One week after gynaecomastia surgery. You're likely feeling much better and can return to light desk work while continuing to wear your compression vest.
Welcome to Week One
Congratulations on making it through the first week. You should be feeling significantly better now, with less discomfort and more energy. Many patients are surprised by how quickly they feel back to normal - though it's important to remember you're still healing internally.
What's Normal Right Now
At one week post-op, you should notice:
Physical Improvements
Reduced discomfort - you may no longer need prescription pain medication
Less swelling - though some swelling will persist for weeks, the initial severe swelling should be improving
Fading bruising - any bruising should be starting to yellow and fade
More energy - you're sleeping better and feeling more like yourself
Greater chest definition - even with swelling, you can see the improvement from your previous chest contour
Better mobility - movement feels easier and less restricted
What May Still Be Present
Some tightness across the chest
Residual swelling, especially in the evening
Minor bruising or discoloration
Numbness or altered sensation in the nipple area (this can take months to fully resolve)
Fatigue after activity
The Compression Vest - Your Essential Ally
You're probably getting used to the compression vest by now, but it's crucial to maintain consistent wear:
Why It's So Important
Reduces swelling - consistent pressure helps your body reabsorb fluid more efficiently
Shapes your results - helps skin adhere smoothly to your new chest contour
Prevents fluid accumulation - reduces the risk of seroma (fluid collection)
Provides support - protects healing tissues from strain
Improves final outcome - patients who wear their vest consistently tend to have better results
Wearing Schedule
Continue 24/7 wear for at least 3-4 weeks total
You can remove it for showering (if cleared by your surgeon)
Some surgeons allow brief removal (15-30 minutes) for washing the vest
Always put it back on immediately after your shower or washing
Don't Cheat on the Vest
We know it's tempting to take breaks from the compression vest, especially as you feel better. But these first few weeks are critical for achieving optimal results. Patients who don't wear their vest consistently often experience more swelling, longer recovery, and potentially less refined results.
Returning to Work
Most patients can return to desk work or light duties at the one-week mark:
Office/Desk Work
You can typically return if your job doesn't involve physical labor
Wear the compression vest under a loose shirt - it's discreet
Take breaks - don't overdo it on your first day back
Avoid overtime - stick to your regular hours and rest when you get home
Stay hydrated - keep a water bottle at your desk
Physical Work
Not yet - jobs involving lifting, manual labor, or overhead work need more time
Discuss with your surgeon - they may clear you at 2-3 weeks depending on your job requirements
Consider light duties - see if your employer can accommodate modified tasks temporarily
Activity Guidelines
You have more freedom this week, but it's still important to be cautious:
What You Can Do
Light walking - daily walks are encouraged and beneficial
Gentle stretching - of lower body only, avoiding upper body strain
Light household tasks - cooking, light tidying (no vacuuming or heavy cleaning)
Driving - you can likely resume if you're not taking prescription pain medication and can move comfortably (check your insurance policy)
Showering - if cleared by your surgeon
What to Avoid
Lifting anything over 5kg - this includes shopping bags, children, or gym weights
Exercise - no gym, running, swimming, or sports yet
Alcohol - can increase swelling and interfere with healing
Smoking - seriously impairs healing and increases complication risk
Wound Care and Hygiene
Your incisions are healing well by now, but they still need care:
Showering
Usually permitted after 48-72 hours (follow your surgeon's specific instructions)
Use lukewarm water - not too hot
Let water run over incisions - don't scrub or rub them
Pat dry gently with a clean towel
Reapply dressings if instructed
Put compression vest back on immediately
What to Avoid
Soaking in baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools
Direct shower spray on incisions (let water run gently over them)
Applying lotions, creams, or ointments unless prescribed
Sun exposure to the chest area
Managing Expectations
At one week, you can see improvement, but remember:
Swelling Fluctuates
It's completely normal for swelling to be worse in the evening and better in the morning. You may also notice swelling increases slightly after activity. This is your body's natural response and will improve with time and consistent compression vest wear.
Your chest is still swollen - it will take several weeks to see your true results
There may be some asymmetry as swelling resolves at different rates on each side - this usually evens out
Numbness or altered sensation is common and can persist for months
Results continue to improve for 3-6 months as everything settles
Diet and Lifestyle
Maintain a balanced diet - protein helps healing; vitamins support tissue repair
Stay hydrated - aim for 2 litres of water daily
Limit salt - high sodium intake can worsen swelling
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications unless approved by your surgeon
Consider vitamin supplements - vitamin C and zinc may support healing (check with your surgeon first)
Looking Ahead
Over the next few weeks, you'll continue to see improvements:
Swelling will gradually reduce
Your chest definition will become more apparent
You'll regain full range of motion
You'll be able to resume more normal activities
Your confidence will continue to grow as you see your new chest contour emerging