Any surgical procedure brings with it a tremendous amount of anxiety and anticipation. For men, gynecomastia correction may trigger even more stress, as the surgery is rarely discussed, and may be a “secret” shared only with his closest family and friends. Pre-surgery jitters are common, and may be difficult to shake off, but with a few self-care techniques, this normal anxiety can be manageable. Be kind to yourself and work through your nervous energy; the results from your male breast reduction will be worth it. Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery has a few tips for working through gynecomastia surgery fear.
Get Plenty of Rest
While stress can make it difficult to sleep, too little rest will increase your stress level. Break this cycle and focus on getting a full eight hours of sleep every night the week before your surgery. Skip the late meal, caffeine after dinner, and remove electronics from the bedroom – promoting a peaceful night’s sleep. When you are well rested, you will think clearer, and thus be less anxious about your upcoming surgery.
Communicate with Your Surgeon
The best place to turn for help preparing for your upcoming male breast reduction is the operating surgeon’s office. He/she is experienced in this technique and can give you all of the realistic “dos and don’ts”for the pre-oop and post-op phases. Never worry about asking silly questions, as your plastic surgeon’s office is accustomed to nervous patients, and will be ready to help calm your jitters. Remember, no one can help unless you ask.
Research (The Right Way)
Understanding all you can about gynecomastia correction can make you feel more confident in the surgical process. However, the Internet is full of unfounded horror stories, fake news, and confusing medical jargon that only compounds fears. Acquaint yourself with all of the information provided by your board certified surgeon, and ask him/her to clarify anything you do not understand. Leave the dramatic online stories for someone else’s entertainment.
Go Out and Exercise
Whenever you start to feel overwhelmed by the thought of anesthesia, potential pain, or the recovery process, try taking your mind off through exercise. Getting active will increase your brain’s production of serotonin and dopamine, chemicals that help to create a happy mood. Working out also boosts endorphins, making you feel good and clearing your head so there is no more stewing over surgical “what ifs”.
Accept Support from Family and Friends
Going through the surgical process alone is difficult. Take advantage of your significant other, a close friend, or valued family member. Although gynecomastia may be hard to talk about, your closest confident will understand your trepidation and motivate you through this time of anxiety. Simply talking out your fears can do wonders to quell nerves. Don’t feel like there is anyone you can open up to? Use your line of communication with your surgeon; he/she may even recommend a local support group or past patients you can speak with.
Begin with a Gynecomastia Consultation at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery
At Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery, we want each surgical procedure to be as stress-free as possible. During you gynecomastia consultation, we’ll provide all of the necessary information, and walk you through the process, step-by-step. If ever you feel overwhelmed, contact our office for assistance with your concerns. Call Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery for more information on the male breast reduction procedure at (281) 668-7370.