Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Fasting:

• Nothing to eat or drink—including water, mints, or gum—for 8 hours before surgery.

Transportation:

• Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for 1–2 days after surgery. Rideshares (Uber, Lyft, taxis) are not permitted.
• If a caregiver is not arranged, surgery may need to be rescheduled for your safety.

Medications:

• Stop aspirin, NSAIDs, herbal supplements, and weight-loss medications as directed.
• Discuss blood-pressure, diabetes, and psychiatric medications with your surgeon to confirm which to continue.
• Avoid nicotine for 4 weeks before and after surgery.
• Reduce or avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks before and after surgery.
• Avoid ADD/ADHD medications the day before surgery and consult your surgeon if taking Contrave, Ozempic, Wegovy, or similar medications.

Day of Surgery:

• Shower with soap; avoid applying lotions, deodorant, or perfume afterward.
• Remove all jewelry and piercings.
• Do not shave the surgical area within 3 days of surgery.
• Wear loose, front-opening clothing (such as a button-up or zip-front top).

Suggested Supplies:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Laxative and stool softener (for use with narcotic medication)
• Arnica Montana (Sinnech) regimen for swelling
• Comfortable, front-closing surgical garment (you will receive one after surgery)

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Pain & Nausea:

• Take Tylenol for mild pain; avoid NSAIDs unless approved.
• Use prescribed narcotic medication as directed and pair with a laxative and stool softener to prevent constipation.
• Zofran (Ondansetron) may be prescribed for nausea.
• Complete your full course of antibiotics to prevent infection.

Activity & Mobility:

• Begin gentle walking soon after surgery to promote circulation and prevent blood clots (DVT).
• Avoid lifting more than 5 lbs or raising your arms above shoulder height for the first 1–2 weeks.
• Light activities can usually resume at 2–3 weeks; avoid strenuous exercise and chest workouts for 4–6 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.

Sleep:

• Sleep on your back with your head and shoulders elevated at 30–40 degrees (2–3 pillows). Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach until cleared by your surgeon.

Compression Garment:

You will be provided with a supportive chest garment after surgery

• Wear it continuously (except for brief daily breaks) for 4–6 weeks.
• Ensure it is snug but not overly tight.
• Consider purchasing a second garment for alternating between washes.

Incision & Nipple Care:

• Your incisions are sealed with medical glue or tape that will naturally detach as healing progresses.
• Stitches are dissolvable and do not require removal.
• Keep the area clean and dry; you may shower 24–48 hours after surgery unless otherwise instructed.
• Avoid applying lotions or creams to incisions until cleared.
• If you have nipple grafts, avoid direct pressure and keep dressings dry and intact until changed by your surgeon.

What to Expect:

• Swelling and bruising peak within the first week and gradually subside over 4–6 weeks.
• Temporary tightness or heaviness across the chest is normal and improves with time.
• Sensation changes or numbness are common and may take months to stabilize.
• Emotional ups and downs are normal during recovery—healing from gender-affirming surgery is both physical and emotional. Support is available if needed.