Whether or not you can get MTF top surgery if you have a history of smoking-related lung issues depends on the surgeon and your individual circumstances.
Some surgeons may require you to quit smoking for a certain amount of time before they will perform MTF top surgery. This is because smoking can increase your risk of complications during surgery, such as bleeding and infection.
Other surgeons may be willing to perform MTF top surgery on people who smoke. However, they may require you to take steps to reduce your risk of complications, such as quitting smoking or taking medication to help you quit.
It is important to talk to your surgeon about your smoking history and their recommendations. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action for you.
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering MTF top surgery and you have a history of smoking-related lung issues:
- You may need to quit smoking for a certain amount of time before surgery.
- You may need to take medication to help you quit smoking.
- You may be at an increased risk of complications during surgery.
If you are concerned about your smoking history and MTF top surgery, be sure to talk to your surgeon. They will be able to answer any questions you have and help you understand what to expect.
Here are some resources that may be helpful:
- The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/: A national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth.
- Trans Lifeline: https://www.translifeline.org/: A national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to transgender people.
- The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/: A national organization that advocates for transgender rights.
If you have a history of smoking-related lung issues, it is important to discuss this with your surgeon during the pre-operative consultation for MTF top surgery. Smoking and smoking-related lung issues can increase the risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, as well as impact the healing process. Here are some considerations:
- Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon will conduct a thorough medical evaluation, which may include reviewing your medical history, assessing the severity of your lung issues, and possibly collaborating with a pulmonologist or other specialists. This evaluation helps determine the appropriateness of MTF top surgery and identify any necessary precautions or modifications to ensure your safety.
- Anesthesia and Surgical Risks: Smoking and smoking-related lung issues can increase the risks associated with anesthesia, including respiratory complications and poor oxygenation during and after surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate the risks and consider your lung function when planning the surgery. It’s important to disclose your complete smoking history and any related lung issues to your surgeon.
- Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is highly advisable for both general health and surgical outcomes. Smoking cessation can improve lung function, reduce the risk of complications, and promote healing. Your surgeon may recommend quitting smoking for a specific duration before the surgery to optimize your health and reduce surgical risks.
- Post-operative Healing: Smoking can impede the healing process by reducing blood flow and oxygenation to the surgical site, increasing the risk of infection, delayed wound healing, and poor scar formation. It is crucial to refrain from smoking during the recovery period as instructed by your surgeon.
It’s important to have open and honest discussions with your surgeon and other healthcare professionals involved in your care. They will consider your medical history, lung function, and individual circumstances to determine the safest and most appropriate course of action for MTF top surgery. By working closely with your healthcare team, you can ensure that your surgery is conducted with the necessary precautions to minimize risks and optimize your outcomes.
If you are a smoker, it is strongly advised to seek support and resources to quit smoking before surgery. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance and refer you to appropriate smoking cessation programs or resources to help you quit and improve your overall health.