How Much Pain Can I Expect After Top Surgery?

Getting top surgery is a welcome milestone for many transgender patients. But like most surgical procedures, this procedure raises questions and concerns which your doctor should answer before moving forward with this decision. One of the more common questions we hear is, “Is recovery painful?”

First Stage of Recovery

Most patients tolerate chest reconstruction recovery well. After surgery, there will be some bruising, swelling, and discomfort as there is with all types of surgery. Your chest will be bandaged and covered in a compression vest for support and to reduce inflammation.
You should have filled antibiotic and pain meds before the procedure. Take them as prescribed during recovery. These will reduce the risk of infection and get ahead of any pain that follows the operation. Wearing the compression garment for a few weeks will minimize swelling and help the incisions heal. There may also be drains placed in the incisions to let excess fluids escape.
Most patients return home on the day of surgery. You will need a responsible adult to help care for you during the first few days after your operation. Some patients opt for a home-care nurse to empty their drain reservoirs, check dressings, and monitor their recovery process.

What Does Post Top Surgery Pain Feel Like?

As stated above, it’s vital to get ahead of the pain after surgery. Patients in recovery tell us that in the beginning, the pain is most intense. It feels like:
– Internal aching like a bruised muscle
– A stabbing sensation
– Pressure
– Numbness
– Several pinpricks, like getting a tattoo
Individuals who prepare for surgery with a healthy diet and regular exercise are best equipped to tolerate any post-operation discomfort.

Manage Your Pain

It’s best to be open with your surgeon and nurses about what pain you are experiencing and its severity during the recovery process. This period is not the time to be stoic. When you feel pain at the incision site or elsewhere, communicate it to your surgical team. The information will help them understand your healing progress and how they can do to make you more comfortable.
We cannot stress this enough. Stay ahead of your pain! A common error many patients make is waiting too long to take their pain meds. When the pain starts, it will take much more medicine to get it under control. Stay with the schedule prescribed by your surgeon. Your careful compliance will keep your discomfort level manageable.
Patients who deal with chronic pain are more likely to experience discomfort after surgery because of the additional trauma. These patients also take medication to manage their pain and may have become more tolerant of prescribed meds. This tolerance makes post-surgery pain more difficult to manage. Your surgeon may need to consult with other health care professions to effectively manage your pain.

Learn More

If you are considering top surgery and want to learn more managing the pain during recovery, schedule a consultation by email or call Restora Austin today at 512-371-8817.