Question 1

Candidates for Top Surgery

Accepted Answer

Transgender Men and Non-Binary Individuals
Seeking a flatter, more masculine chest through mastectomy or chest masculinization.
Experiencing discomfort or dysphoria related to their chest.
Desiring improved confidence and comfort in their appearance.
Transgender Women and Non-Binary Individuals
Wishing to enhance their chest with a fuller, feminine contour through breast augmentation.
Ideal for those with minimal natural breast tissue or those seeking a more defined feminine chest.

Key Eligibility Factors
- Stable Gender Identity: Living in their affirmed gender for a significant period (often recommended for 12 months, though requirements vary).
- Physical Health: Being in good general health, free from conditions that could increase surgical risks or delay healing.
- Age: Typically 18 or older; exceptions may be made for younger individuals with parental consent.
- Mental and Emotional Readiness: Prepared for the physical and emotional changes surgery entails, with access to support if needed.
Realistic Expectations: Understanding the limitations and potential outcomes of the procedure.

Question 2

Recovery And After Care

Accepted Answer

Recovery after top surgery requires careful adherence to post-operative guidelines for optimal healing and results. In the first week, focus on rest while incorporating light walking to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Wearing a compression garment helps minimize swelling, support the chest, and aid in contouring. Pain and swelling are common and can be managed with prescribed medications, while surgical drains, if used, should be emptied and maintained as instructed.

Over the next 2-4 weeks, youll gradually resume light activities, avoiding strenuous exercise or heavy lifting. Follow-up appointments will ensure proper healing and address concerns, with incisions needing to remain clean and protected. Swelling and bruising will start to subside, though some may persist.

By 1-3 months, most swelling diminishes, scars begin to fade, and the chest starts to take its final shape. Scar care, such as silicone sheets or creams, and sun protection are important to minimize scarring.

Full results can take 6-12 months, with a return to intense physical activities typically allowed after 6-8 weeks. Long-term care includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting scars from sun exposure, and attending regular follow-ups to ensure sustained results.

Question 3

General risk

Accepted Answer

Top surgery, like any surgical procedure, comes with potential risks. Although complications are rare with an experienced surgeon.

General Surgical Risks
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Rare but manageable with antibiotics if it occurs.
- Anesthesia Reactions: Some individuals may experience complications related to anesthesia.
- Scarring: Scars are a natural part of healing, though their visibility and severity can vary. Scar treatments can help minimize their appearance.
- Fluid or Blood Accumulation: Hematomas (blood pooling) or seromas (fluid buildup) may develop and require drainage.
- Changes in Sensation: Temporary or permanent alterations in chest or nipple sensitivity can occur due to nerve disruption.
- Asymmetry or Irregular Contours: Uneven chest appearance or unexpected contours may require revision surgery to address.
- Delayed Healing: Slow healing at incision sites may happen, especially in individuals with certain health conditions or habits like smoking.
- Nipple Complications: Partial or complete loss of nipple grafts or issues with positioning can occur in some cases.
- Unmet Expectations: Dissatisfaction with cosmetic results, though this risk can be minimized by clear communication about goals and realistic expectations.