Preparing for gender-affirming surgery is a major life decision. It’s not just about what happens in the operating room; it’s about what happens afterward—your recovery and how you’ll feel in your body. You deserve to feel great about your surgery, not just relieved it’s done. Asking the right questions before surgery can help ensure a smoother recovery and a better long-term outcome.
tl;dr: Before your surgery, ask your surgeon these five questions to ensure you're fully prepared, including what physical therapy or rehabilitation you'll need afterward.
1. Will I Need Physical Therapy or Rehab After Surgery?
This one is huge, and yet it’s often overlooked. Many surgeons assume you’ll be fine after surgery without structured rehab. The truth is, you might need help with mobility, flexibility, and even scar tissue management, depending on the surgery. Physical therapy (PT) isn’t just for people recovering from injuries—it can help you regain strength and improve your overall well-being after surgery.
Pro tip: Even if your surgeon doesn’t recommend PT, consider asking a wellness center (like OutWellness, ahem) about post-op recovery plans. PT can make a world of difference.
2. What’s the Expected Recovery Timeline, and How Can I Prepare?
Every gender-affirming surgery comes with its own recovery timeline. Chest masculinization, for instance, has a different recovery process than bottom surgery. Ask your surgeon what to expect day by day and week by week. This will help you plan time off work, ask for help at home, and mentally prepare for the recovery process.
Want to dive deeper into the specifics of recovery, especially for top surgery? Check out our detailed guide on everything you need to know about top surgery before taking the leap.
Pro Tip: Knowing the timeline helps you avoid any unnecessary panic if things seem slow. Plus, it lets you schedule those all-important Netflix binges accordingly.
3. What Type of Scarring Should I Expect, and How Can I Minimize It?
Let’s be real—scarring is an inevitable part of surgery. But some scars heal more nicely than others, and you should know what to expect. Ask your surgeon about scar management techniques, and don’t be shy about asking how to care for your scars post-op. They might recommend special creams, massage techniques, or even silicone sheets to reduce the appearance of scars over time.
Need help with recovery? OutWellness offers free or sliding-scale PT services. Reach out to learn more.
4. How Will This Surgery Impact My Long-Term Physical Health?
It’s essential to know how your body might change long-term after surgery. This question is about more than just scars—it’s about muscle function, strength, and range of motion. For example, after chest masculinization surgery, you might notice a difference in your ability to stretch or lift weights. Knowing what changes to expect can help you adjust your fitness routine accordingly, so you’re not caught off guard.
Pro Tip: Talk to your surgeon about specific exercises or activities that might be affected and whether you’ll need PT to rebuild strength in those areas.
5. What Follow-Up Care Will I Need, and Who Will Provide It?
Follow-up care is really important, and every surgeon has their own approach. Be sure to ask how many visits you’ll need, what they’ll cover, and whether you’ll see your surgeon or someone else. It’s also helpful to know what signs to keep an eye on so you can feel more confident about your recovery.
Pro Tip: Don’t assume everything’s on cruise control once the surgery is done. Keeping up with your care afterward is super important for staying healthy and feeling good long-term.
Why These Questions Matter
Gender-affirming surgery is life-changing, and you deserve the best possible care before, during, and after the procedure. These questions are your chance to advocate for your body and make sure you’re fully prepared for every aspect of your journey.
Asking these five essential questions can help ensure you get the recovery support you need, including PT and ongoing care. Your body is worth it!
Want personalized post-op care? Talk to us about sliding-scale services and how we can support your recovery.
Contact Us
At OutWellness ATX, we’re committed to supporting you through every step of your recovery journey. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team. We’re here to help you achieve a smooth and effective recovery.
