A timeline for massage after top surgery

Recently I received the following email inquiry.

“Hi I'm about a month post op from top surgery, and wonder what your recommended timeline is before I pursue an appointment with you? So far surgeons recommendation is to still only lay on back and side, so not sure if I should wait until I get the all clear for everything before requesting an appointment with you?

My response:

Thanks for writing and asking for clarification. 

First, congratulations on your surgery! 

Second, the way I approach a session is to understand what your body needs and making sure you are comfortable the entire time, both with the session and your body actually being supported (physically) 

From what you wrote about being on your back, or on your side is totally ok. I offer a lot of support with bolstering, adding extra pillows etc so your body is supported and can relax. 

Further the session doesn’t need to focus exclusively on the surgical area, we can support your lymphatic system and overall relaxation as your body recovers. 

I’ve worked with clients a few days after surgery (numerous types of surgery including top surgery) to weeks and months later. I am comfortably working with clients wherever they are in recovery, and ask numerous questions to ensure clients feel understood. Also, if you’ve never received a bodywork / massage session before, that’s ok too.  Please let go of the idea that it will be a deep tissue massage or something painful, as this is not how my sessions are offered. It’s meeting the body and supporting where clients are at in that moment. 

If you have any other questions, please let me know. 

Stacey (she/ they)