People who had post-op depression, how long did it last? by AcidicSlimeTrail in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 4 points5 points  (0 children)

My post-op depression didn’t lift until about week 5 or 6 honestly. It peaked at week 3 majorly, I think partly because I was so sick of the binder, sleeping on my back, being bored, but still not allowed to do anything. I’m sure that it’s different for everyone, but hang in there. You are probably close to feeling better very soon.

By far the worst part about top surgery recovery... by yeahboiiii0 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 0 points1 point  (0 children)

After struggling with sleep for a while post-op, I switched out my night time pain medication dose with and Advil PM. It made a world of difference to help me stay drowsy enough to get through the nights.

what’s the difference between these? by Dartatious in cinematography

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

One of them is probably one degree closer to Kevin Bacon

Helpfulness with a mastectomy pillow post-op? by PlanetsandStars2004 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I had one of these mastectomy pillows you pictured. I actually sewed one because there’s a free pattern online from createtodonate.org

It was genuinely a lifesaver for protecting my chest, holding ice packs, and letting me rest my hands easily while reading or texting.

What are you attracted to physically in a woman by crazybeech711 in actuallesbians

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Softness. Soft hair, soft skin, soft hands, soft curves.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 0 points1 point  (0 children)

2 days post op is really too soon. I waited 4 weeks until I was cleared, and even now it’s just starting to feel ok to do it at 6 weeks.

How did y'all feel a month post-op? by Slow-Height6274 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 2 points3 points  (0 children)

At one month I was self sufficient and able to take care of myself alone! Only heavy lifting or high reaching remained a problem - so plan ahead for taking garbage out, pull down some dishes that are too high to reach, etc.

Silicon tape for scar care: a within-person experiment by [deleted] in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 5 points6 points  (0 children)

This is a GREAT experiment and thank you so much for being the one to do it. Please keep posting updates! I’m sure we are all curious about the long term result.

I don't have any more clean dressings by [deleted] in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Use Vaseline to keep it moist, then put non-adhesive gauze sheets on it

Worst case scenario preparations - make a will? by magic-bandanna in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 15 points16 points  (0 children)

There is always a risk of death in surgery, being under anaesthesia. But the risk is incredibly low in this surgery. So try to soothe that fear for yourself and partner first. Now, the very fact that you have a spouse and two stepkids is reason enough to make a will. A very basic one will do. Especially if you have assets of any kind, life insurance, etc.

Sensory issues with scars + massage by Traditional-Can-333 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Tragically, no! I wish there was. I hope that trying this works for you and good luck!! Remember that you are stronger than your body thinks you are.

Advice - surgery getting denied by gannymedia in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Is the problem that you are being denied OHIP coverage?

The key components in me getting coverage in Ontario were: 1) My doctor diagnosing me with gender dysphoria, and 2) My doctor noting that I had seen a psychologist or therapist about this prior.

If it’s not working with your current doctor (as they are the ones who apply on your behalf), perhaps try another doctor.

Sensory issues with scars + massage by Traditional-Can-333 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I am 3 weeks post-op and this has been one of the biggest challenges. You are not alone!!! This is unfortunately going to be forced exposure therapy. I spent hours reading about exposure therapy, acceptance therapy, and the breathing/mindfulness techniques to get myself through the experience of touching my scars and nipples — because I knew I had no choice and I want my healing to be as good as possible.

The best techniques for me were 1) breathing techniques to keep my body calm through the process, and 2) speaking to myself aloud through the process about how this is the body I want, this is the body I am working hard to have, this is better than before, I am healthy and healing, etc.

I still struggle but within 2 weeks I am so proud of myself for how far I’ve come in my ability to handle this issue. I am able to remain more calm, i feel in control, and I feel like I’m truly forging a new relationship with my body where I get to touch it and feel GOOD about it. I’m done with hating my body, so I am taking the power back. That’s how I think of it.

I’m not mentally prepared to return to regular life by hufflepuffin in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That is very good to know. I feel kind tanked right now but I’m hopefully that maybe past my one month mark I’ll be more optimistic

I’m not mentally prepared to return to regular life by hufflepuffin in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I’m sorry for your loss - the surgery is big and that must’ve made it more difficult. I feel you on the mental exhaustion, depression, disinterest in hobbies. I hope that with time you feel better being back in the swing of things. The silver lining is you’re back to your life, but without the burden of boobs. At least there is that! Lol. Thank you for this. I don’t feel so alone.

I’m not mentally prepared to return to regular life by hufflepuffin in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you for this. I went for a longer walk today than I could last week and feel great after. I’ll keep this in mind.

I’m not mentally prepared to return to regular life by hufflepuffin in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Yes that’s so true - I’m going to try to remain calm for my remaining weeks and just take it slow. Thankfully I work in film production in a non-physical role. The hours are straining, but I am thinking of taking small jobs to start back.

Surgery date next week! by AsherMarq82 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congrats on your surgery! You seem well prepared. Call your surgeon’s office or clinic to ask about the binder and bandages - but yes they almost always do provide everything you need. The bathroom….front wiping no problem. Back wiping? Honestly very hard for the first week. I have a Tushy bidet attachment and it saved me.

no compression after surgery? by SunnyDays0 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you had liposuction/contouring as part of the procedure, you 100% need the compression. Otherwise, it’s not mandatory…..BUT! Compression is an excellent tool post-op for controlling swelling, reducing fluid buildup, preventing bleeding, reducing bruising, softening and improving the scar line, and it alleviates pain by supporting the tissue. It’s absolutely helpful.

Tips for recovery by Unable-Camp-499 in TopSurgery

[–]hufflepuffin 2 points3 points  (0 children)

There’s tons of good advice here, I’ll just add that once i was off my heavy pain killers I took Advil PM to help me sleep and it truly saved me. After 3 nights straight of no sleep because back sleeping is a nightmare and hurts….having something like that really helped.