Female to Male FTM Top Surgery in Sydney by Dr Kernohan
Female to Male Top Surgery is also known as Transgender Chest Surgery or Gender Cosmetic Mastectomy. FTM Top Surgery is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the breasts to give patients a more masculine chest profile. The surgery not only includes the removal of tissue and skin but also repositioning and reconstruction of the nipple.
Top surgery for transgender men and nonbinary people is done as a part of the gender transition process (previously known as gender reassignment surgery). It can help patients on their journey to match their physical characteristics to their self-affirmed gender.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Michael Kernohan performs breast surgery in Sydney Australia and can help you with FTM Top Gender Affirmation Surgery.
What is FTM Top Surgery?
The goal of FTM Top Surgery is to remove excess breast tissue and skin and reposition the nipples and areola to create a more masculine-looking chest. The surgical approach used depends on the physical appearance of the patient and specific characteristics. Larger breasts can require a more complex breast reduction technique compared to breasts that are smaller in size.
Benefits of FTM Top Surgery
Here are some potential benefits of FTM Top Surgery:
1. Alignment with Gender Identity
The surgery can help individuals feel more at ease in their own bodies, which can be an important step in the gender transition process.
2. Body Proportions
The procedure can help balance body proportions, contributing to an overall masculine silhouette.
3. Masculine Chest Appearance
The surgery helps create a more traditionally masculine chest contour, which can align physical appearance with gender identity.
4. Lower Risk of Breast Cancer
Eliminating the glandular tissue can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Dr Kernohan’s FTM Top Surgery Photo Gallery
Taking a look at previous FTM Top Surgery procedures can give you an idea of what to expect. You can see Dr Kernohan’s past patient photos during your consultation.
Is FTM Top Surgery Right for Me?
FTM Top Surgery might be a good choice if you:
- Have realistic expectations from the procedure
- Are in good physical health
- Are in good mental health
- Have a well-documented case of gender dysphoria
- Do not smoke or can quit it for at least three weeks before and after the surgery
- Are 18 years old or above
Top Surgery Consultation
Before the surgery, you will be required to come in for the consultation. This is your time to ask any questions that you might have. Make sure to discuss all your concerns and expectations with Dr Kernohan.
You will also need to have appropriate psych support and WPATH paperwork done before surgery.
The FTM Top Surgery Procedure
Based on your health and medical history, you will be handed over a list of pre-operative instructions to follow which might include:
- Do not eat or drink anything for a period of 12 hours prior to the operation
- Avoid blood thinning medications for at least 2 weeks before the surgery
- Do not smoke for at least a month before starting the FTM surgery
- Avoid drinking alcohol for at least 2 weeks prior to the surgery
The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia which means you will be asleep through the procedure. The surgery involves creating an incision around the chest, removal of breast tissues and skin, and closure of the sutures.
Depending on the size, and shape of the breasts, nipples and areolas, Dr Kernohan will help recommend the surgical technique. Some of the most used techniques for FTM Top Surgery are discussed below:
1. Double Incision with Free Nipple Grafts
Also known as bilateral mastectomy and may be suitable if you have a medium to large chest with ptosis (excess, loose skin). The use of this technique involves a horizontal or curved incision that is created on the upper as well as the lower border of the chest muscle. Dr Kernohan will detach the skin to expose the fat and glandular tissue and remove it. Another incision will be made to remove and resize the nipples which are then grafted back into a correct position on the chest wall.
This surgical approach is often used when the nipples sit lower than the fold beneath the chest. This allows for efficient grafting and repositioning. It is expected to lose some sensation in the nipples post-surgery. To complete the procedure, the skin will be sutured below the pectoral muscle.
2. Inverted T-surgery or T-anchor
This technique can be suitable for patients with large breasts and excess skin. The incision resembles an inverted T shape or anchor shape. Dr Kernohan will keep the nipple and areola on a pedicle of skin, which means there are few chances of dealing with loss of sensation after the surgery. An additional vertical incision is also made during this process. The advantage of this technique over double incision is that there is a lower risk of experiencing nipple loss. As some level of tissue is left behind, the results are not as flat when compared to double incision surgery.
3. Keyhole Top Surgery
If you have a smaller chest, this may be the surgical approach for you. As evident from the name, Dr Kernohan will create a small incision that resembles a keyhole under the lower border of the areola and he will use it to remove the underlying tissue. With this technique, patients can expect a high level of flatness and the nipple also remains intact.
Recovery From Female to Male Top Surgery
FTM Top Surgery is a major surgery which essentially means that you will need time to recover. During the recovery phase, be sure to follow all Dr Kernohan’s instructions to reduce the likelihood of complications.
You will likely experience some pain and stiffness for the first few days after the surgery. The first couple of days are going to be the most difficult. Make sure to take all medication as prescribed by your surgeon.
Most people are able to return to work in about 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery. This varies depending on the choice of surgical technique as well as your overall health. Sleep on your back for at least 10 days and avoid putting pressure on your chest. In certain cases, drains will be placed at the level of the chest to prevent fluid accumulation.
Risks of FTM Top Surgery
FTM Top Surgery is a complex procedure and carries certain risks. During your consultation, you will be informed of any risks.
Some of the risks include; poor wound healing, seroma, fluid accumulation in the breast area, hematoma, swelling, blood clotting underneath the skin, nipple necrosis, fat tissue necrosis, scarring in varying degrees, asymmetry, and general dissatisfaction with the results.
Cost of FTM Top Surgery in Sydney – How Much FTM Top Surgery Costs in Sydney?
The cost of FTM Top surgery depends on the experience and qualifications of the surgeon, facility, technique used, and the overall complexity of the procedure. In Sydney, FTM Top Surgery cost can range from $10,000 to $20,000.
In certain cases, Medicare might cover a part of the surgery. If that’s the case, you can also connect with your health insurance provider to cover some of the charges. In case, your claim isn’t approved by Medicare, you will have to cover the full cost of surgery yourself.
Learn more about plastic surgery fees on Dr Kernohan’s pricing page. Alternatively, you can contact Dr Kernohan’s team for a price estimate or to set up an appointment.
FAQs about FTM Top Surgery
Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding FTM Top Surgery:
