The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) recommends that people wait at least 1 year after starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) before having MTF top surgery. This is to allow the breasts to develop to their fullest potential and to minimize the risk of complications.

However, some surgeons may be willing to operate before 1 year, especially if the patient has already experienced significant breast growth. Ultimately, the decision of when to have MTF top surgery is a personal one that should be made in consultation with your surgeon.

Here are some of the factors that may influence your surgeon’s decision about when you can have MTF top surgery:

• Your individual goals and expectations: What are your goals for the surgery? Do you want to have a completely flat chest, or do you want to have some breast tissue left behind?
• Your individual anatomy: How much breast tissue do you have? Are your breasts symmetrical?
• Your medical history: Do you have any underlying medical conditions that could affect your recovery?
• Your emotional readiness: Are you emotionally ready for the surgery?

If you are considering MTF top surgery, it is important to talk to your surgeon about your individual circumstances. They can help you to decide when is the right time for you to have the surgery.

Here are some resources that can help you to find out more about MTF top surgery and HRT:

• The World Professional Association for Transgender Health: https://www.wpath.org/
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/
• The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/

The timeline for undergoing MTF top surgery after starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can vary depending on several factors, including the specific guidelines and practices of the surgeon, your individual health and hormone response, and any necessary evaluation or preparation required before surgery. Here are some general considerations:

1. Hormone Stabilization: Surgeons typically prefer to perform MTF top surgery after a period of hormone stabilization. This allows time for hormone therapy to induce breast development and establish a more accurate assessment of chest contouring needs. The duration of this stabilization period can vary among surgeons but is often around 6 to 12 months.
2. Breast Development: The extent of breast development achieved through hormone therapy can influence the surgical approach and results. Surgeons may prefer to perform MTF top surgery after a certain level of breast growth has been achieved to optimize the outcome. However, the specific requirements can vary among surgeons, and they may consider other factors, such as individual goals and hormone response, in determining the appropriate timing.
3. Mental and Emotional Readiness: It is essential to ensure that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for surgery. MTF top surgery is a significant step in a gender transition journey, and being mentally prepared can contribute to a smoother recovery and more satisfying results. Some surgeons may require a mental health evaluation to assess readiness for surgery.
4. Surgeon’s Guidelines and Requirements: Each surgeon may have their own guidelines and requirements regarding the timing of MTF top surgery after starting HRT. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified surgeon experienced in transgender healthcare to understand their specific recommendations and protocols.

It’s important to have open and honest discussions with both your healthcare provider prescribing HRT and your chosen surgeon to coordinate your transition plan and determine the optimal timing for MTF top surgery. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances, goals, and health considerations.