Here are some things you can do if you have unrealistic expectations about the results of FTM top surgery:
- Talk to your surgeon. Your surgeon is the best person to help you understand what to expect from top surgery. They can discuss the different surgical techniques available and the risks and benefits of each. They can also show you before and after photos of their patients to give you a better idea of what the results might look like.
- Do your research. There is a lot of information available online about top surgery. You can read articles, watch videos, and talk to other people who have had top surgery. This will help you learn more about the procedure and what to expect.
- Be realistic about your goals. It’s important to be realistic about what you can achieve with top surgery. Top surgery can help you achieve a more masculine chest, but it’s not going to make you look like a cisgender man. It’s also important to remember that everyone’s body heals differently, so your results may not look exactly like someone else’s.
- Set realistic expectations for the recovery process. Top surgery is a major surgery, and it takes time to recover. You’ll need to take some time off from work and school, and you’ll need to be careful not to do anything that could put your healing at risk.
If you’re still having trouble managing your expectations, you may want to talk to a therapist or counselor who specializes in transgender issues. They can help you work through your feelings and develop a more realistic understanding of what to expect from top surgery.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
- Trans Lifeline: https://www.translifeline.org/
- Gender GP: https://gendergp.com/
- The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/
If you find that you have unrealistic expectations about the results of FTM top surgery, it’s important to address these concerns and manage your expectations in a realistic manner. Here are some steps you can take:
- Educate Yourself: Learn as much as you can about FTM top surgery, including the potential outcomes, limitations, and realistic expectations. Consult reliable sources such as reputable medical websites, books, and articles. Understanding the possibilities and limitations of the procedure can help you set realistic expectations.
- Consult with a Qualified Surgeon: Schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon who specializes in FTM top surgery. During the consultation, openly discuss your expectations and concerns. A skilled surgeon will provide you with an honest assessment of what can be achieved based on your individual circumstances and explain any limitations or potential challenges.
- View Before and After Photos: Looking at before and after photos of previous FTM top surgery patients can give you a better idea of what is realistically achievable. This can help align your expectations with the typical outcomes of the procedure.
- Seek Support: Engage with support groups, online communities, or counseling services that focus on transgender health and FTM top surgery. Connecting with others who have gone through or are going through similar experiences can provide valuable insights and help manage expectations.
- Emotional Preparation: Recognize that FTM top surgery is a significant step in your transition, but it may not resolve all aspects of your gender dysphoria or completely change how you feel about your body. It’s important to address any underlying emotional expectations or concerns through therapy or counseling.
- Realistic Timeframe: Understand that the results of FTM top surgery take time to fully manifest. Your body needs time to heal, and scars will continue to mature over several months to a year. Give yourself realistic expectations regarding the timeline for seeing the final results.
- Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your surgeon and healthcare team throughout the process. Discuss any concerns or questions you may have and seek clarification on any aspects that are unclear to help manage your expectations effectively.
Remember, every individual’s experience with FTM top surgery is unique, and results can vary. Managing your expectations and having a realistic outlook can contribute to a more positive surgical experience and overall satisfaction with the results.