FTM/N Top Surgery FAQs

At Centre for Surgery, our priority is to offer detailed insights and assistance to our patients. We understand the importance of informed decision-making, regarding . Our educational materials are designed to help patients thoroughly understand their treatment options. This approach ensures that each individual feels confident and well-informed about their towards transformation.

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FTM/N TOP SURGERY OVERVIEW

FTM (female-to-male) and FTN (female-to-non-binary) top surgery is a gender-affirming surgical procedure that removes breast tissue to create a flatter, more masculine chest . It is one of the most requested gender-affirming procedures and can have a significant positive impact on wellbeing, confidence and gender dysphoria. At Centre for Surgery, we perform two main types: the double incision mastectomy and the keyhole (periareolar) mastectomy.

Top surgery can dramatically improve quality of life by reducing gender dysphoria, improving body image and confidence, and allowing patients to feel more comfortable in their own skin. Many patients report significant psychological relief following surgery.

The minimum age for undergoing FTM top surgery, as per the guidelines set by The World Professional Association for Transgender Health’s Standards of Care, is 18 years old. This threshold ensures that individuals are adults and able to make fully informed decisions about their health and bodies.

While a GP referral can be beneficial, it is not a mandatory requirement for undergoing surgery at Centre for Surgery. Patients can directly approach us for consultation and surgical services without a referral.

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Our clinic does not offer bottom surgery. Our gender affirmation surgical procedures are focused on top surgery and other procedures including and .

AM I SUITABLE FOR FTM/N TOP SURGERY?

Yes. Centre for observes a mandatory reflection period between your consultation and your surgery date. This ensures you have had sufficient time to your decision fully, ask any remaining questions, and feel completely confident before . Your surgeon will confirm the specific timeframe at your consultation.

Weight plays a significant role in surgical outcomes. To achieve the best possible results and enhance the safety of the surgical process, candidates should ideally have a Body Mass Index (BMI) below 30 and a stable, healthy weight before .

You do not need to stop hormonal therapy or other regular medications before surgery. However, our doctors may advise you to pause androgen therapy on the day of your surgery. Always inform your clinical team of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Blood tests are a common prerequisite for top . These tests confirm your suitability for surgery and help ensure the safety and success of the operation. Your doctor will discuss the specific tests required during your initial .

PREPARING FOR FTM/N TOP SURGERY

To ensure the best possible outcome and a swift recovery, it is to be in optimal health. Key steps include:

Most body piercings can stay in place, except those that might interfere with surgery — such as piercings in the nose, mouth or chest. Our anaesthetist will provide guidance on which piercings need to be removed.

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove. Bring any lab results or medical documentation your surgeon has requested, your compression garment if provided, and any regular medications with their names and dosages.

FTM/N TOP SURGERY PROCEDURE

At our clinic, we specialise in two types of FTM/N top surgery:

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During your initial consultation, our experienced doctors will conduct a thorough clinical assessment. They will consider factors such as chest size, skin elasticity, and overall health to recommend the most appropriate surgical option for your specific body type and goals.

Both procedures are conducted under general anaesthesia in our Baker Street clinic. In a double mastectomy, two incisions allow complete removal of breast tissue and repositioning of the nipple. In keyhole top surgery, tissue is removed through an incision around the areola, preserving nipple attachment and sensation where .

Top surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. You will be completely asleep and throughout the procedure. Surgery is performed as a day case at our Baker Street clinic, meaning most patients go home the same day.

All top surgeries are conducted at our well-equipped Baker Street clinic in Marylebone, London. The clinic provides a comfortable, safe and supportive environment.

The for drains depends on the type of surgery. Drains are typically used during a periareolar or keyhole mastectomy to aid healing and reduce fluid accumulation. They are removed after 48 to 72 hours.

The choice to retain or remove during top is up to the patient. Some individuals opt for a nipple-free chest, while others prefer to keep them. This decision is made based on personal preference and aesthetic outcome.

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‘Dog ears’ refer to small areas of excess skin and fat that may protrude from the main incision lines, commonly at the sides or near the centre of the chest, a double incision top surgery. These are often a normal part of the healing process and can be addressed in postoperative care or, if necessary, a revision procedure.

Yes, you can still get pregnant after undergoing top surgery. The removal of breast tissue does not impact your reproductive system or your ability to conceive, as the are not involved in the gestational process.

RECOVERY AFTER FTM/N TOP SURGERY

After top surgery, the recovery period lasts about six to eight weeks before you can resume vigorous activities such as running, lifting and other sports. It is important to have someone available — a family member, friend or caregiver — to assist you for the first 24 to 48 hours following the operation.

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No. You should have someone available to pick you up from the clinic on the day of surgery. Driving can be resumed one to two weeks after surgery, depending on your individual recovery and the type of surgery performed.

We will supply you with a bag of dressings and detailed post-operative care instructions to support your recovery after surgery.

We provide prescription-strength painkillers to help manage any pain you might experience after surgery.

Your first post-operative check will be scheduled for the day after your surgery — either an in-person visit or a phone call. The subsequent follow-up is usually seven to ten days later, when dressings or drains will be removed depending on the type of surgery you had.

Flying immediately after top surgery is not recommended due to the increased air pressure that can affect your incisions. Plan your return flight at least a few days after your surgery date to allow for initial recovery and reduce the risks of flying too soon.

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FTM/N TOP SURGERY RESULTS

Some improvement in chest contour is immediately after surgery, although the chest will be swollen and bruised in the early weeks. As swelling resolves over three to six months, the final results become apparent. Scars continue to fade over twelve to eighteen months.

The results of top surgery are designed to be permanent. The breast tissue removed during surgery does not grow back. The chest will continue to be affected by the natural ageing over time, but the overall masculine chest contour achieved through surgery is lasting.

Breast tissue removed during top surgery does not regrow. However, if oestrogen levels change significantly or if hormone therapy is stopped, some residual fat tissue in the chest may expand . Discuss your hormone plans with your surgeon at .

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We advise patients to wait between nine months and a year after their initial FTM top surgery before considering a . This waiting period is essential to ensure that the body has fully healed and the final results of the first surgery are .

RISKS OF FTM/N TOP SURGERY

As with all surgical procedures, FTM top surgery carries some risks. These include:

The risk of complications is significantly when surgery is performed by a specialist surgeon in a CQC-registered and when all pre- and postoperative instructions are followed.

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When performed by an experienced in an appropriate clinical setting, FTM top surgery is considered a safe procedure with a high rate of patient satisfaction. Centre for performs top surgery at our CQC-registered Baker Street clinic where patient safety, discretion and comfort are our priority.

FTM/N TOP SURGERY COSTS AND FINANCE

The cost of FTM top surgery depends on the specific type of required and the extent of the procedure. A detailed personal quotation is provided after your consultation.

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Yes — the cost is influenced by the complexity and extent of the procedure required. Larger breasts may more extensive surgery, which can affect the overall cost.

Chest contouring is included in FTM top surgery when you opt for self-pay. This procedure often includes to sculpt and define the chest, enhancing the masculine appearance.

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Our clinic does not directly engage with third-party insurance companies. We recommend consulting with your insurance provider to understand the details of your coverage for top and any associated contouring fees.

We accept all major credit cards including American Express. We also offer flexible finance options through Chrysalis Finance, including 0% APR, making it easier to manage the financial aspect of your surgery.

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FTM Top Surgery in London — Why Choose Centre for Surgery

Centre for Surgery in London stands out as a premier destination for FTM top surgery, offering expert care, state-of-the-art facilities, and a patient-centred approach. Our clinic combines advanced surgical techniques with a deep of the unique needs of transgender and non-binary patients to deliver exceptional .

Expert surgeons — our team is highly experienced in gender-affirming surgery, ensuring you receive the best possible care tailored to your individual needs.

Personalised care — we believe in a bespoke approach, tailoring every patient’s to their specific goals and requirements.

State-of-the-art facilities — our Baker Street clinic is equipped with the latest technology, ensuring safety and comfort throughout your journey.

"Transformative Experience" — "My top surgery at Centre for Surgery was a transformative experience. The staff were incredibly supportive, and the results have exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to choose them." — Alex H.

"Exceptional Care" — "From the first consultation to post-operative care, the team at Centre for Surgery was exceptional. They were attentive, understanding, and professional throughout my journey." — Jamie T.

"Highly Recommend" — "I highly recommend Centre for Surgery for anyone considering FTM top surgery. Their expertise and compassionate approach made all the difference." — Morgan S.

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