Scars affect us in seen and unseen ways.
More than surface-level, scars hold memory in the tissue.
Scars can cause pain, numbness, swelling, and limited mobility at the scar site or distant places in the body. The way scar tissue disrupts body functioning is by compressing lymphatic vessels, binding to fascia, and reducing blood and nerve flow.
Depending on where the scar is located this can cause a myriad of issues. One example is scar tissue created by chest surgery including gender affirmation surgery, breast augmentation, mastectomy or another procedure.
Chest surgery can create:
- Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
- Restricted lung expansion causing fatigue and shortness of breath
- Arm tingling / weakness
- Emotional tension held in the chest manifesting as grief and anxiety
Acupuncture provides pain and symptom relief by releasing scar tissue, whether from injury or surgery. Clearing adhesions, improving circulation, calming nerve irritation, acupuncture (often used alongside topical and internal herbal medicinals, moxibustion, gua sha, and cupping) allows the body to reintegrate areas that have been cut, injured, or held in tension for years.
Not just for post surgical or injury healing, acupuncture plays a supportive role in every stage of surgery related scars helping the body prepare for surgery, recover more smoothly afterward, and manage pain or stress along the way.
In some conditions, Chinese medicine can prevent the need for surgery by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, releasing muscle tension, and modulating the nervous system. Acupuncture, herbs, and bodywork restore mobility and function in tissues that might otherwise be considered for surgical intervention – including orthopedic and non-orthopedic conditions. So if you’re facing surgery and wondering if there’s another way, we can discuss your specific case and explore what’s possible – whether that is working together, referring out to another colleague, or confirming surgical intervention as the trusted path.
Gender Affirmation Surgery
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting transgender and gender-diverse individuals through every stage of gender-affirming surgery preparation, recovery, and long-term integration. While the body heals from procedures like top or bottom surgery, there can be physical challenges such as scar tissue, nerve changes, pelvic tension, fatigue, postural challenges, and restricted breathing.
The surgery itself can re-open old psychological wounds such that healing also unfolds on deeper levels. Sometimes there’s unexpected grief, disorientation, or emotional release, even in the midst of profound relief or joy.
My work helps support this full spectrum releasing physical restriction, 
calming the nervous system, and holding space for the complexity of becoming more fully at home in one’s body.