There is no set rule on how long after starting HRT you can have FTM top surgery. Some surgeons may recommend waiting for a certain amount of time, while others may be more flexible. Ultimately, the decision of when to have top surgery is up to you and your surgeon.

That said, there are some factors that may influence your surgeon’s decision about when you are ready for top surgery. These factors may include:

  • Your age: Most surgeons recommend that people wait until they are at least 18 years old before having top surgery. However, there may be exceptions to this rule, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
  • Your mental and emotional health: Top surgery is a major surgery, and it is important to be mentally and emotionally prepared for the changes it will bring. People who are considering top surgery should talk to a therapist or counselor to make sure they are making the right decision for themselves.
  • Your physical health: People who are considering top surgery should be in generally good health. They should have no major health conditions that could complicate the surgery or the recovery process.
  • Your goals for top surgery: It is important to have realistic expectations about what top surgery can achieve. Top surgery can help to create a more masculine chest, but it cannot completely change the shape of the chest or make it look like a cis man’s chest.
  • The type of top surgery you want: The type of top surgery you want may also affect the timing of your surgery. Some types of top surgery, such as double incision top surgery, require a longer recovery time than other types of top surgery.

If you are considering FTM top surgery, it is important to talk to your surgeon about your individual circumstances and goals. The surgeon will be able to assess your eligibility for surgery and help you make the best decision for yourself.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

  • The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care: https://www.wpath.org/publications/soc
  • The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/
  • The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

The timing for FTM top surgery after starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can vary depending on individual factors, including your overall health, hormonal changes, and personal goals. It is generally recommended to undergo HRT for a period of time before considering FTM top surgery. Here are some considerations:

  1. Hormonal Changes: HRT typically involves the administration of testosterone to induce masculine secondary sexual characteristics. The length of time recommended on HRT before pursuing top surgery can vary, but many surgeons suggest a minimum duration of six months to a year on HRT to allow for sufficient hormonal changes and breast tissue redistribution.
  2. Chest Changes: Hormone therapy can lead to changes in breast tissue composition, including decreased breast volume and increased chest muscle development. These changes can impact the surgical planning and aesthetic outcomes of FTM top surgery.
  3. Stable Hormone Levels: Before undergoing surgery, it is essential to have stable hormone levels. This ensures that your body has adequately adjusted to HRT, allowing for more predictable surgical results and minimizing the risk of complications.
  4. Mental Health Evaluation: Many surgeons require a mental health evaluation to assess your psychological readiness for surgery and confirm the diagnosis of gender dysphoria. This evaluation may include an assessment of your experiences with HRT and the impact it has had on your well-being.

It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, preferably a surgeon experienced in transgender surgeries, to discuss the optimal timing for FTM top surgery based on your individual circumstances. They can evaluate your specific case, consider factors such as hormonal changes, breast development, and overall health, and provide personalized recommendations.

Additionally, it’s crucial to have open communication with your healthcare team, including your surgeon and prescribing healthcare provider, about your goals and concerns regarding FTM top surgery and HRT. They can provide guidance and support throughout your gender transition journey.