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If you’ve had or are planning a breast reduction or top surgery, physiotherapy can play a big role in your recovery. Whether your surgery was for gender affirmation, comfort, or health reasons, your body needs time and support to heal. At Peak Physio, we’re here to help you feel safe, respected, and empowered as you return to moving confidently in your body.

This guide is designed to help you understand how physiotherapy can support your healing — physically, mentally, and emotionally — and what you can expect from us during your journey.

What You Might Experience After Surgery

Everyone’s recovery is different, but some common things you might feel after surgery include:

  • Pain or tightness around your chest, shoulders, or upper back
  • Swelling or bruising near the surgical area
  • Stiffness or trouble lifting your arms, especially overhead
  • Numbness or tingling, often near your nipples or chest wall
  • Fatigue — surgery takes a lot out of you!
  • Changes to your posture — like hunching your shoulders forward
  • Scarring, which might feel tight or lumpy
  • Emotional shifts — including relief, joy, worry, or anxiety

These are all normal parts of healing, and we’re here to guide you through them.

Things That Might Affect Your Recovery

Some factors can influence how your body feels and heals, including:

  • Type of surgery — different methods have different recovery needs
  • History of chest binding — this can affect breathing and posture
  • Previous injuries — shoulder or back issues may need extra care
  • Mental health — anxiety or dysphoria can impact how you move and feel
  • Hormones — if you’re on testosterone or oestrogen, this may change how your body responds to healing
  • Level of support — feeling safe, seen, and affirmed makes a big difference

How Physiotherapy Can Help

We focus on more than just exercises — we’re here to support your whole recovery.

1. We Create a Safe, Affirming Space

You’ll be welcomed exactly as you are. We:

  • Use your correct name and pronouns
  • Ask what terms you feel comfortable using for your body
  • Offer chaperones or match you with a therapist you feel comfortable with
  • Always seek your consent before any hands-on work
  • Respect your choices — if something feels dysphoric or uncomfortable, we’ll adapt

2. Pain Relief and Gentle Support

  • Hands-on therapy (only if you’re comfortable) for tight muscles or stiff joints
  • Pain relief options like heat packs or TENS (gentle electrical stimulation)
  • Movement strategies to avoid strain and manage day-to-day discomfort

3. Restoring Movement and Comfort

  • Gently restore your shoulder and arm movement
  • Help your chest and ribs feel less tight
  • Improve breathing patterns if you’ve previously bound your chest
  • Support posture changes — without forcing any position that feels wrong for you

4. Scar Care

When your surgeon gives the all-clear (usually after 3–4 weeks), we can support scar healing:

  • Teach you how to massage your scar safely (if you’re comfortable)
  • Recommend scar creams or silicone sheeting
  • Show you how to prevent tightness and support healthy skin healing

5. Getting Back to Strength and Activity

  • Build strength in your arms, chest, back and core
  • Return to the gym, sport or work with confidence
  • Support your daily function — like lifting things, driving, and sleeping comfortably
  • Offer a custom program that fits your energy, goals and comfort level

6. Emotional Support and Understanding

We know that healing isn’t just physical. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure:

  • We’ll listen without judgement
  • Offer referrals to inclusive counsellors or community groups
  • Work at your pace — this is your body and your journey

Common Questions We Hear

When should I start physiotherapy?

We usually begin 2–3 weeks after surgery, once your wounds are healing well. If you’re unsure, ask your surgeon or get in touch with us for advice.

Do I have to remove my top for treatment?

No. You can stay as covered as you like. We’ll never ask you to expose your chest unless you feel it’s safe and appropriate — and even then, only with clear consent.

Can I wear my binder or compression garment again?

It depends on your surgery and healing. Most surgeons recommend waiting 6–8 weeks.

Is it okay if I’m not sure how I feel about my chest yet?

Absolutely. Healing — physically and emotionally — is a process. You are not alone, and we’re here for whatever you’re feeling.

What You Can Expect From Us

At Peak Physio, we pride ourselves on offering care that is:

  • Inclusive — every gender and body is welcome
  • Confidential — your privacy and choices are respected
  • Evidence-based — our treatment is based on current research and best practice
  • Flexible — we adapt to your needs, whether that’s in-clinic or via telehealth

You don’t need a referral to see us — just reach out when you’re ready.

If You’re Planning Surgery

We can help before your surgery too! Pre-surgery physio can:

  • Prepare your body for smoother recovery
  • Build strength and mobility to make post-op rehab easier
  • Reduce your risk of complications
  • Give you a clear plan for your return to movement

Useful Resources