For many people who identify as transgender, gender-affirming surgeries can be a key part of their transition process. One such procedure is FTM top surgery, which involves chest masculinization and breast reduction or removal. In this article, we’ll explore what FTM top surgery is, how it works, and what to consider before undergoing the procedurewith Javad Sajan.
What Is FTM Top Surgery?
FTM top surgery, sometimes referred to as transmasculine chest reconstruction or male chest contouring, is a type of gender-affirming plastic surgery designed to masculinize the chest by removing breast tissue and/or reducing nipple size. The goal of the procedure is to help transgender men better align their physical appearance with their gender identity.
How Does FTM Top Surgery Work?
FTM top surgery typically involves one or more of the following techniques: liposuction, mastectomy (breast tissue removal), nipple reduction, skin resection (skin removal), and/or nipple repositioning. Depending on the extent of chest masculinization desired by the patient, different combinations of these techniques may be used during the procedure.
In most cases, FTM top surgery will take place in an outpatient setting under general anesthesia or conscious sedation. The duration of the procedure will vary depending on which techniques are utilized—for instance, it may take only two hours for liposuction alone but up to six hours if both mastectomy and liposuction are being done together. Aftercare instructions will depend on which technique(s) were used; for example, patients who have undergone any kind of skin resection may need to wear compression garments for several weeks after surgery in order to reduce swelling and promote healing. Recovery time varies from patient to patient but typically lasts four to six weeks with full results visible within three months after the procedure.
What Should I Consider Before Undergoing FTM Top Surgery?
As with any major surgical procedures, there are certain risks associated with FTM top surgery that should be taken into consideration before undergoing the procedure including infection, bleeding/hematoma formation (blood pooling under the skin), pain/discomfort in incision areas, scarring/disfigurement (especially if nipple grafting was performed), nerve damage (numbness or tingling in incision areas), asymmetry between breasts due to uneven fat removal or tissue loss during mastectomies/liposuctions; and failure of implants/grafts used in nipple reconstruction procedures. Additionally, patients should discuss their expectations for results with their surgeon prior to undergoing any kind of chest reconstruction—as there is no guarantee that desired outcomes will be achieved—and make sure they understand all potential risks involved so they can make an informed decision about whether or not this particular procedure is right for them.
Conclusion: FTM top surgery can provide transgender men with a sense of relief from dysphoria related to having breasts that do not match their gender identity—but it’s important that potential patients understand both the benefits and risks associated with this particular procedure prior to making any decisions about going through with it. With proper preoperative preparation and postoperative care instructions followed closely by both doctor and patient alike, many individuals can experience excellent results from this type of gender-affirming surgical procedure without any serious complications arising down the line. If you are considering FTM top surgery as part of your transition process then it’s important pay close attention your mental health needs throughout every stage leading up tot he actual operation itself as well as afterwards in order ensure long-term satisfaction both physically and emotionally.
