Consult and Understanding

• Consult with your surgeon: Schedule a thorough consultation with your surgeon to discuss the procedure, expected outcomes, and any concerns you may have, this may also be part of the pre-op appointment.

• Gain Knowledge: Read up on the surgery, recovery process, and potential risks. Understanding what to expect can ease anxiety.

Medical Preparation

• Health Assessment: Complete any required health assessments or tests. This may include blood work or imaging as per your surgeon's recommendations.

• Medications: Review and follow instructions regarding any medications or supplements to discontinue prior to surgery.

Emotional Preparation

• Support System: Arrange for emotional support from friends, family, or support groups. Consider talking to someone who has undergone top surgery for firsthand insights.

• Mental Health: Take care of your mental health leading up to the surgery. It's normal to experience a range of emotions, so consider therapy if needed.

• Create a list of reasons for wanting the surgery and what you look forward to afterward. This can provide motivation during recovery.
  Preparing for top surgery involves several steps to ensure physical and emotional readiness.

Physical Preparation

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Nourish and move your body in the weeks leading up to surgery to support your mental health and to ease recovery afterward. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding smoking cessation, alcohol consumption, and other lifestyle factors.

• Consider purchasing and implementing Align and Shine- an online exercise, self paced program before surgery (pre-hab) to get your body ready. Amazing content created by a trans personal trainer who struggled with recovery after because of muscle imbalance. Well worth the investment

• Post-Surgery Planning: Prepare your living space for recovery. Ensure easy access to necessities and plan for assistance, especially for the first few days post-op.

Practical Considerations

• Timeline and Checklists: Create a pre-op timeline with checklists. This should include tasks like gathering supplies, arranging caregiving, and preparing your recovery space.

• Time Off Work/School: Arrange for time off from work or school as required for recovery. Depending on your job, you may need to consider the physical demands of your role and your timeline to returning to work.

• Transportation: Make transportation arrangements for the day of surgery and for follow-up appointments, as you may not be able to drive after the procedure.

• Support Network: Identify people who can provide help during recovery. Determine the kind of assistance you'll need (e.g., childcare, transportation, meal preparation, help with laundry etc).

• Financial Planning: Consider the financial impact of surgery and recovery. Save in advance to cover bills and potential costs for supplies. Start a go fund me campaign.

• Pre-op Bodywork: Prepare your body for surgery through self-massage or professional massage therapy.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and your surgeon's specific instructions should always take precedence. It's crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare team and ask for clarification or support whenever needed.