Top-Surgery Prep & Healing Tips
Top surgery is a life-changing procedure for many transmasc individuals, offering a sense of alignment with one’s identity and body. However, proper care during the recovery period is crucial to ensure optimal healing and long-term satisfaction. Below I’ve jotted down some of my thoughts on things that I felt were helpful leading up to and healing from my surgery.
Preparing for Recovery
Before your surgery, set up a recovery-friendly environment:
Comfortable Resting Area: Arrange a cozy spot with plenty of pillows to keep your upper body elevated, which reduces swelling. In my case, my scar extended fairly high up into my armpits, so as silly as it may look, I found having a mastectomy pillow helped significantly in reducing discomfort caused by having my arms rubbing up against my fresh scars.
Stock Up on Supplies: Gather essentials like gauze, medical tape, pain medications, antibacterial soap, and scar treatment products as recommended by your surgeon.
Plan for Assistance: Enlist a friend or family member to help you with daily tasks for the first week.
Prepare you environment: If you’re a bit stubborn like me, and prefer to be at least partially self-sufficient during your recovery process, consider preparing your recovery area by doing things such as bringing plates or cups that may be higher up to a lower surface, installing a bidet onto your toilet, or purchasing wipes for when showering may be difficult for the first couple of days.
Easy-to-Wear Clothing: Think about the types of outfits you’ll have immediately following surgery and for at least the first week. Generally, loose clothing like sweatpants will be easier (and cozier) for the first few days, and loose, button-up shirts will be significantly easier to get in and out of.
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Disclaimer: I am not a professional, so you should first and foremost follow your surgeon’s instructions. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines on how to care for your incisions, manage drainage tubes (if applicable), and change dressings.
Manage Pain: Take prescribed medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help, if approved by your surgeon.
Limit Movement: Avoid lifting heavy objects, raising your arms above shoulder level, or strenuous activity during the first few weeks.
Wound Care and Hygiene
Keep Incisions Clean: Use mild, antibacterial soap to gently clean the incision area. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Avoid Soaking: No baths, swimming, or soaking in water until your surgeon clears you.
Check for Signs of Infection: Redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge around the incisions could indicate infection. Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice these symptoms.
Ointments: My surgeon recommended using aquaphor on the scars for the first few months as they can dry out quickly. I was instructed to keep the nipples continuously moist for the first 2-4 weeks (until the scabs have completely fallen off) using an antibacterial ointment such as Neosporin. During this time it’s also important to keep the nipples completely covered using some sort of bandage. I was recommended just regular bandaids, but after a couple of days of continuous use of those, I found that they were starting to tear off my skin surrounding my nipples. I eventually found these bandages, which felt much more comfortable and caused me zero pain.
Emotional and Mental Health
Give Yourself Grace: Healing is not just physical but emotional. Take time to process your feelings and celebrate this step in your journey. It’s also okay if you don’t feel a lot immediately after (or ever). It personally took me a while to fully connect emotionally that I had had top surgery and that my body looked a lot different than it had for most of my life. Whatever your process might look like, it’s completely normal!
Connect with Support Groups: Online and in-person communities for transmasc individuals can provide advice, encouragement, and understanding.
Seek Professional Support: If you’re struggling with post-surgery emotions, a therapist experienced in trans health can help.
Returning to Normal Activities
Exercise Gradually: Light walking is great for circulation, but avoid strenuous workouts until cleared by your surgeon.
Listen to Your Body: If something feels painful or uncomfortable, stop and rest.
Follow Up with Your Surgeon: Attend all post-operative appointments to monitor your healing progress.
Final Thoughts
Top surgery is a profound step in affirming your identity. With proper care and patience, you can ensure a smooth recovery and enjoy the full benefits of this transformative procedure. Remember, every person’s healing journey is unique, so listen to your body and reach out to your healthcare provider with any concerns.
Take it one day at a time, and celebrate each milestone along the way!
