Sure. Transmasculine top surgery is a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and creates a masculine-looking chest for transgender men. There are two main types of transmasculine top surgery:
- Double incision mastectomy (DI)is the most common type of top surgery. In a DI, the surgeon makes two incisions around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple) and extends them down to the bottom of the breast. The breast tissue is then removed and the skin is stitched back together.
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- Keyhole surgery is a less invasive type of top surgery that leaves smaller scars. In a keyhole surgery, the surgeon makes two or three small incisions around the areola. The breast tissue is then removed through these incisions.
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The recovery time for top surgery varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual’s body. In general, people who have DI surgery need to stay in the hospital for one night and can expect to take 4-6 weeks off from work or school. People who have keyhole surgery can often go home the same day and can expect to take 2-4 weeks off from work or school.
Top surgery is a safe and effective procedure, but it is important to do your research and choose a qualified surgeon. You should also talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of top surgery before making a decision.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH): https://www.wpath.org/
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World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) logo
- The Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/
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Human Rights Campaign logo
- The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/
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National Center for Transgender Equality logo
Transmasculine top surgery, also known as chest masculinization surgery or female-to-male (FTM) top surgery, is a gender-affirming surgical procedure that involves the removal of breast tissue to create a more masculine chest contour. Here are some key points about transmasculine top surgery:
- Purpose: The primary goal of transmasculine top surgery is to alleviate gender dysphoria by creating a chest that aligns with an individual’s gender identity. The procedure helps to masculinize the appearance of the chest and remove breast tissue.
- Procedure Options: There are different surgical techniques available for transmasculine top surgery, including:
- Double Incision Mastectomy: This is the most common technique, where horizontal incisions are made across the chest to remove breast tissue. The nipples are typically resized and repositioned to create a more masculine appearance.
- Periareolar or Keyhole Mastectomy: This technique is suitable for individuals with smaller breasts and less excess skin. It involves smaller incisions around the areola to remove breast tissue.
- Inverted-T or Anchor Incision Mastectomy: This technique may be used for individuals with larger breasts or significant excess skin. It involves additional vertical and horizontal incisions to remove breast tissue and excess skin.
- Nipple and Areola Options: Depending on the surgical technique and individual preference, options for the placement and appearance of the nipples and areolas can vary. Some individuals opt for a male-appearing nipple and areola complex, while others choose to have no nipples (nipple grafts) or tattooed areolas.
- Recovery: After transmasculine top surgery, individuals typically experience a recovery period that involves rest, wound care, and limited physical activity. The recovery timeline varies for each person, but most individuals can expect a few weeks of initial healing, with gradual improvement over several months.
- Potential Risks and Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with transmasculine top surgery. These can include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, scarring, asymmetry, and complications related to anesthesia. It’s important to discuss these risks with a qualified surgeon and follow their pre- and post-operative instructions.
- Emotional and Psychological Support: Transmasculine top surgery is a significant step in a person’s gender transition. It’s essential to provide emotional support and access to mental health resources to help individuals navigate the emotional aspects of the surgery and the changes it brings.
It’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in transgender surgeries to discuss the specific details, expectations, and possible outcomes of transmasculine top surgery. They can provide personalized advice based on individual needs and preferences.