Am I a Good Candidate for Male to Female Top Surgery?
A good candidate for Male to Female (MTF) top surgery is an individual who identifies as transgender and is seeking breast augmentation for a feminine chest appearance. While specific criteria can vary based on the Surgeon’s evaluation and the patient’s unique circumstances, here are some general considerations for potential candidates;
- You are over 18 years of age
- You are under the care of a Psychologist or Psychiatrist
- You are In good physical and mental health.
- Hormonal therapy alone has not helped to give you your preferred breast size.
- You want a more feminine shape of your breast.
- You are realistic about the outcome of the surgery
- You do not smoke
What are the reasons of Male to Female Top Surgery?
Male to Female Top Surgery, which involves breast augmentation to create a feminine chest appearance, offers several potential reasons. Some of the key reasons of Male to Female (MTF) top surgery include;
- Body Alignment: Getting a more feminine chest shape may help align the body with one’s gender identity.
- Alleviation of Gender Dysphoria: Gender dysphoria is a disconnect between an individual’s gender identity and their physical characteristics. Male to Female Top Surgery may reduce the discomfort and distress associated with having a masculine chest.
It is important to note that the reasons of Male to Female Top Surgery can be deeply personal and may vary from individual to individual. The decision to undergo this procedure should be based on an individual’s goals, needs, and desires and it often forms part of a broader gender transition process. A consultation with a qualified, experienced Surgeon and discussions with a Gender Therapist can help individuals make informed choices and create a treatment plan that aligns with their unique journey
What to Expect During Male to Female Top Surgery?
Male to Female Top Surgery is a surgical procedure designed to change the chest appearance of transgender individuals. The specific details of the surgery can vary based on the individual’s goals, anatomy and the surgical technique chosen but here is a general overview of what to expect during the procedure:
Anaesthesia: On the day of the surgery, you will be placed under General Anaesthetic.
Incision Placement: Your surgeon will make incisions based on the chosen technique and your anatomy. Common incision options include; Inframammary incisions (Made along the breast crease beneath the breasts) and Periareolar incisions (made around the edge of the areola).
Implant Placement: Your Surgeon will create pockets for the breast implants, either behind the chest muscles (submuscular placement) or in front of them (subglandular placement), depending on your specific situation and goals.
Breast Implant Insertion: The chosen breast implants are inserted into the pockets.
Incision Closure: Once the implants are in place, the incisions are carefully closed with sutures.
Recovery: After the surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor you until you are able to go home.
Risks and Complications
Like all invasive surgery, Male-to-Female Top Surgery carries risks and potential complications. Some of the risks and complications can include but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Poor wound healing
- Scarring
- Changes in sensation
- Asymmetry
- Seroma
- Haematoma
- Nipple and areolar complications
- Anesthesia Risks
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
- Cardiovascular and Respiratory Complications
- Unsatisfactory results
- Implant-Related Complications including rupture, leakage and capsular contracture
- Need for revision surgery
It is important for individuals considering surgery to have an in depth consultation with a specialised surgical team and mental health professionals experienced in gender-affirming care. This allows for a full understanding of potential risks and benefits and helps individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare. Following pre-operative and post-operative instructions and having a support system in place can contribute to a smoother recovery process.
All surgery has risks – for detailed information about the risks and potential complications please visit the risks of surgery page.
Recovery
Typically the recovery period involves post operative care including pain management, wound healing, and wearing compression garments. Patients will likely experience some level of swelling, bruising, and discomfort.
After surgery your chest will be wrapped and compressed for several weeks following the surgery. Some additional precautions that need to be taken after the procedure include; avoiding heavy lifting or chest exercises for up to three months and sleeping in an elevated position for a few weeks.
Attend all scheduled follow up appointments with your Surgeon. These visits are essential for monitoring your progress and addressing any concerns or questions you may have. Follow your Surgeon’s recommendations for scar care, which may include using scar creams or silicone sheets and undergoing laser scar treatment.
Remember that the specific recovery timeline can vary from person to person and individual experiences may differ. Your Surgeon will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions and it is important to follow them closely for the best possible outcome. Open communication with your surgeon and a commitment to your recovery plan will help ensure a smooth and successful recovery from Surgery.
How much does Male to Female Top Surgery Cost?
The price usually depends on the type of surgery you are having. In general, the typical cost of gender affirmation top surgery can range from $12,000 to $20,000 or more. However, the costs depend on the different techniques done, the hormone therapy and further follow-ups as well as surgeon and hospital fee.
Medicare typically covers medically necessary services and procedures. Whether Male to Female Top Surgery is considered medically necessary and eligible for coverage can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific requirements of Medicare and your surgeon will be able to advise on this.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical lifespan of Breast Implants?
- Your implants on an average can last anywhere between 10-20 years.
- However most surgeons will suggest you remove and replace your implants around the ten-year mark.
- You may choose to have your implants taken out earlier if you have;
- Cosmetic concerns
- Want to change the size, type and shape of the current implants
- Or complications arise.
When should I remove my breast implants?
- You may need to remove the implants if:
- Hardening of implants occurs due to capsular contracture, which gives rise to pain, tenderness and cosmetic appearance.
- A saline rupture in either breast; This can cause the breast implant to deflate and lose it’s shape and size which can be quiet a dramatic difference when a comparison is made to the other breast.
- Silicone rupture giving rise to symptoms like decreased breast size, breast asymmetry, hard lump formation, pain, swelling and loss of sensation around the breast. Most cases of silicone rupture, however, remain asymptomatic.
- Change in position of the implant causing stretching and loose skin around your breast leading to one breast lower than the other.
At what age can I get top surgery?
- You can get top surgery at the age of 18 and older.
- In some cases, patients under 18 may be eligible but only with the parents’ consent.
Is Top surgery a major surgery?
- Yes, top surgery is a major surgery with risks and complications.
- Consult your Specialist Plastic Surgeon with any concerns you may have and make sure you fully understand the implications of a gender reassignment surgery.
Can you get top surgery if you’re Non-Binary?
- Top surgery is available to all people who would like to change their breast shape and size.
- It includes one or more of the following; breast reconstruction, breast augmentation, breast reduction or nipple reduction.
How long do you stay in the hospital after top surgery?
- You should stay in the hospital for at least 3 to 5 days post-op or even longer if your surgeon deems it necessary.
- A lengthy hospital stay makes it easier to have post-op checkups and appointments.
Why Choose Coco Ruby Plastic Surgery?
Not all Surgeons have the same experience or intensive training and testing qualifications. Be sure you learn the differences between a Plastic Surgeon, a General Surgeon, a Cosmetic Surgeon or other types of Surgeon.
Choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon means you are choosing an accredited recognised plastic surgeon that performs surgery in an accredited hospital. Look for members of FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) memberships. ASPS (Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons) ASAPS (Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) or ISAPS (International Society Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) as some of the Qualifications of your Plastic Surgeon.
How to Book your Initial Consultation
- Email us below or Call on (03) 8849 1400 to arrange your surgeon consultation appointment OR
- A Referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or from your Medical Specialist is required (as of 1st July 2023).
- A consultation with one of our surgeons is $300.00
