In the lower mainland? Book a Massage!
Top surgery, also known as chest masculinization surgery or breast augmentation surgery, is a major surgical procedure that involves removing breast tissue and reconstructing the chest to create a more masculine appearance for transgender men or non-binary individuals. The recovery process can be painful and uncomfortable, but there are several evidence-based techniques that can be used to relieve pain and promote healing. One of these techniques is massage therapy.
Massage therapy has been used for thousands of years to relieve pain and promote healing. It involves applying pressure and manipulating the muscles and soft tissues in the body. Recent research confirms that massage therapy can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and release tension in the muscles. These benefits can be particularly helpful for individuals who have undergone top surgery.
The Science Behind Post-Surgical Massage Therapy
A comprehensive meta-analysis published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2022) found that massage therapy is effective in reducing postoperative pain in both short and long terms. The study demonstrated significant pain reduction benefits for post-surgical patients receiving massage therapy compared to standard care alone.
Research published in JAMA Network Open (2024) confirms that massage therapy has a growing body of evidence supporting its effectiveness in reducing pain and improving health-related quality of life in various health conditions and rehabilitation. A systematic review by the American Massage Therapy Association (2024) notes that evidence shows massage therapy helps with issues related to post-surgical scars, such as pain and reduced range of motion.
Evidence-Based Tips for Using Massage Therapy After Top Surgery
1. Wait Until You Are Ready
It is important to wait until you are fully healed before starting any kind of massage therapy. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on when it is safe to begin massaging your chest. Generally, you should wait at least six weeks after surgery before starting massage therapy. Research published in MD Anderson Cancer Center (2024) recommends that patients should begin scar massage about two to three weeks after surgery, once the wound has closed completely and the skin has fully healed.
2. Start Slowly
When you do begin massaging your chest, start slowly and gently. Use light pressure and be mindful of any pain or discomfort. You can gradually increase the pressure as you become more comfortable. A systematic review published in PMC (2016) found that massage therapy demonstrates significant benefits when applied appropriately to post-surgical populations, emphasizing the importance of proper technique and gradual progression.
3. Use a Light Touch
Your chest will be sensitive after surgery, so it is important to use a light touch. Avoid applying too much pressure or massaging too aggressively. You can use your fingertips or the palm of your hand to gently massage the area.
4. Use a Lubricant
Using a lubricant, such as coconut oil or vitamin E oil, can help to reduce friction and make the massage more comfortable. Apply a small amount of the lubricant to your chest before massaging. Research shows that anything that promotes hydration will tend to improve healing and appearance.
5. Use Circular Motions
Using circular motions can help to improve circulation and release tension in the muscles. Start at the outer edge of your chest and use circular motions to massage inward towards your nipple. A study published in PMC (2024) found that different massage techniques can be tailored to suit specific post-surgical needs, with circular motions being particularly effective for improving circulation.
6. Focus on the Scar Tissue
After top surgery, you will have scar tissue in the area where the incisions were made. Massaging the scar tissue can help to break up any adhesions and improve the appearance of the scar. Use a gentle circular motion to massage the scar tissue for a few minutes each day.
Research published in Skin Research and Technology (2023) demonstrates that manual scar tissue therapy uses techniques such as massage to help fibers in scar tissue become more aligned, reduce tension within the scar, and improve blood flow to the area which supports the healing process. A systematic review in PMC (2020) found that physical scar management had a large and statistically significant effect on pain reduction compared with control interventions.
7. Use Heat Therapy
Using heat therapy, such as a warm compress or a heating pad, can help to relax the muscles and reduce pain. You can apply heat to your chest before or after massaging to help improve the effectiveness of the massage.
8. Don't Overdo It
It is important to listen to your body and not overdo it with the massage therapy. Massaging too aggressively or for too long can cause more harm than good. Start with just a few minutes of massage each day and gradually increase the time as your body becomes more comfortable.
For optimal results, research suggests that scar massage should be performed for at least 10 minutes, twice a day, for six months. However, individual needs may vary, and you should only stop sooner if the scar shows signs of infection or you experience intolerable discomfort.
Evidence-Based Massage Techniques for Scar Management
Research published in PMC (2024) identifies several effective massage techniques for post-surgical scar management:
Longitudinal Movements: These are drawn along the length of the scar to reduce skin tension.
Circular Motions: Used to break down fibrous tissue and promote better alignment of underlying structures.
Transverse Movements: Made perpendicular to the scar to break down adhesions and promote mobility.
A comprehensive study found that the most frequently identified reason for using scar massage was to improve soft tissue glide or reduce adhesions (98%), followed by reducing hypersensitivity (92%).
Additional Evidence-Based Recovery Techniques
In addition to massage therapy, research supports several other techniques that can be used to relieve pain after top surgery:
Taking pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon
Getting plenty of rest and allowing your body to heal
Using ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation
Doing gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in nutrients to promote healing
The Psychological Benefits of Massage Therapy
Beyond physical benefits, research published by MD Anderson Cancer Center (2024) notes that scar massage has psychological benefits, including reducing anxiety by giving patients a sense of control over their healing process and making them feel better physically and mentally by giving them a way to contribute to their recovery.
Professional Support and Inclusive Care
It is important to work closely with your surgeon and follow their instructions for post-operative care. Massage therapy can be a helpful technique for relieving pain and promoting healing after top surgery, but it is just one piece of the puzzle. By taking a holistic approach to your recovery, you can help ensure the best possible outcome and enjoy the benefits of your surgery for years to come.
WHO WE WORK WITH
We work with anyone who has undergone top surgery. Jak McIntosh has treated several patients with gender affirming surgical scars and welcomes anyone who feels as though they could use some professional massage therapy support.
Research consistently shows that while there may be benefits to scar massage in reducing pain, increasing movement and improving scar characteristics, individualized treatment approaches are essential. Our inclusive approach ensures that every individual receives personalized care that respects their identity and supports their unique recovery needs.
By combining evidence-based massage techniques with compassionate, inclusive care, we can help you achieve optimal recovery outcomes while honoring your experience and supporting your overall well-being throughout the healing process.
Find out more about Capria Care Collective
In the lower mainland? Book a Massage!