Getting ready for your gynaecomastia surgery. This guide covers everything you need to gather and prepare in the weeks before your procedure.
Welcome to Your Recovery Hub
The Recovery Hub is designed to support you through every stage of your gynaecomastia surgery journey. From preparation through to your final results, you'll find practical advice, realistic expectations, and reassurance along the way.
Each stage of this guide will help you understand what's normal, what to watch for, and how to optimise your recovery.
Before Your Surgery
Medical Preparation
Stop smoking at least two weeks before your procedure. Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of complications.
Discontinue blood-thinning medications as directed by your surgeon. This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo.
Provide a complete medical history including all medications, supplements, and any previous surgeries.
Attend your pre-operative assessment if required, to ensure you're fit for surgery.
Practical Arrangements
Arrange for someone to collect you from the hospital. You cannot drive or take public transport home after a general anaesthetic.
Ensure someone can stay with you for at least the first 24-48 hours after surgery.
Take time off work - plan for 1 week for desk jobs, longer for physical work.
Prepare your recovery space with extra pillows to sleep elevated, easy-to-prepare meals, and entertainment.
Stock up on groceries - focus on easy-to-prepare, nutritious meals and plenty of hydration.
Recovery Supplies Checklist
Gather these items before your surgery so everything is ready when you return home:
Essential Items
Compression vest - your surgeon will provide this, but check if you need to arrange collection beforehand
Loose, button-up shirts - avoid pulling clothing over your head for the first week
Comfortable pajamas or loungewear - soft fabrics that won't irritate your chest
Extra pillows - to help you sleep elevated and reduce swelling
Ice packs or frozen peas - wrapped in a towel, these can help with discomfort in the first 72 hours
Useful Supplies
Gentle body wash - for showering once cleared by your surgeon
Clean towels - soft ones for gentle drying around the chest area
Antibacterial wipes - for keeping the compression vest fresh between washes
Drinking bottles with straws - makes staying hydrated easier while resting
Optional but Helpful
Arnica tablets or cream - may help reduce bruising (though scientific evidence is limited, it's harmless)
Entertainment - books, tablets, streaming services for your recovery time
Front-fastening robe - easy to put on and comfortable for moving around the house
Important Note About Compression Vests
The compression vest is the most important item in your recovery. It helps reduce swelling, supports your healing chest contour, and improves your final results. You'll wear it 24/7 for the first few weeks, so ensure it's properly fitted.
Mental Preparation
Understanding what to expect emotionally is just as important as physical preparation:
Your chest will look swollen and bruised immediately after surgery. This is completely normal and will improve steadily.
The compression vest may feel tight and uncomfortable at first, but you'll quickly get used to it.
Final results take 3-6 months to fully reveal as swelling subsides and tissues settle.
Taking regular photos from the same angles can help you track your progress when day-to-day changes seem imperceptible.
Most patients feel an immediate boost in confidence, even during the early recovery phase.
Pro Tip
Set up your phone to take weekly photos from the same angles in the same lighting. This "recovery diary" will be invaluable for tracking your progress, especially when changes happen so gradually you might not notice them day to day.
The Day Before Surgery
Your surgeon's team will provide specific instructions, but generally:
Follow fasting instructions carefully (usually nothing to eat or drink from midnight)
Shower and wash thoroughly on the morning of surgery
Avoid applying lotions, deodorant, or cologne to your chest area
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that's easy to remove