What Is Top Surgery: Candidacy, Scars, Recovery, & More

May 12, 2023 What Is Top Surgery?

Male chest reconstruction surgery, commonly known as female-to-male (FTM) top surgery, is an empowering and vital procedure for individuals seeking to align their physical appearance with their authentic gender identity. This transformative surgical intervention involves the removal of breast tissue, along with potential adjustments to nipple size and placement, ultimately culminating in the creation of a masculine chest. By undergoing FTM top surgery, individuals are able to feel like their body finally matches their truest selves.

Who Is A Good Candidate?

While some trans-men or nonbinary individuals prefer to bind their chest, others wish to undergo top surgery to permanently remove their breasts. If you identify with the following, then you may be a good candidate for top surgery:

• You must be 18 years old and under the care of a mental health professional who can provide a letter of recommendation supporting your decision to undergo surgery
• You must be physically healthy with no medical conditions that impair healing
• If you are a smoker, you must quit for at least 6 weeks before and after surgery
• You feel mentally prepared to part ways with your breasts
• You feel that your breasts get in the way of your true identity
• You understand that there is a risk that your nipples will lose sensation
• You have found a surgeon that makes you feel comfortable and confident in not only your top surgery decision, but also in your decision to continue your transition

Are There Different Top Surgery Incisions?

Yes. There are numerous incisions that you and your plastic surgeon will choose from when considering your desired outcome. During your consultation, you will discuss numerous top surgery incision options available to you along with the pros and cons of each option. 

1. Buttonhole Technique
2. Double Incision Technique
3. Inverted-T Technique
4. Keyhole Technique
5. Peri Areola Technique

If you currently have small breasts, then gynecomastia surgery may work well for you. However, if you have large breasts, then skin removal and nipple adjustment may be necessary. Here’s an example:

How Long Does Top Surgery Take?

The exact length of time will depend on the complexity of your case, but top surgery typically lasts between 2 to 5 hours under general anesthesia.

How Long Does It Take To Heal?

Patients will typically require about one week off from work. You will need to take it easy for about 4-6 weeks after undergoing top surgery which means no exercising or lifting anything over 5 pounds. Visit our recovery resources to help guide that process.

What Does A Top Surgery Scar Look Like?

Your exact scar placement will be determined by you and your plastic surgeon during your consultation. All scars take 1 year to fully mature and our team provides complimentary Silagen scar products at your 6 week post-op appointment. Here are a few examples of our patient’s scars for your reference throughout their healing journey: