FTM top surgery

What is FTM top surgery?

This type of top surgery involves removing the glandular breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola, and adapting the size of these if necessary. There are three techniques for mastectomy, and the choice depends mainly on the size of the breasts. In addition, your surgeon may advise prior liposuction of the area to minimise scarring.

The aim of this procedure is to achieve a smooth, symmetrical chest, resulting in masculinisation of the thorax.

How is female to male top surgery performed?

To achieve a smooth, masculine chest, IM GENDER’s team of surgeons will perform a subcutaneous mastectomy to preserve the mammary areolas (adapting their size to a more masculine standard) and the nipples. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts 2–3 hours.

Three different surgery procedures can be used for mastectomy, depending mainly on the size of the breasts:

• Periareolar top surgery technique. When the breast is small, this surgical technique is usually chosen. It consists of making an incision around the areola, through which the glandular tissue is removed. This technique allows scarring to be kept to a minimum.
• Double incision top surgery technique. This technique is usually used when the breasts are voluminous. Basically, it consists of making the periareolar incision plus another incision that is extended towards the armpit area through which the glandular tissue is removed. In this case, the scars are more evident than in the periareolar technique, although over time they may be concealed by body hair.
• Free graft technique. When the breasts are really voluminous or when the patient is considered a “heavy” smoker, the surgeon usually opts for areola grafts during surgery.

All these techniques can be combined with a reduction in the size of the areola and nipple, which will improve the final result in some cases. Prior liposuction can also be used to reduce the size of the scars and improve the pectoral contour.

Who can undergo this surgery?

All those trans men who want to achieve a smooth, flat and symmetrical chest, resulting in a masculinisation of the chest.

How long does the surgery take?

This gender affirmation surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts 2–3 hours.

How painful is FTM top surgery?

You may feel some pain for the first couple of days, but don’t worry! Your plastic surgeon will prescribe medication to lessen the pain.

How much is top surgery?

The price of a FTM top surgery can be different depending on the case of the person. It must also be taken into account if the chest operation is decided to be combined with other treatments.
A first visit is recommended to assess the patient’s case to make a personalised budget.

What is recovery like after a female to male top surgery?

During the operation, a drain is placed in each breast to facilitate drainage of retained liquids from the operated area and thus avoid haematoma. These drains are removed after 48 hours. Afterwards, you will have to wear a compression garment, band or T-shirt for one or two weeks after surgery, depending on the medical team’s assessment. This compressive band prevents the formation of haematomas and facilitates the modeling and adaptation of the chest skin.
24 hours after the operation, you will be able to return to your normal life, with the express limitation of exertion and weight bearing.

How should I sleep during the FTM top surgery recovery period?

You should sleep on your back for at least the first month after your chest surgery. Although it will always depend on the recovery of each patient.

When will I be able to play sports again after a top surgery?

Before restarting your sport routine, consult your doctor when it is appropriate to start and what type of physical activity is the most appropriate until your complete recovery. Remember that during the first days you should not take weight or make efforts with the upper part of the body

What is the result?

The results are excellent and can be seen immediately, although you must wait for the swelling to go down before checking the final shape. Your breasts are smoother, while your areolas and nipples are in harmony with your chest’s new masculine appearance, which is aesthetically similar to that of a cis man.

When does the chest start to change after this surgery?

Once the drains are removed, the patient’s recovery is much faster. After 10 days of FTM top surgery, the decrease in inflammation begins to be noticed.

Can I still feel my nipples after top surgery?

Generally, you will lose erotic sensation, but after this FTM surgery you can expect your nipples to be sensitive to pressure sensation or temperature. Also, this surgery includes some tingling that will normally go away within a few weeks or months.