Previously, we discussed How to Get the Most Out of Your Surgical Consultation. But what about the actual surgery? Regardless of the gender-affirming procedure you are undergoing, being physically and mentally ready is crucial.
Here’s how to ensure you’re fully prepared for your surgery and ready to begin your transformative journey:
Before Your Surgery
Follow Your Pre-Operative Instructions
After consulting with your doctor, you may be asked to undergo a pre-operative medical evaluation, including blood and urine lab tests, a chest x-ray, and an electrocardiogram to test your heart function. Your surgeon may request these tests to ensure you are in optimal shape for your surgery. Your insurance or surgeon may also require one or two letters from certified mental health professionals to approve the surgery. You can check with your surgeon’s office about any requirements before committing to a surgery date.
The more your surgeon knows about your health status, the better. Inform your surgeon in advance of your surgery about any medications or supplements you are taking in addition to previous surgeries. You may be asked to pause taking certain medications before the procedure. Knowing your medical history, including previous surgeries, can help your surgeon suggest techniques that will help you accomplish your goals while staying safe.
Physical Preparedness
Your surgeon will make recommendations to you to help you prepare for your surgery, which may include dietary changes such as increasing protein intake through food or supplementation. Patients preparing for surgery should hydrate often, get plenty of rest, and exercise to help build stamina and energy for recovery. If you smoke, your surgeon will ask you to quit at least one month before your surgery date.
Mental and Emotional Preparation
After your initial consultation, reflect on what you discussed with your surgeon to ensure you fully understand the surgical process, recovery times, and potential complications. Remember, we are here to help you navigate this process and are happy to help answer any questions you may have.
Surgery can come with a lot of emotions and having a solid support system and practicing relaxation techniques can help significantly to reduce anxiety, manage stress, and keep you positive going into your surgery date.
Home and Work Preparation
Your post-surgery comfort is equally as crucial as your pre-surgery preparedness!
Create a comfortable recovery space at home with essentials like medications, pillows, and entertainment before your surgery. Don’t be afraid to ask a loved one or friend to help you with shopping for recovery supplies, re-arranging furniture to make it easier to navigate at home post-surgery or driving you home from surgery. Keep in mind that you cannot drive post-surgery or while on narcotic medications, so transportation arrangements must be made in advance.
You may also want to plan and prepare several nutritious, high protein, easy-to-make meals before heading into surgery. You will thank yourself later!
Logistical Arrangements
Complete all necessary paperwork before your surgery date to ensure you are legally and financially prepared. If you have questions about financial planning, our financial team can work with you.
Recovering from surgery can take time. Ask your surgeon what the typical recovery time is for your procedure so you can schedule time off from work to rest.
The Day Before Your Surgery
We will provide you with detailed instructions about how to prepare for your operation several weeks before your surgery date to ensure you have the best and safest outcome possible. Please review your doctors’ instructions, including those regarding fasting or liquid intake, and get enough sleep the night before surgery.
Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you will want to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, as you may have bandages and/or compression garments on after your surgery. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may constrict you. Additionally, please leave valuables and jewelry at home, remove nail polish and acrylic nails, and do not wear makeup on the day of your surgery. If you have hair pieces, wigs, or weaves, or eyelash pieces, they must be completely removed before any facial surgery. If you use contacts, please wear glasses to your surgery instead. If you wear dentures or other prosthetic devices, please advise your medical team ahead of your surgery.
Arrive at your surgical center early so you can check in and prepare without the stress of being late. This will help get your mind in as a relaxed state as possible which will help promote your healing.
When you are physically, mentally, and logistically ready, you can expect a smoother surgical experience and recovery. We wish you the best of luck on your surgical journey!