Gender Affirming Top Surgery - Masculine Chest in Dartmouth , MA

One of the most visible differences between the male and female body is the masculine chest versus the feminine breasts. Female to male (FTM) top surgery, also called male chest contouring, uses the subcutaneous mastectomy procedure to remove breast and fat tissue, then contours the chest muscles and repositions the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) for a masculine appearance. For larger breasts or patients with low skin elasticity, excess skin will also be removed so the chest skin is taut and firm. A large NAC may also be reduced before it is repositioned. Since the ideal male chest is not flat but slightly rounded from developed pectoral muscles, pectoral implants may be added for a more masculine chest. Call Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in Dartmouth, MA today to learn more. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Caroline Plamondon has helped countless men and women to achieve their cosmetic goals.

Top surgery is the most commonly performed gender reassignment surgery for transgender individuals. Although the decision is very personal, many transgender people say this procedure was a vital step toward alleviating their gender dysphoria and the key to being more comfortable with their appearance. During your private consultation with Dr. Plamondon, she will be able to answer all your questions and help determine if this procedure is right for you.

The are many surgical techniques that can be used in FTM top surgery and Dr. Plamondon will typically choose based on the starting size of the chest and your skin elasticity. All techniques preserve the patient’s natural nipple and areola, but the placement is usually changed to fit the new contour. Common subcutaneous mastectomy techniques include:

• Buttonhole Technique
• Double Incision
• Inverted T/T-Anchor
• Periareolar
• Keyhole
• Minimal Scar

FTM top surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure with the patient under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. After the surgery, you will be put in a compression vest that you should wear for at least 3 – 4 weeks to minimize bruising and swelling. Dr. Plamondon will go over any specific recovery instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to check your healing progress. Dr. Plamondon can also offer information on scar care management to help minimize the appearance of surgical scars.

How much does FTM top surgery cost?
The cost of female to male top surgery varies from patient to patient as it is designed with your specific goals in mind. During your consultation, we can create a treatment plan and discuss all your payment options. 

Other body surgeries?
To fully transform from a female body to a male, body contouring surgeries, like liposuction, can help to make the body more masculine. One of the most popular FTM body contouring surgeries removes fat from the hips, thighs, and buttocks since the male lower body is typically more narrow than the female.

Hormone replacement therapy before?
While patients are not required to be on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) before their FTM top surgery, it can give better results. The testosterone can help develop the patient’s pectoral muscles, which will create a more natural contour.

Breast cancer risk?
There is no clear answer on whether or not FTM top surgery reduces or eliminates the risk of breast cancer. While less breast tissue means a lower chance of cancer cells in the breast tissue, the higher levels of estrogen from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) typically increases the risk of breast cancer. Patients should continue to perform regular self-breast examinations and have their doctor perform a chest exam annually to check for abnormalities.

Avoiding dog ears?
“Dog ears” are often associated with FTM top surgery as a description of the excess skin and fat that can bulge out of the stitches. “Dog ears” can be avoided with extra liposuction during the procedure for the fat below the armpits and on the side of the chest. Patients can avoid developing “dog ears” after their surgery by maintaining a healthy, stable weight.

If you are thinking of taking the next step in your gender transformation, call Caroline J. Plamondon, M.D. Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in Dartmouth, MA. There is so much to consider based on your individual goals and body type. Dr. Plamondon will be happy to sit down with you to create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and desires. Call our office to schedule a private consult today.