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For a lot of transgender men who are thinking about undergoing FTM Top Surgery, keeping the feeling in their nipples is really important. At Centre for Surgery, we’re experts in performing two specific types of FTM Mastectomy surgeries: the Double Incision Mastectomy and the Periareolar Mastectomy, also known as the Keyhole Incision procedure. Both of these top surgery methods involve taking out the breast tissue that’s situated beneath the nipple.
Doing this can impact the blood circulation to the nerves in that particular area, and as a result, you might experience some loss of sensation or feeling. The level of sensation that remains or gets lost will differ depending on which top surgery method you opt for. So, it’s crucial to consider what is most important to you when choosing between the two procedures.
Understanding Different FTM Top Surgery Methods and Their Impact on Nipple Sensation
At Centre for Surgery, we offer two primary types of FTM Top Surgery, each with its own set of advantages and considerations when it comes to nipple sensation.
Double Incision Mastectomy
The first and most commonly performed surgery is the Double Incision Mastectomy. This method is particularly well-suited for individuals who have larger or drooping breasts, or excess skin. One of the key benefits of this procedure is the high level of precision it offers in determining the size and position of the nipple, as well as the placement of scars. During the surgery, the entire nipple-areolar complex is removed, resized, and then grafted back onto the chest in the chosen location. However, it’s important to note that this process interrupts the nerves leading to the nipple and areola. Since these nerves are not reconnected through microsurgery, there is a strong chance that patients will experience a loss of sensation in these areas after the surgery.
Periareolar Mastectomy
On the other hand, the Periareolar Mastectomy, also known as the Keyhole Incision procedure, is better suited for those with smaller breasts and minimal or no overhang. Unlike the Double Incision method, this procedure leaves the nipple-areolar complex intact. The nipple stays in its original position, determined by its location on your breast, and cannot be moved or adjusted through the surgery. Because the nipple and areola are not removed, this method offers a better likelihood of preserving sensation. However, it’s important to understand that maintaining sensation is not guaranteed.
Experiencing Sensation After Your Top Surgery: What to Expect and Consider
It’s quite usual to feel numbness in your chest area for some days after you’ve had your top surgery. You might notice this numbness in isolated ‘dead spots’ or across a broader area. After about one to two months, this numbness might change to a tingling sensation. You could describe this feeling as prickly, stinging, or even burning. Don’t worry, this is a normal part of the healing process and is often reported among transmen. The sensation occurs because the nerves in the area are stretched and compressed during the surgical procedure, and the subsequent swelling also affects the nervous system. This tingling is generally a sign that your nerves are on their way to healing. Most people find that sensation starts returning to the chest area between 6 to 12 months post-surgery.
While it’s relatively uncommon for patients to lose all sensation after their top surgery, it’s worth noting that some individuals, particularly those who opt for the Double Incision Mastectomy, have reported a total loss of erogenous sensation, which is the type of feeling associated with sexual response. Certain risk factors make this outcome more likely, including being a smoker, or having a pre-existing condition like diabetes or an autoimmune disease. These conditions elevate the risk of nipple graft failure, leading to a complete loss of sensation.
RELATED: What Is The Risk of Losing My Nipple In an FTM Top Surgery?
During your consultation at Centre for Surgery, we’ll make sure to discuss these potential risk factors with you. Our primary goal is to ensure that you’re fully informed and comfortable with the procedure you’re considering. The majority of our patients express high levels of satisfaction with their decision to undergo top surgery. If retaining sensation in your chest area is a crucial factor for you, we’ll discuss this in detail to determine which surgical option aligns best with your individual needs and expectations.
FTM Top Surgery at Centre for Surgery: Expertise, Compassion, and Comprehensive Care
At Centre for Surgery, we take pride in being a leading specialist clinic in London offering FTM Top Surgery. With a team of highly skilled and experienced surgeons, our goal is to provide each patient with a compassionate and personalised experience. From the initial consultation to post-operative care, you can count on us for comprehensive guidance and expertise.
To better understand your options, visit our About Us page where you can gain insight into our values, our team, and the state-of-the-art technology we use. We also offer various finance options, including 0% APR with Chrysalis Finance, to help make your surgery more affordable.
Patient Testimonials
- John D. – “My experience at Centre for Surgery was exceptional. The team really took the time to understand my needs and the results are beyond my expectations. Highly recommend!”
- Alex M. – “From the first consultation to the last check-up, Centre for Surgery has been nothing but professional. The entire staff is knowledgeable and compassionate, and my surgery went perfectly.”
- Samantha R. – “I never felt rushed or pushed into making a decision. The team at Centre for Surgery is patient-centric, providing the best advice and options for your specific needs.”
For more information on various topics, you can visit our Plastic Surgery Blog and for frequently asked questions about procedures, refer to our Clinic FAQs.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Take the first step towards your transformative journey by scheduling a consultation with us. Contact us via:
📞 Phone: 0207 993 4849
📧 Email: contact@centreforsurgery.com
📍 Visit our Baker Street clinic: 95-97 Baker Street, London W1U 6RN
We look forward to providing you with top-quality care and supporting you throughout your FTM Top Surgery journey.
