How important is it to have a compression garment after gynecomastia surgery?

Wearing a compression garment after gynecomastia surgery is the most important part of the recovery process.  The garment helps prevent fluid accumulations, assists with keeping the skin smooth while it is contracting, and adds an element of comfort to the recovery process.  I have patients wear the garment full time for 6 weeks (with a few breaks to wash it). 

Thank you for your question. Surgeons typically have their own post op protocols. I feel that an under armor shirt does not offer enough compression. My gynecomastia patient are put in real compression garments for 6 weeks. Good luckDrMaz

Dear steel_panther,compression garments prevent swelling and accelerate healing process. Every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

For my patients it is mandatory. I have my patients wear the vest 24/7 for 6 weeks only removing it to shower . There are several reasons the vest helps aid with healing, such as; it helps the skin to contract, increases the blood flow, it helps to prevent fluid collection, controls the amount of swelling, decreases post operative pain and helps the chest tissues to bind together.

Compression after surgery is very important after gynecomastia correction, It helps to minimize the swelling and restore the contour to the chest before the swelling sets in too much. Usually I advise patients to wear the compression full time for 4-6 weeks before slowly weaning out of it.

Compression amount and time depends on the volume of gynecomastia removed and if liposuction was used as well.  Once the two layers of tissue have reconnected, you can usually minimize the use of compression garments.  I suggest 10 days of compression after the drains have been removed.  The compression has to be substantial, however, and under armor usually is not sufficient for larger reductions.

Great question and first, congratulations on getting through your gynecomastia surgery! It’s totally normal to have questions at this stage, especially around compression, since it plays a critical role in healing.
How Important Is Compression After Gynecomastia Surgery?
Very important. Compression garments are not just for comfort—they directly support your healing process in several ways:
Why You Need Compression
1. Reduces Swelling (Edema)
Compression helps prevent excessive fluid build-up in the chest area. Even though your drains are out, fluid can still accumulate.
2. Helps Skin Retraction
After liposuction and gland removal, your skin needs to re-drape smoothly over your new contour. Compression helps guide this process.
3. Minimizes Bruising & Speeds Up Healing
Gentle, consistent pressure improves circulation and helps bruises fade faster.
4. Improves Final Results
Without compression, irregularities like waviness, folds, or slight asymmetries may become more visible.
5. Supports the Surgical Site
Keeps everything in place so your body can heal in a stable environment.
Compression Options: Under Armour vs. Surgical Vest
Your surgeon recommended a tight Under Armour-style top, which some surgeons do suggest—but this only works if it applies consistent, firm pressure across the entire treated area. If it feels too loose or like it’s not “hugging” your chest, it may not be doing enough.
On the other hand, a proper post-surgical compression vest:
• Is specifically designed for chest surgery
• Usually has adjustable hook-and-eye closures or zippers
• Applies even, firm pressure to the entire chest and sometimes upper abdomen
If you feel like your current garment isn't compressing well enough, that's worth addressing. Some swelling and looseness are expected at first, but if it feels like no compression or only mild compression, you might benefit from switching to a proper surgical vest for the next few weeks.
How Long Should You Wear It?
Most surgeons recommend:
• 2–4 weeks full-time wear (24/7 except showering)
• Then another 2–4 weeks part-time wear (like during the day or when active)
It is important to discuss and always follow your surgeon’s specific timeline, everyone’s healing plan is slightly different and your surgeon is most familiar with your surgery and body.

Most surgeons recommend formal medical liposuction garments for several weeks, sometimes up to 3-4 months, for optimal compression of the chest after gynecomastia surgery. Retail garments like Under Armour don't generally deliver the amount of pressure to the surface as surgical garments, so most surgeons will tell patients to use the proper garment initially and possibly use retail ones as spares when laundering the main garment, or as a temporary substitute when going out for short social events. Check with your surgeon regarding specific recommendations.

I usually recommend a more compressive garment than just an under armor shirt.  Some doctors do not even have patients where garments.

The vest is extremely important and you should follow your surgeon's instructions.  I have patients wear the vest for 4 weeks.  You need the skin to shrink, stick back down to muscle, prevent fluid collections and create a nice flat contour. The recovery matters as much as the surgery!