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MTF (Male to Female) breast augmentation is a significant milestone in the journey of transition for numerous transgender women in the UK. A pertinent query that often arises in this context is whether feminising hormone therapy, primarily comprising oestrogen, is essential for proceeding with MTF/N (Male to Female/Non-Binary) breast augmentation surgery. In concise terms, it is not mandatory. Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind several factors in order to make an informed decision regarding whether to opt for MTF breast augmentation in conjunction with oestrogen hormone supplements, or to proceed without them.
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Centre for Surgery, the leading specialist plastic surgery clinic for transgender surgery, has a solid reputation in the field of gender affirmation surgery. Situated on the iconic Baker Street in the heart of London, our clinic is a sanctuary for those seeking surgical expertise in gender transition. The Baker Street facility is notably a specialist hub, and is home to some of the United Kingdom’s foremost experts in gender affirmation surgery. This assemblage of consummate professionals is dedicated to providing impeccable service and guidance to individuals traversing the pivotal journey of gender affirmation.
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What Is Feminising Hormone Therapy?
Feminising hormone therapy, often interchangeably referred to as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), is essentially what its designation suggests. This therapeutic process entails the substitution of the predominant hormones in one’s physiology with hormones that are more congruous with one’s gender identity. For transgender women, who likely have male hormones as the dominant hormone, this therapy is pivotal in aiding their transition.
In the context of a male-to-female transition, feminising hormone therapy typically involves a two-pronged approach. Firstly, an anti-androgen medication is administered in order to inhibit the production of male hormone. The rationale behind this is to curtail the effects of the hormone, which is primarily responsible for the development and maintenance of male secondary sexual characteristics. Subsequently, oestrogen is introduced to supplant the reduced male hormone. Oestrogen is quintessential in facilitating the development of female secondary sexual characteristics such as breast development, redistribution of body fat, and changes in skin texture.
In essence, feminising hormone therapy is a critical component in the transition process for transgender women, as it helps to align their physical attributes more closely with their gender identity by modulating the hormonal milieu within their bodies. It is important to note that this therapy should be undertaken under the supervision of a medical professional, who can guide the individual through the process and monitor for any potential side-effects or complications.
What role does oestrogen therapy play in MTF Top Surgery?
Oestrogen plays a notably integral role in the process of MTF (Male to Female) breast augmentation, its influence being felt even before the surgical procedure takes place. It is typically suggested that MTF patients commence feminising hormone therapy approximately a minimum of 12 months prior to their planned breast augmentation, in order to fully optimise the outcome of the surgery.
The principal advantage of this approach is that the introduction of oestrogen stimulates the independent growth of the patient’s breasts and nipples, thereby reducing the reliance on implants. Over an extended period, this hormone is instrumental in bringing about a substantial transformation in the size and shape of the breasts, a process that transpires slowly and gradually.
For optimal results, it is advised that you allow a minimum period of 12 to 18 months for your breasts to develop and mature under the influence of hormone therapy. However, it is important to recognise that there is a limit to the extent of growth that your breasts can achieve solely under the influence of hormones. Consequently, if you aspire to accomplish more voluminous results, the combination of feminising hormone therapy with MTF breast augmentation surgery is most likely the most favourable pathway for you.
Beyond increasing the size of your nipples, oestrogen plays an instrumental role in facilitating the expansion of your chest skin. Consequently, if you undergo MTF top surgery, the presence of oestrogen in your body will aid in achieving a more natural-looking implant than if the surgery were performed on a flat chest.
Our surgeon will guide you in establishing the most suitable timeline for your specific situation. However, it is generally advised to moderate your intake of oestrogen before MTF Top surgery to mitigate the risk of blood clot formation (DVT/PE) during the procedure. After an adequate period of recovery following the MTF breast augmentation, you can gradually recommence your regimen of oestrogen intake through feminising hormone therapy, under the guidance of our expert team.
Benefits of Oestrogen Therapy before MTF Breast Augmentation
Taking oestrogen prior to undergoing MTF (Male to Female) breast augmentation can confer a plethora of benefits that contribute to more favourable and natural-looking outcomes post-surgery. Here, we delineate some of the key advantages:
- Breast Development: One of the most significant benefits of taking oestrogen before MTF breast augmentation is that it stimulates the natural growth of breast tissue. This hormone induces the development of the mammary glands, resulting in the enlargement of the breasts.
- Enhanced Skin Elasticity: Oestrogen can improve the elasticity and texture of the skin. When it comes to breast augmentation, this means that the skin around the breast area becomes more pliable and capable of accommodating the implants or the newly developed tissue, leading to a more natural appearance.
- Fat Redistribution: Oestrogen influences the distribution of fat in the body. For MTF individuals, this hormone aids in the redistribution of fat to areas such as the breasts and hips, which can contribute to a more feminine silhouette.
- Nipple and Areola Development: Oestrogen not only affects the size of the breasts but also contributes to the growth and development of the nipples and areolae. This is essential for achieving a balanced and proportionate look after breast augmentation.
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- Improved Surgical Planning: When a patient has undergone hormone therapy and experienced some breast growth, it provides the surgeon with additional information for surgical planning. The surgeon can more accurately gauge what size and type of implants or techniques will yield the best results based on the patient’s existing breast tissue.
- Psychological Benefits: Commencing hormone therapy prior to surgery can also have psychological benefits. It allows individuals to experience changes in their bodies that align with their gender identity, which can be affirming and positively impact mental well-being.
- Reduced Scarring: With some natural breast growth, the skin is less taut, and the surgeon may not need to make as large an incision as would be required with a flat chest. This can result in reduced scarring post-surgery.
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- More Natural Feel: Having some natural breast tissue due to oestrogen supplementation can make augmented breasts feel more natural to the touch compared to augmentation with implants alone.
Can I have MTF breast augmentation without taking oestrogen?
Yes, it is possible to undergo MTF (Male to Female) breast augmentation without taking oestrogen. However, there are several considerations and potential trade-offs to take into account:
- Limited Natural Breast Growth: Without oestrogen, there is limited natural breast tissue development. As a result, the augmentation will primarily rely on the use of implants to achieve the desired size and shape.
- Skin Elasticity: Oestrogen often improves the elasticity of the skin. Without hormone therapy, the skin might not be as pliable, which could potentially affect the final aesthetic outcome of the augmentation.
- Size and Appearance: Without the influence of oestrogen, the surgeon may need to use larger implants to achieve the desired breast size. This could potentially result in a less natural look and feel compared to having some natural breast tissue development prior to surgery.
- Psychological Aspect: Some individuals find that undergoing hormone therapy and experiencing some natural changes in their body prior to surgery can have psychological benefits. Without oestrogen, this aspect is absent.
- Surgical Considerations: Surgeons often have more options and flexibility in terms of surgical techniques when there is some natural breast tissue present. Without oestrogen, the surgical approach might be more limited.
When is it not recommended to take Oestrogen before MTF Top Surgery?
There are certain scenarios in which it is not recommended to take oestrogen prior to MTF (Male to Female) top surgery. These include:
- Medical Contraindications: Some individuals might have medical conditions or take medications that interact negatively with oestrogen. In such cases, hormone therapy could pose risks to the individual’s health and is, therefore, not recommended.
- Increased Risk of Blood Clots: Oestrogen therapy can increase the risk of blood clots. In the time leading up to surgery, it is often advised to reduce or halt the intake of oestrogen to minimise this risk, especially if the person has other risk factors for blood clot formation.
- History of Certain Cancers: For individuals with a personal or family history of certain types of cancers, such as breast cancer or cancers that are sensitive to hormones, taking oestrogen might not be advisable as it could potentially increase the risk of cancer development.
- Cardiovascular Issues: Oestrogen can have effects on blood pressure and other cardiovascular factors. If an individual has a history of heart disease or other cardiovascular problems, it is important to approach hormone therapy with caution.
- Liver Function: Oestrogen is metabolised by the liver and, in some cases, can affect liver function. Therefore, it might not be recommended for individuals with liver disease or impaired liver function.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of blood clots, and when combined with oestrogen therapy, this risk is further elevated. Doctors might advise against taking oestrogen before surgery for smokers or those who have recently quit.
- Patient Preference or Circumstances: In some cases, a patient might opt not to undergo hormone therapy due to personal preferences or life circumstances.
- Allergies or Sensitivities: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to the components of oestrogen medications, making it unsafe for them to take these hormones.
MTF Breast Augmentation London – Why Choose Us?
Choosing Centre for Surgery for MTF (Male to Female) breast augmentation is an excellent decision due to a variety of factors that make this institution stand out:
- Expertise and Experience: Centre for Surgery boasts a team of highly-skilled surgeons who have extensive experience in gender affirmation procedures, including MTF breast augmentation. This level of expertise ensures that the surgical procedures are conducted with utmost precision and care.
- Customised Approach: Understanding that each individual’s transition journey is unique, Centre for Surgery adopts a personalised approach. The surgical plans are custom-tailored to meet the specific needs and aesthetic goals of each patient.
- Comprehensive Consultation Process: Prior to surgery, patients undergo a thorough consultation process to discuss their objectives and concerns. This allows the medical team to fully understand the patient’s goals and provide the necessary information and guidance.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Centre for Surgery is equipped with cutting-edge technology and facilities, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care in a modern and comfortable environment.
- Patient Support and Aftercare: The centre is renowned for its exceptional patient support, both pre and post-surgery. The aftercare program ensures that patients are closely monitored during the recovery process and that any issues or concerns are promptly addressed.
- Safety and Quality Standards: Adhering to stringent safety protocols and quality standards, Centre for Surgery is committed to delivering safe and effective medical procedures. This commitment helps in minimizing risks and optimizing patient outcomes.
- Reputation and Reviews: Centre for Surgery has built a stellar reputation in the field of gender affirmation surgeries, and this is reflected in the positive reviews and testimonials from previous patients. The experiences shared by past patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.
- Holistic Care: Recognising that gender transition is not just a physical process but also a psychological and emotional journey, Centre for Surgery offers holistic care that encompasses all aspects of the individual’s well-being.
- Accessibility and Location: Conveniently located in London, Centre for Surgery is easily accessible. Its location in a major city ensures that patients have access to additional amenities and resources during their visit.
- Financial Options: Understanding that affordability is a concern for many, Centre for Surgery offers various financial options to help patients manage the costs associated with the procedure.
