When the breast tissue in men becomes bigger, it is medically called Gynecomastia. It is mostly caused by hormone imbalance as a result of puberty, or side effects of some medications. Surgery is one of the treatments available to get rid of this condition. Just like any other surgery, some preparations must be made before you can have it. Here are the dos and don’ts before male breast reduction surgery. Also, check here for the best plastic surgeon.
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Do your due diligence on your surgeon
Before going ahead with the surgery, you should make sure that you do your research on the surgeon or the surgical center you have selected to perform the surgery. You want to ensure that your surgeon is board-certified and is experienced to know the reasons why your breasts are bigger. Due to the certifications and experience required to be board certified, you can rest assured that you are in safe hands.
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Do not take any blood thinners
Blood thinners are anticoagulant agents that usually prevent the coagulation of blood and in turn, extend the time it takes for blood to clot. Common blood thinners are drugs containing aspirin and alcohol. Make sure you avoid them at least 10 days before your surgery as they can increase your chance of having skin bruises and bleeding.
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Do all the necessary tests before the surgery
Before having male breast reduction surgery, ensure that you have completed all the necessary lab tests you are expected to do so that your surgeon can spot any possible complications that may hinder you from having a successful surgery. Some of these tests include an electrocardiogram (EKG), mammogram, and any other test your surgeon may require you to do.
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Do not smoke before your surgery
If you are seriously considering going forward with male breast reduction surgery, then you should also stop smoking at least two weeks prior to the surgery. Smoking increases your chances of respiratory issues like difficulty breathing and pneumonia. Also, nicotine has been shown to harm the healing process of the body.
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Update your surgeon on all your medications
Not only blood thinners can cause complications during male breast reduction surgery. Other drugs can also complicate the surgery. Any other medications you take alongside your doctor’s prescription should be made known to your surgeon. This will make your surgeon be able to offer advice on what to continue and what to stop.
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Do not eat or drink before your surgery
Just like any other surgery, you should not have anything to eat or drink for at least six hours before male breast reduction surgery. This may interact with the anesthetic and cause you to vomit. It is common for the vomit to get to your lungs and cause breathing complications. Your surgeon can assist you with more details if you need them.
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Shave your hair
It is important to shave your armpit and chest area before having a male breast reduction surgery. This will help to clear any bacteria on the hair that can cause any possible infection to the area with the incision.