Here are some medications that you should avoid before FTM top surgery:
- Aspirin and ibuprofen: These medications can increase bleeding during and after surgery.
- Vitamin E: This vitamin can also increase bleeding.
- Blood thinners: These medications, such as warfarin and Coumadin, can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Herbal supplements: Some herbal supplements, such as ginkgo biloba and garlic, can also increase bleeding.
- Stimulants: These medications, such as caffeine and nicotine, can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous during surgery.
It is important to talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking before FTM top surgery. They can help you determine which medications you need to stop taking and when you need to stop taking them.
Here are some additional tips for preparing for FTM top surgery:
- Quit smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.
- Get a physical exam: This will help your doctor make sure you are healthy enough for surgery.
- Have your blood drawn: This will help your doctor check your blood clotting levels and make sure you have enough blood.
- Make arrangements for someone to drive you home from the hospital: You will not be able to drive yourself home after surgery.
- Have someone stay with you for the first few days after surgery: You will need help with things like bathing, dressing, and getting around.
Before FTM top surgery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding medications to avoid or adjust. While the specific recommendations may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the surgical team’s preferences, here are some common medications that are typically advised to avoid before surgery:
- Blood Thinners: Medications that thin the blood and affect clotting should generally be discontinued or adjusted before surgery. This includes over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba or fish oil. These medications can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Certain anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, can impair wound healing and increase the risk of complications. Your surgeon will provide guidance on whether to continue or adjust these medications based on your specific needs.
- Hormonal Medications: If you are taking hormonal medications as part of your transition, such as testosterone, your surgeon may provide specific instructions on when to take your last dose before the surgery. It’s important to discuss this with your prescribing healthcare provider and your surgical team to ensure a smooth transition between hormone therapy and surgery.
- Herbal Supplements: Some herbal supplements can interfere with anesthesia, bleeding, or wound healing. It’s essential to disclose all herbal supplements you are taking to your surgical team and follow their recommendations on discontinuing or adjusting these supplements before the surgery.
- Prescription Medications: Provide your surgeon with a comprehensive list of all prescription medications you are taking. They will review them and provide guidance on whether any adjustments or discontinuation of certain medications are necessary before the surgery.
It’s important to communicate openly with your surgical team about all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. They will provide you with specific instructions tailored to your situation, including when to stop taking certain medications and when it is safe to resume them after the surgery.
Do not make any changes to your medication regimen without consulting your prescribing healthcare provider and surgical team. They will guide you on the appropriate timing and adjustments to ensure your safety and optimize the surgical outcomes.