Navigating Post-Op: The Role of Compression Garments in Gynecomastia Surgery

Hello, friends! It’s Dr. Vishal Purohit, your trusted MCh Plastic Surgeon in Jaipur, here to share some wisdom about post-operative care after gynecomastia surgery. One question I often encounter is, “Will I need to wear a compression garment after the procedure?” The simple answer is ‘Yes,’ but let’s get into the why and how.

1. What is a Compression Garment?

A compression garment is a piece of clothing designed to apply pressure to specific areas of the body to aid in healing after surgery. It’s typically made from a tight, stretchy fabric that moulds to your body, providing support to the surgical area. It may be like a vest or wrap-around chest binder.

2. Why Wear a Compression Garment After Gynecomastia Surgery?

Post-surgical compression garments play an integral role in recovery. Here are some benefits:

• Reduces Swelling: Compression helps limit the body’s natural swelling response after surgery, promoting faster healing.
• Minimizes Bruising: By providing compression to the skin, these garments can minimize bruising.
• Improves Skin Retraction: Compression assists in homogenous skin retraction, helping your skin conform to its new contours after surgery.

3. How Long Should You Wear It?

The duration you’ll need to wear the compression garment varies depending on the extent of your surgery and how quickly you heal. Generally, I recommend patients wear their garment continuously for the first 5 to 6 weeks, only removing it for showering. After this initial period, you may only need to wear it half of the time or less. We’ll discuss this in detail during your post-op follow-ups.

4. Tips for Wearing Your Compression Garment

• Ensure Proper Fit: Your garment should be snug but not overly tight. It should provide consistent compression without causing discomfort or impeding circulation.
• Cleanliness Matters: Maintain hygiene by washing your garment regularly. You might want to consider getting a second garment for when the other one is being washed.
• Stay Committed: It’s important to wear the garment as directed for optimal results. Don’t be tempted to discard it early.

In conclusion, a compression garment is your trusty sidekick in the recovery process after gynecomastia surgery. While it may seem like a small detail, its role in promoting healing and improving results is crucial.

Remember, every step in your surgical journey, big or small, is geared towards achieving the best possible result. If you have more queries or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to guide you every step of the way!

Dr. Vishal Purohit