Top Surgery and FFS Surgery by Centre for Surgery
Gender affirmation surgery, also known as gender confirmation surgery, is a transformative surgical process aimed at altering an individual’s physical and sexual characteristics to align with their gender identity. Historically referred to as Gender Reassignment Surgery (GRS) or Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS), these procedures are instrumental in addressing Gender Dysphoria, a psychological condition where an individual’s gender identity does not correspond with their birth-assigned gender.
At Centre for Surgery in London, we pride ourselves on our team of specialist plastic surgeons who possess extensive experience in performing gender surgeries, including top surgery for the breasts and chest.
Overview of Top Surgery
Top surgery is a pivotal aspect of gender affirmation, comprising two primary types: male-to-female (MTF) and female-to-male (FTM). The objective of this surgery varies depending on the individual’s gender transition goals. In MTF top surgery, the aim is to create a more feminine chest, often involving breast implants and fat grafting. Conversely, FTM top surgery focuses on removing breast tissue to achieve a more masculine chest appearance.
These surgical procedures play a significant role in the treatment of gender dysphoria, facilitating individuals in their journey towards aligning their physical appearance with their gender identity.
Exploring Facial Feminisation Surgery (FFS)
Facial Feminisation Surgery (FFS) forms a crucial component of gender plastic surgeries. FFS encompasses a range of procedures tailored to feminise facial features. These may include Adam’s apple reduction (tracheal shave) and other surgical interventions designed to soften and modify facial contours to reflect a more traditionally feminine appearance.
At Centre for Surgery, our commitment to excellence and compassionate care ensures that each patient receives a personalised approach, catering to their unique needs and aspirations in their gender affirmation journey. Our London-based facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experts in the field, making us a leading choice for individuals seeking gender affirmation and facial feminisation surgeries.
PROCEDURE GUIDE: Gender Affirmation Surgery
MTF Top Surgery
MTF top surgery is a type of male-to-female breast augmentation procedure designed to transform male chests into female breasts. The procedure can create a more feminine-looking appearance and is commonly used in conjunction with hormonal therapy for transgender females with more natural-looking female breasts. The size of the breasts can be enhanced with either breast implants or transfer. Both techniques can be combined in the same procedure for synergistic results in many cases.
FTM/N Top Surgery
Female to male (FTM) top surgery is also known as gender cosmetic mastectomy or transgender chest surgery. The procedure is designed to surgically remove female breasts to create a more masculine-looking appearance. There are several different techniques used, although all involve the removal of breast tissue and excess skin with repositioning of the nipple and areola.
Double Incision Top Surgery
Double incision top surgery, often chosen by transgender men and non-binary individuals, is a mastectomy technique designed to create a masculine chest contour. The procedure involves two horizontal incisions at the lower edge of the pectoral muscles where breast tissue is removed, and the chest is contoured. Nipples are resized and repositioned through grafting to align with the new chest shape. This outpatient procedure typically lasts about two hours, has visible scarring, but is beneficial for those with larger breasts or low skin elasticity. It plays a significant role in alleviating gender dysphoria and enhancing self-confidence.
Keyhole Top Surgery
Keyhole top surgery is a gender-affirming procedure ideal for transgender men and non-binary individuals with smaller breasts. In this procedure, an incision is made along the border of the areola, allowing for the removal of breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola. As no skin is removed, patients with high skin elasticity often achieve the best results. The procedure leaves minimal scarring and often preserves nipple sensation, offering an aesthetically pleasing, masculine chest contour. This outpatient surgery takes about two hours and plays a significant role in reducing gender dysphoria and improving body confidence.
Body Masculinisation Surgery
Body masculinisation surgery is a set of procedures aimed at aligning a person’s physical appearance with their gender identity. These surgeries are often sought by transgender men and non-binary individuals seeking a more traditionally masculine physique. Procedures can include chest masculinisation (top surgery), liposuction, body contouring, and tummy tuck among others. The goal is to reduce feminine curves, remove excess fat, and create a more masculine contour. These surgeries are typically permanent, with the final results depending on individual healing patterns, lifestyle choices, and the specific procedures performed.
Tracheal Shave – Adam’s Apple Surgery
Tracheal shave, also known as Adams apple reduction, is a cosmetic surgery aimed at reducing the size of the laryngeal prominence in the neck. This procedure is often sought by individuals desiring a less pronounced throat contour for reasons including gender transition or personal preference. During the surgery, a small incision is made and the thyroid cartilage is carefully reshaped, resulting in a smoother neck profile. Typically performed under general anaesthesia, it’s a relatively quick outpatient procedure with a straightforward recovery, offering permanent results for those who feel self-conscious about the prominence of their Adam’s apple.
