Can I wear spanx after gynecomastia surgery? (Photo)

Question

Hello, I had gynecomastia surgery on March 20th. My surgeon told me that I only needed to wear a tight tensor bandage for 3 weeks around my chest. Everywhere I am reading says to wear a compression vest no matter what. I bought a compression vest and it's way too tight. I have too much stomache fat and it's too uncomfortable. I bought spanx and attached pics. It more comfortable on my stomache and really tight on my chest. The ripple you see is my bandaid. Can I use this?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Our patients are required to wear a compression garment for the a few weeks following their #Gynecomastia surgery. The #compression garment helps to reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly you will heal.We recommend it not be removed, at all, until the second or third day after the surgery. After that, we suggest they feel free to temporarily remove the #garment for showering or laundering only. We encourage our patients to maintain circumferential pressure for 4-6 weeks, but they may switch to an exercise compression garment when advised.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

I recommend my patients wear their garments for a minimum of 3 weeks if not a lot of redundant skin following liposuction male breast reduction to a maximum of 6 weeks. To be effective the garment needs to fit snug but not too tight as to cause pressure problems (inspect your skin if discomfort and when skin is exposed), or prevent you from sleeping. As the edema resolves it is common for patients to switch to a smaller garment that fits - A Spanx type garment would work rather than ordering one or paying more at your doctor;'s office.Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia Reduction) by liposuction requires compression garments for three main reasons:it restricts the amount of edema that forms and hastens its resolution by mechanical pressureIt decreases the amount of bruisingIt assists the loose skin in retracting or shrinking

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

You should ask your surgeon about this as they may have different guidelines. I generally advise wearing a compression garment however not all surgeons do. The garment should be snug but not so tight that you have trouble breathing.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Each surgeon has his or her own guidelines for post operative care. Consult with your surgeon as he or she understands the scope of the surgery and the specifics about you.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the gynecomastia surgery. In my practice, the garment you are wearing in the photograph would suffice nicely. However, out of respect for your plastic surgeon who knows your situation best (and is ultimately responsible for your care) best to run your questions/pictures by him/her. Best wishes.

Can I wear spanx after gynecomastia surgery? (Photo)

Answers (6)