So you’re having surgery

a little guide

This is the thing I’ve learned from writing TBoy Topics, my other work, and my lived/shared experiences with friends (I know SEVERAL people who are either about to have surgery, recently had surgery, etc).

Trans stuff has wider applications. And over the years, I’ve known folks who’ve needed to get anal/pelvic floor surgery, OB/GYN-related concerns, and have had surgeries all over their backs and legs. Cis women who have had mastectomies or reductions, or cis men who’ve had gynecomastia surgery. And I have decided to gather info for the people. Awareness, I’m already helping with. The piece I wish I could do is make it more accessible and affordable.

From Free to $$$$, here’s some of what’s out there for healing (support needs may vary, some people need assistance in every area, others need limited help.

MOVEMENT/REHABILITATION

• Keeping an eye out for compensatory use across all other non-operated areas to avoid the need for further intervention later = FREE

• Stretching (at home, once cleared)= FREE

• Grabby guys (link to a cheap example)= $

• Stretching (assisted, at a place like Stretchlab)= $$

• Physical therapy = $ to $$$$ depending on coverage and how frequently you go.

  https://thetranstrainer.com/ is a specialist who is more in the $/$$ range if you break down the weekly cost, but it’s one upfront payment. I also think there’s areas worth paying attention to, like if you were intubated, used a mobility aid, etc.

• Alexander Technique (not just for the theater queens anymore!) If you want to navigate your body and get adjusted to it. This is the one!= $$ to $$$ depending on where you go/how often

• Mobility and accessibility devices $ to $$$$

LIFE IN RECOVERY

• Having loved ones help out, or being self-reliant to the best of your ability= FREE

• Extra clothes/Toiletries= $ to $$

• Hiring cleaning/laundry help = $$ to $$$$

• Hiring a caregiver (depending on coverage)= $$ to $$$$

• Meal prepping before/meal train support (saves $)

• Ordering takeout= $$ to $$$$

• Compression and other modified clothes = $ to $$$

• Therapy= $ to $$$$

PAIN AND SWELLING MANAGEMENT

• Rest= FREE

• Hydrating= $?

• Hot and Cold packs, as recommended by doctors = $

• medication and Supplements, as recommended by doctors- I would ask about bromelain and arnica, especially, as well as probiotics, fiber, etc.= $ to $$$?

• Pillows (Know your pillows. Wedge? Mastectomy? Donut? There are so many pillows).= $ to $$

• Lymphatic Drainage= $$ to $$$$.

• scar care- for hair-bearing areas, I strongly recommend gel, but otherwise, silicone strips for the scars are AMAZING= $$

• Acupuncture etc= $$ to $$$$. I go to Dr. Hal De Longchamp L.Ac DOM and his whole crew.

SENDING HEALING, I’m nearly at the big 12 week mark where most restrictions soften. More topics soon!