The habit that most profoundly and negatively affects recovery is tobacco abuse. Cigarettes contain nicotine, which is a proven vasoconstrictor, depressant, and a toxin. While most people associate lung cancer with smoking, nicotine has effects on all parts of the body. Because the Centurion procedure involves a small, critical area and a number of tissue flaps, circulation is crucial to recovery, function, and simply avoiding infection. Nicotine as a vasoconstrictor constricts, or “shrinks down,” the blood vessels and in an area with small capillaries of a tiny diameter, any constriction can prove detrimental. As a depressant, nicotine depresses all natural functions in the human body, including the immune system. Combine these with the fact that nicotine is a toxin that the body will expend energy on to combat, and the risk for complications grows exponentially.
The goal of all patients should be to be as physically prepared as they are mentally for the FTM change. Those in the best physical condition will afford themselves the best opportunity for successful recovery and optimal function. While there are no guarantees, no one should ever make the mistake of limiting their options by continuing habits or practices that are harmful or cause the body to divert energy and attention from healing and function to things that are easily avoidable.
For many transmen patients, GCS is a vital component of their transition, offering many physical and psychological benefits. Because GCS is such a significant procedure, it is paramount to work with only the most expert surgeons. At the International Center for Transgender Care, our board-certified surgeons have more than 20 years of experience treating transgender patients. We are proud to offer all of our services in a respectful, welcoming environment at our world-class surgical center in Dallas, Texas. We look forward to assisting you in achieving the very best possible results for your GCS.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or call us at (972) 543-2477.