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What Should You Know Before Male-to-Female Transgender Breast Surgery?

Breasts have always been the foremost symbol of femininity. Therefore, pursuing breast augmentation surgery is an integral part of the male-to-female gender affirmation process, both physically and emotionally. It is the first and, most often, the only gender-affirming procedure sought by MTF individuals whether or not they have gender dysphoria.

woman having lines drawn on her for breast proceduresWhat Are Your Implant Options?

As with traditional breast augmentation, male-to-female top surgery offers many implant choices and variations. These variations will be discussed in detail with Dr. Turkeltaub during your consultation so you will be fully informed of the options, possibilities, and outcomes from each.

Both silicone and saline breast implants can be used for MTF top surgery. However, Dr. Turkeltaub feels very strongly about the vastly superior results that are obtained with the silicone implants in this situation and uses them exclusively. There are varying levels of cohesiveness that can be selected from in order to further optimize outcome. 

What Does the Procedure Entail?

MTF top surgery is essentially a breast augmentation—but with a few different factors and considerations. During this procedure, your chosen implant will be inserted into a breast pocket created either in front of (pre-pectoral/submammary) or behind the pectoralis muscle (submuscular)—as discussed during your consultation. The submuscular placement is often more advantageous and can provide a more natural result though many can also have a good result using a submammary approach.

example of a breast implant

There are three theoretical incisions options available for MTF top surgery. These include the transaxillary (in the armpit), periareolar (through the bottom half of the areola), or inframammary (along the breast crease) locations.

In reality, though, the significant limitations of the transaxillary and periareolar approaches make these essentially non-viable options. Conversely, the inframammary incision offers tremendous flexibility, allows for the usage of any size implants, provides for far greater precision, and yields more predictable results.

Additional Considerations Before Your Top Surgery

blog incision optionsThe gender-affirming MTF top surgery should significantly enhance your confidence and comfort with your body. It is truly life changing but, still, the surgery itself should not be taken lightly, and you must have realistic expectations of what can be accomplished. All of this will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation. 

For most situations, Dr. Turkeltaub does require that you present written documentation from a mental health professional stating that you have met the criteria and are both emotionally and physically prepared for this procedure.

If you are considering or have already begun your transition and are interested in breast augmentation, contact Dr. Turkeltaub at the Arizona Center for Breast Surgery by calling (480) 451-3000 or by filling out our online contact form.