Jan 11, 2023

Exploring FTM Top Surgery: What to Expect

If you are considering top surgery as part of your transition from female to male, you likely have many questions. What will the surgery entail? How long will it take to recover? What are the risks involved?

In this blog post, we will explore these and other questions about FTM top surgery. We will also provide a detailed overview of the procedure itself so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this surgery is right for you.

What is FTM top surgery?

FTM (female-to-male) top surgery is a transformative process for transgender men. It involves the removal of breast tissue and reshaping of the chest to create a more masculine appearance. The goal of this procedure is to create an aesthetic outcome that reflects a man's gender identity, resulting in an overall sense of well-being and perhaps even more peak-intensity freedom.

This process often works in conjunction with hormone therapy and can vary from person to person depending on individual expectations, anatomy, degree of masculinity desired, and other factors. While there are many reasons why transgender men may seek out FTM top surgery, it remains an essential part of the transitioning process and can lead to increased self-confidence and social acceptance.

What Are the Different Types of Top Surgery for FTM Patients

1. Double Incision Top Surgery

Double incision top surgery is one of the most common types of top surgery a person can undergo. This type of surgery involves making two incisions around the chest area, which results in two scars. The goal of this type of surgery is to make the chest look more masculine, either by removing breast tissue or by creating a more masculine-looking chest wall.

Generally speaking, most patients who get this type of surgery tend to be happier with their aesthetic outcome than if they had chosen other forms of top surgery such as those performed on an outpatient basis.

Although the recovery time for double incision top surgery is longer than that for other types of top surgery, it is often more effective in creating a smoother and flatter-looking chest than other methods. Ultimately, double incision remains a popular choice because it offers greater femininity and natural-looking results.

2. Peri-Areolar Top Surgery

Peri-areolar top surgery is a procedure that involves the surgical removal of excess breast tissue and skin. The procedure is designed to create a more masculine-looking chest by dramatically reducing the size of the breasts. This type of chest masculinization also helps to improve self-esteem and overall quality of life. Peri-areolar top surgery is particularly beneficial for those who identify as male but have not yet started hormone therapy or are unable to receive hormone therapy due to age restrictions or medical contraindications.

It's important to understand the risks associated with this major surgery, as it can cause permanent numbness in the nipples and scar around the areolae; however, many patients find it worth taking these risks for the benefits of a slimmer, more natural-looking chest. Overall, peri-areolar top surgery can produce amazing results that provide gender affirmation, improved self-esteem, and higher quality of life for those who undergo it!

3. Keyhole Top Surgery

Keyhole top surgery makes up a big percentage of the different types of top surgery, which is becoming increasingly popular. This procedure frequently involves an incision around the areola, which helps preserve nerve and blood vessels while giving a natural and aesthetically pleasing result by avoiding larger chest scars. Keyhole top surgery is ideal for trans men who want to hide their results or don’t have much natural breast tissue.

The procedure also carries fewer risks than other forms of top surgery as it has less impact on surrounding muscles, meaning shorter recovery time for those who have it done - sometimes just days. While this type of top surgery does come with some limitations regarding size and certain types of implants, overall it is a great option for those wanting to transition from female to male bodies who need minimal scars.

4. Inverted-T Top Surgery

Inverted-T Top Surgery is one of the different types of top surgery, and it is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after procedures available. This technique aims to resculpt the chest to create a masculine silhouette, using an incision pattern that consists of like letters - a horizontal line followed by two vertical lines, forming something that looks like an inverted “T”. While any type of top surgery comes with its unique risks, for those looking for a more drastic change this type may be their only option.

Chest reconstruction surgery is a major undertaking, and it is essential for patients to understand the risks involved. Consulting a reconstructive surgeon is highly recommended for this procedure, as well as counseling with a psychologist or psychiatrist to ensure that the patient is mentally prepared for the changes.

It can provide full removal of breast tissue and change in size and shape all around, allowing people to feel comfortable with their gender expression on their own terms at last. It’s never too late to take control of how you feel and how the world perceives you; Inverted-T Top Surgery could be your answer.

5. Liposuction Top Surgery

Liposuction top surgery offers patients a more tailored approach to their cosmetic needs. This type of procedure uses a vacuum-assisted device inserted through small incisions in the skin, which then breaks up fat cells and suctions them out. During this surgical procedure, fatty areas can be ‘sculpted’ by removing tiny bits of fat from strategic locations on the body. It’s an ideal solution for patients who want to access certain areas that may not be amenable to traditional procedures, such as tight crevices or awkward angles. Additionally, the patient doesn't have to worry about any major changes in the physical structure after the procedure is complete.

Results are typically seen within weeks and generally last for life provided that the patient maintains healthy lifestyle habits like proper diet and exercise.
Liposuction top surgery is erasing blurs and gives shape with exceptional accuracy — making it easier to achieve desired physical appearance without unwanted laxity or loose skin after healing.

Benefits of FTM Top Surgery for FTM Patients

Improve Self Esteem

For many transgender men, top surgery is an important step in their transition. Top surgery can help to alleviate the discomfort that many transgender men feel, as well as help them to feel more comfortable in their bodies. Additionally, top surgery can help transgender men become who they see themselves as and live joyful life, which can be important for those who wish to live full-time as a man. This can provide a great boost to confidence and self-esteem.

Improve Mental Health.

Transgender men who have undergone top surgery often report improvements in their mental health. One study found that after undergoing top surgery, transgender men had a significant decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, many transgender men report an increase in self-esteem and body satisfaction after having top surgery. A mental health provider can be an invaluable resource in the process of transitioning and can provide support before and after top surgery.

Help Transgender Men to Physically Transition.

In addition to helping transgender men feel more comfortable in their bodies, top surgery can also help them to physically transition. For example, top surgery can help to masculinize the chest, which can make it easier for transgender men to bind their chests or wear masculine clothing. Additionally, top surgery can create a more masculine appearance, which can be important for those who wish to pass as their desired gender.

Top Surgery Is a Relatively Safe and Common Procedure.

Top surgery procedures are a relatively safe and common procedure that is performed on thousands of people each year, both transgender and non-transgender alike. The vast majority of people who have top surgery experience no complications from the procedure and are able to return to their normal activities for at least a week. Additionally, there are a number of skilled surgeons who perform top surgery, so it is generally easy to find a qualified surgeon near you. Health insurance plans may also cover some or all of the cost of top surgery.

Alleviate Gender Dysphoria

For many transgender men, gender dysphoria is a major source of distress. FTM top surgery can help to alleviate this distress by allowing them to more closely resemble their desired gender. Additionally, top surgery can also help to reduce the discomfort that many transgender men feel in their chests due to binding or wearing restrictive clothing. By reducing these sources of distress, top surgery can help transgender men feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Risks of FTM Top Surgery

Excessive Bleeding During Surgery

One of the risks of FTM top surgery is excessive bleeding during the procedure. This can occur if the surgeon accidentally nicks a blood vessel or if there is an unexpected bleed from one of the incisions. Excessive bleeding can lead to complications such as infection, hematoma, or seroma. To reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery, it is important to choose an experienced surgeon who has performed many successful top surgeries.

Infection

Another risk of FTM top surgery is infection. This can occur at the incision site or deep within the tissue if bacteria enter the body through the surgical wound. Infection can cause fever, redness, swelling at the incision site, and drainage from the wound. If left untreated, the infection can spread throughout the body and cause serious illness. General anesthesia increases the risk of infection, so it is important to follow all instructions given to you by your surgeon before and after the procedure.

Scarring

FTM top surgery can result in scarring. This can range from faint red lines at the incision sites to more noticeable raised keloid scars. In some cases, the surgery procedures themselves can also cause discoloration of the skin. To reduce the risk of scarring on chest surgery, it is important to follow all instructions given by your surgeon before and after surgery to allow for proper healing.

Seroma

A seroma is a collection of clear fluid that occurs under the skin after surgery. It happens when fluid leaks from the surgical site and accumulates in the surrounding tissue. Seromas can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness at the site. If left untreated, a seroma can become infected and lead to serious complications.

What should you do before and after your surgery to ensure a smooth recovery process?

Taking proper care of yourself is essential for a successful recovery from top surgery. Before you go into surgery, it's important to focus on nutrition and exercise. Eating healthy and exercising helps to reduce stress and can strengthen the immune system. Make sure to get adequate rest so that your body is as prepared as it can be. Additionally, it may help to have someone come with you to the hospital because they can provide moral support and keep track of any instructions the doctor may have given you once your surgery is completed.

After surgery, the most important thing is to get plenty of rest so that your body has time to heal itself - this process may be longer or shorter depending on the severity of your procedure. If pain persists after a reasonable amount of time, contact your doctor for advice. Be sure not to do anything strenuous unless it is medically recommended; strenuous activities like physical labor or athletics should be avoided until instructed otherwise by a medical professional. World professional association standards should be followed for post-surgery care, including proper wound care, movement restrictions, and bathing instructions.

Remember to take medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor to prevent potential complications from arising, such as infection. If problems occur during recovery, follow up quickly with your physician for advice on how best to proceed. By being proactive about managing the post-operative process, you can ensure an optimal outcome for your specific situation.

Final Thoughts

FTM top surgery is a major medical procedure that requires careful consideration and preparation. It does not increase the risk of breast cancer, as the breast tissue is completely removed during the procedure. Risks of the surgery include excessive bleeding, infection, hematoma, seroma, and nerve damage.

It's important to take proper care of yourself before and after your surgery in order to minimize the risks and ensure a successful recovery. As always, speak to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the surgery. With the right preparation and care, FTM top surgery can be a safe and effective way to achieve your desired outcome.