FTM top surgery, also known as male chest reconstruction, is a surgical procedure that is performed to masculinize the chest. The goal of the surgery is to create a more masculine appearance by removing breast tissue and contouring the chest wall.
There are several different types of FTM top surgery procedures, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of FTM top surgery procedures are:
- Double incision top surgery: This is the most common type of FTM top surgery. It involves making two incisions across the chest, one under each breast. The surgeon then removes the breast tissue and reshapes the chest wall. In some cases, implants may be inserted.
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy: This type of surgery is less invasive than double incision top surgery. It involves making smaller incisions around the areola, and the nipples are typically preserved. The surgeon then removes the breast tissue and reshapes the chest wall. In some cases, implants may be inserted.
- Keyhole top surgery: This is the least invasive type of FTM top surgery. It involves making a small incision around the nipple, and the surgeon removes the breast tissue through this opening. In some cases, implants may be inserted.
- Inverted-T top surgery: This type of surgery is similar to double incision top surgery, but it involves an additional vertical incision that is made below the breastbone. This incision allows the surgeon to remove more breast tissue and create a flatter chest.
The specific procedure that is right for you will depend on your individual anatomy, preferences, and goals. It is important to talk to a surgeon about your options to decide which procedure is best for you.
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing an FTM top surgery procedure:
- The size of your breasts: If you have larger breasts, you may need a more extensive procedure, such as double incision top surgery.
- Your desired results: If you want a completely flat chest, you may need a more extensive procedure. If you are happy with your current nipple size and shape, you may be able to have a nipple-sparing mastectomy.
- Your recovery time: The recovery time for FTM top surgery varies depending on the procedure. Double incision top surgery typically has the longest recovery time, while keyhole top surgery has the shortest recovery time.
- The cost of surgery: The cost of FTM top surgery varies depending on the procedure and the surgeon. It is important to factor in the cost of surgery when making your decision.
Ultimately, the decision of which FTM top surgery procedure is right for you is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and what is right for one person may not be right for another. It is important to talk to a surgeon and a therapist or counselor to get the information you need to make the best decision for yourself.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) website: https://www.wpath.org/
- The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/
- The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
FTM top surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to remove breast tissue and create a more masculine chest contour for transgender men or individuals assigned female at birth. The specific techniques used may vary depending on individual factors, surgeon preference, and the desired outcome. However, there are generally two main surgical approaches for FTM top surgery: subcutaneous mastectomy and double incision mastectomy.
- Subcutaneous Mastectomy: This technique is suitable for individuals with smaller breasts and less excess skin. It involves making small incisions around the areolas (the pigmented area around the nipples) and removing the breast tissue through liposuction and/or direct excision. The nipple-areola complex is usually resized and repositioned to create a more masculine appearance.
- Double Incision Mastectomy: This technique is commonly used for individuals with larger breasts or those who desire a more significant reduction. It involves making horizontal incisions beneath the pectoral muscles, extending from one side of the chest to the other. The breast tissue is removed, excess skin is excised, and the remaining skin is then repositioned and reshaped to create a flatter, more masculine chest contour. The nipple-areola complex is typically resized, repositioned, and grafted back onto the chest.
In both techniques, liposuction may be used to remove excess fatty tissue and achieve better chest definition. Drains may be placed temporarily to remove excess fluid and minimize postoperative swelling. The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical adhesive, and dressings or compression garments are applied to aid in healing and provide support.
The surgical procedure typically takes a few hours, and patients may require general anesthesia. Recovery time varies, but individuals usually need several weeks for initial healing, during which they may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. It is crucial to follow the surgeon’s postoperative instructions regarding activity restrictions, wound care, pain management, and follow-up visits.
It’s important to consult with an experienced surgeon who specializes in transgender surgeries to discuss the specific surgical technique that suits an individual’s needs and goals, as well as to understand the potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of FTM top surgery.