Core Connection Mobile Physiotherapy logo

Chest Construction: Pre & Post-Op Recovery

Supportive, affirming recovery guidance for anyone preparing for or recovering from chest (top) surgery, including gender-affirming procedures. We welcome and respect people of all gender identities and expressions.

Disclaimer: Post-operative protocols vary depending on your surgeon, incision type (e.g., double incision, keyhole), and individual healing rates. Always obtain clearance from your surgeon before beginning scar massage or active shoulder range of motion exercises.
Back to Resources

Video Rehabilitation Guide

Core Connection Mobile Physiotherapy Logo

Follow along with this clinical video guide to understand chest tissue mobilization, breathing exercises to expand the ribcage post-op, and safe ways to restore shoulder mobility.

Clinical Phase Guidelines

1

Pre-Operative Preparation

Optimize your tissue mobility and posture before surgery to streamline recovery:

  • Maintain good thoracic (upper back) extension and posture.
  • Incorporate gentle chest opening stretches to keep the pectorals elongated.
  • Practice diaphragmatic breathing to prepare your ribcage and abdominal core.
2

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

Protecting your incisions while preventing contracture and stiffness:

  • Weeks 0-2 (Rest): Focus on gentle walking, posture checks (preventing rounded shoulders), and deep belly breathing. Maintain elbow/wrist motion.
  • Weeks 2-6 (Range of Motion): Begin shoulder mobility exercises below shoulder height (unless cleared by surgeon). Practice light wall walks and posture alignment.
  • Weeks 6+ (Scar Mobilization): Once your surgeon confirms incisions are fully closed with no scabs remaining, scar tissue desensitization and massage may help reduce tissue adhesion. Timelines vary, follow your surgeon’s specific guidance.

Print Protocol

Print a structured factsheet of the pre- and post-op exercises and timelines shown in the video guide.

Surgeon Aligned Care

Our kinesiologists and physical therapists work directly with your surgeon's protocols to guide you safely through scar mobilization and full posture rehabilitation.

Book Post-Op Assessment

Preparing for or recovering from surgery?

We bring safe, experienced chest surgery post-operative rehabilitation and scar mobilization therapies directly to your home.