How to successfully recover after Sex reassignment surgery
Dr. Chettawut’s Post-Operative Instructions for SRS
1. No Smoking
Smoking is strictly prohibited for at least the first 2 weeks after sex reassignment surgery (SRS). The harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke, particularly nicotine and carbon monoxide, can reduce oxygen and nutritional blood flow to the skin. This can lead to tissue ischemia, impaired wound healing, and even skin necrosis.
2. Activities
For optimal recovery, it is essential to stay in your hotel room for sufficient rest during the first 2 weeks post-surgery. Our affiliated hotels offer room service for breakfast without extra charge, and we recommend using room service for lunch and dinner during this period. After 2 weeks, light activities inside the hotel, such as dining or chatting in the lobby, may be possible. However, please consult our nurses to ensure you are fit for these activities.
3. Medication
We provide all necessary medications throughout your recovery in Thailand and for home use without additional charges. It is crucial to follow the medication instructions strictly and complete the prescribed course of prophylactic antibiotics. Potent pain relievers like Tramadol are provided for comfort. Do not take estrogen hormones during your recovery in Thailand to avoid the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis). You can resume HRT (hormonal replacement therapy) upon returning home, but delicate adjustments should be managed by your hormone specialist.
4. Type of Food
4.1 Skin Graft Technique
During the first week of recovery, a full liquid and soft diet is recommended. Examples include cream soups, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, tuna, chocolate milk, and canned fruits. Regular food can be resumed after the first week.
4.2 Colon Graft Technique
A clear liquid diet followed by a full liquid diet is allowed step by step during the first week. After resuming bowel movements, a soft diet is recommended,
Dr. Chettawut’s vaginal dilator set (5 sizes)
Dilator no. 0 (Ø 20 mm)
Dilator no. 1 (Ø 23 mm)
Dilator no. 2 (Ø 26 mm)
Dilator no. 3 (Ø 29 mm)
Dilator no. 4 (Ø 32 mm)
The length of each dilator is approximately 8.5 inches
QC water soluble vaginal lubricant jelly
&
Anesthetic water soluble vaginal lubricant jelly for vaginal dilation
A soft donut pillow (For displacing the pressure away from the site of SRS) to utilize when sitting
Baby wipe
(Disposable cloths used to cleanse the sensitive skin)
One pack of disposable bed sheet pads
(Under-buttock bed sheet) & Sanitary pad
A stand mirror for giving you a better view of the dilator’s direction during dilation
usually in the second week. Regular food can be resumed once you are back in your country.
Nursing Care at the Hotel & Dr. Chettawut’s Post-Operative SRS Care Kit
Our highly qualified surgical nurses, who assisted Dr. Chettawut during the operation, will visit you daily at our affiliated hotels. They will provide necessary aftercare and supervise your vaginal dilation routine. This continuity of care from surgery to recovery promotes a good nurse-patient relationship and efficient care.
Upon discharge from Chettawut Plastic Surgery Center, you will receive:
- Two SRS certificates with Dr. Chettawut’s original handwritten signatures.
- All necessary oral medications with detailed instructions.
- A set of SRS care kits.
How to Plan for Recovery at Home After SRS
Rest is crucial during the first 2 months after surgery. Avoid stress, heavy lifting (over 5 pounds), and long walks. Short, regular walks are preferable. A gradual return to work with light duties or reduced hours is recommended.
Activity Restrictions During the First 3 Months After SRS
To ensure complete healing, avoid activities that may cause wound complications. Forbidden activities include:
- Stretching or spreading the labia to clean, view, or photograph.
- Sexual intercourse.
- Strenuous activities such as hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, or motorcycle riding.
- Sports or exercises that may overstretch the genital area, including yoga, aerobic dancing, and pilates.