MTF Top Surgery: Everything You Need To Know | ENBYNYC

Author: Pedro Santos
Date: 28-October-2022
If you're considering undergoing gender affirming hormone therapy or MTF top surgery, also known as gender confirmation surgery, you're probably wondering what the procedure entails and what the recovery process is like.
Here's everything you need to know about MTF top surgery, from the consultation process to the final results.
Table of Contents
What is MTF top surgery?
MTF top surgery is also known as breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty. It is a surgical procedure that involves the placement of silicone implants to create the appearance of breasts.
This surgery can also be combined with nipple/areola reconstruction, skin reduction, and liposuction. If you are considering top surgery, it's important to understand all of your options so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this type of surgery fits within your budget and expectations.
Here's everything you need to know about MTF top surgery:
MTF top surgery options include:
- Breast augmentation or breast implants with silicone or saline implants
- Breast lift
- Nipple/areola reconstruction
- Skin reduction or breast tissue growth
- Liposuction
The consultation process of MTF top surgery or breast augmentation procedure
Before you undergo MTF top surgery, you will first meet with a surgeon for a consultation. During this visit, your surgeon will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical examination.
They will also discuss your goals and expectations for surgery. It's important to be honest with your surgeon about your goals so that they can provide you with realistic information about what surgery can and cannot do for you.
After the consultation, you will be given time to make a decision about whether or not you want to proceed with surgery. If you decide to move forward, your surgeon will schedule a pre-operative appointment.
This visit will include a final physical examination and any necessary blood tests or other diagnostic tests. You will also have an opportunity to ask any remaining questions that you may have about the surgery.
MTF top surgery requirements
- Age requirement: 18 years old
- Gender identity requirement: male-to-female
- Mental health requirement: diagnosed with gender dysphoria (a condition in which a person experiences discomfort with their biological sex and/or identifies as a different gender)
- Transitioning requirement: living as a woman for at least one year before breast surgery enlargement or MTF top surgery.
Treating gender dysphoria can be difficult, but there are ways to manage it. For more information, check out our blog.
MTF top surgery procedure
MTF top surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The specific details of the procedure will vary depending on the surgeon and the patient's individual goals and anatomy. However, all MTF top surgery procedures involve the placement of implants to create the natural appearance of feminine breasts.
After making incisions, either in the crease beneath the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary), your surgeon will insert silicone or saline implant placement into your chest. The type of implant used will be based on your preferences and your surgeon's recommendations.
Once the implants are in place, your surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and apply a dressing to your chest. A tube may also be placed beneath the skin to drain any excess fluid.
How to prepare for MTF top surgery procedure
There are several things that you can do to prepare for MTF top surgery. First, it's important to choose a surgeon who is experienced in performing this type of surgery. You will also want to make sure that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for the surgery.
There are several things that you can do to prepare for MTF top surgery. First, it's important to choose a surgeon who is experienced in performing this type of surgery. You will also want to make sure that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for the surgery.
If you are taking hormone therapy, you will need to discontinue use at least two weeks prior to surgery. It's also important to have a support system in place before and after surgery. This may include friends, family, or a support group for transgender individuals.
Your surgeon can also provide you with resources and information about support groups in your area.
Finally, it's important to follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions. These may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and fasting for a period of time before surgery.
Recovery tips MTF top surgery: male to female top surgery involves
There are several things that you can do to help ensure a smooth recovery after MTF top surgery. First, it's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions. This includes taking all of your medications as prescribed and attending all of your follow-up appointments.
- Don’t shower: You will need to avoid showering for at least a week after surgery. This helps to prevent infection and allows your incisions to heal properly.
- Use ice packs: Applying ice packs to your chest can help to reduce pain and swelling.
- Don’t lift or do heavy exercise: You will need to avoid lifting anything heavy for at least up to six weeks or participating in strenuous exercise for at least six weeks after surgery.
- Sleep on your back: Sleeping on your back helps to prevent putting pressure on your chest and helps you to avoid rolling over onto your stomach.
Male to Female top surgery results
MTF top surgery results will vary depending on the individual. However, most people are very satisfied with their results. In general, MTF top surgery can help to create a more feminine appearance and improve self-esteem and quality of life, and overall transgender health.
If you have any concerns or questions about your results, be sure to discuss them with your surgeon. They can provide you with guidance and support as you adjust to your new appearance.
What are some possible risks and complications of MTF top surgery?
There are potential risks associated with any surgery. Complications after MTF top surgery are rare but can occur. These may include infection, bleeding, scar tissue buildup, or a reaction to the anesthesia.
It's also possible for the breast implants to become displaced after surgery. This may require another surgery to put them back in place.
The results of MTF top surgery are typically very good. Most people are very satisfied with their new appearance after surgery. However, it's important to keep in mind that it may take several months for the final results to be visible.
In the meantime, you can expect to see an improvement in the contours of your chest and a more feminine shape. You may also notice that your clothing fits better and that you feel more confident in your appearance.
MTF top surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can help transgender women feel more comfortable in their bodies. If you are considering this surgery, be sure to consult with a qualified surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.
How much does top surgery cost?
Top surgery costs vary depending on the surgeon, but they're usually in the neighborhood of $30,000-40,000. In some cases, insurance will cover part or all of this cost—but if you don't have health insurance through work or your own personal policy and are looking to save money on top surgery (or just not risk paying out-of-pocket), this is something to consider.
If you do want coverage for your mastectomy and chest reconstruction procedures, check with your insurance company before scheduling an appointment at a clinic or hospital near where you live so that they know exactly what type of procedure(s) are being performed.
Where can I find a support group or community where I can talk to other people who have had or want top surgery?
There are many ways to find a community or support group that you can attend. You can search online, talk with friends or family members who have had top surgery, or ask your doctor if they have recommendations for other options.
You may also want to look into local organizations in your area that offer support groups for those with MTF top surgery (like the Trans Individual Support Groups International). In some cases, these groups may be run by medical professionals and therefore not necessarily open to all members of the public.
However, if it's important for you to be able to talk openly about your experiences without fear of judgment from others, then these types of organizations could be ideal for meeting like-minded individuals who understand what it feels like going through such an event in their lives!
Conclusion
We know that your journey is unique and you deserve as much information in order to make the best informed decision. Whether or not the MTF top surgery procedure is right for you, we can help guide you along the way.
Pedro Santos is a professional fitness coach, founder, and CEO of ENBYNYC, He is committed to creating a safe and welcoming space for trans people and amplifying their voices. To learn more about him visit his bio.