Should I try to get in better shape before gynecomastia surgery?

Question

I’m getting gynecomastia surgery(excision and Lipo) in a few months and I’m curious if the final results are affected by overall health. Specifically BMI and chest fat. Would it be beneficial for me to make a hard push to lose a little last minute weight before the surgery? What about lifting weights to increase pec muscle? Would weight loss and/or weight lifting help the surgeon sculpt a better chest?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This all depends on how much weight you plan to lose before surgery.  If less than 10% of your total weight, it may not really matter.  If you plan on losing a "ton" of weight, it is best to discuss with your PS as it may change the treatment plan.  Working out to increase pectoral muscles will not diminish the gynecomastia.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.If you are at your usual weight, loosing weight just before surgery may not be beneficial or necessary. Pectoral exercises will not have an impact on Gynecomastia. Please discuss your concerns with your Plastic Surgeon and follow his protocol. All The Best !

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Although it is always best to eat healthy and try to lose weight prior to liposuction and male breast reduction surgery, however, every surgeon has a different protocol. He or she will discuss this with you during your consultation. I would advise you to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

This is something you should discuss with your surgeon. It is always a good idea to be at a healthy weight that you can maintain before surgery. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

It's alway a great idea to be in healthy shape before surgery. It will help your recovery. I generally recommend getting to weight theat you can easily maintain. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear TexasStrong,
every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. Generally speaking, you should be in better shape before surgery in order to achieve better results. 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

Peter Bray, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. An overall commitment to fitness and a healthy weight will always serve you well in the long run. And the results of toning/building the pecs are typically more visible and satisfying after gynecomastia surgery. But the “little” changes you are able to make in just a few months are unlikely to improve the outcome of your surgery in any significant way. Someone who is truly overweight will do best by achieving a stable, healthy, sustainable weight prior to surgery but such a project will take much longer than a few months. Good luck.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Yes, getting in better shape before gynecomastia surgery can be beneficial for several reasons:
1. Better Surgical Outcomes
•	Improved Skin Elasticity: Regular exercise and a healthy diet can improve skin tone and elasticity, which may help your skin adapt better after surgery.
•	More Defined Results: If you reduce overall body fat, the surgeon can achieve a more sculpted and balanced chest contour.
•	Reduced Risk of Complications: Being in good physical shape can lower the risk of complications like poor wound healing or infection.
2. Easier Recovery
•	Improved Cardiovascular Health: If you’re fitter, your body will likely handle the anesthesia and recovery process better.
•	Stronger Muscles: A strong core and upper body can help with mobility during the recovery period.
3. Long-Term Maintenance
•	Sustainable Results: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle before surgery can make it easier to preserve your results post-surgery.
•	Prevent Fat Re-accumulation: Significant weight gain after surgery can affect the results, as fat can accumulate in the chest area.
4. Psychological Preparation
•	Feeling good about your overall health and fitness can boost your confidence and mental preparedness for surgery and the recovery journey.
What to Consider:
•	Weight Stability: Avoid drastic weight loss right before surgery, as this could affect your body’s natural contours.
•	Set Realistic Goals: You don’t need to be in perfect shape, but reaching a weight and fitness level that feels sustainable is ideal.
•	Consult with Your Surgeon: Share your fitness goals with your surgeon. They can provide guidance on whether to proceed with surgery now or wait until you’re closer to your desired shape.

Eric Desman, MD · Answer

It is not necessary for you to lose weight or get in better shape prior to gynecomastia surgery. It will not impact the outcome of the surgery in general. Lifting weights and increasing pectoralis mass/volume will highlight your new chest contour after surgery, but that is really just personal preference. Good luck.

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question. It's always best to be as close to your ideal body weight or your goal body weight prior to surgery. In and of itself, this reduces the likelihood of anesthetic complications and surgical complications (compared to being overweight or obese). But it isn't ideal to achieve weight loss by doing "crash diets" in the weeks before your surgery. Weight loss should occur months prior to surgery, and you should be at a stable body weight for several months by the time surgery arrives. Working out is an excellent idea prior to surgery and after surgery (once you are cleared by your plastic surgeon). I hope this answers your question. Best of luck!Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Should I try to get in better shape before gynecomastia surgery?

Answers (11)