Masculinizing Top Surgeries in Thailand

Masculinizing top surgery is a transformative procedure that involves removing breast tissue through a double mastectomy, resulting in a flatter or more masculine chest appearance. This surgery is in high demand among individuals who identify as transmasculine or nonbinary, and it offers the possibility of combining pec implants for a more muscular aesthetic.

Masculinizing top surgery offers various benefits but also poses some drawbacks. On the positive side, it allows individuals to align their bodies with their gender identity and expression. It eliminates the need for chest binding, which can cause skin irritation, vascular damage, and back pain. Additionally, undergoing this surgery can lower the risk of breast cancer. However, it is important to note that the techniques for this surgery are not widely taught, making it difficult to find skilled surgeons. There is also a possibility of losing sensation in the chest and nipples if a surgeon does not offer sensation-sparing mastectomy surgery or if the patient is not a suitable candidate. Although nerve regeneration is possible, the return of sensation may not be experienced as an erogenous sensation.

There are various options available for gender-affirming mastectomy procedures, tailored to suit your individual anatomy and desired outcome. This may involve repositioning, reshaping, and even liposuction to enhance your new contours. Typically lasting 3-4 hours, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia to ensure you are unconscious throughout. The choice of surgical technique depends on factors such as your own anatomy, age, skin thickness, and elasticity. Therefore, it is crucial to select an experienced surgeon who can deliver the desired aesthetic outcome while minimizing the risk of complications or unsatisfactory results.

The recovery period varies depending on the nature of your job. Most desk jobs can be resumed within two weeks, while jobs that involve heavy lifting or frequent movement may require up to six weeks of rest. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for six to eight weeks.

After your surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room for monitoring. You will be able to go home the same day once you are alert and stable. It is important to arrange for transportation as you will not be able to drive yourself. Swelling is common post-surgery and typically reaches its peak within 48 hours. It may take a few weeks to a few months for it to fully resolve. Surgical drains may be placed on your chest to prevent fluid build-up, and your doctor will provide guidance on when you can shower or bathe. You may also be instructed to wear a compression binder for a period of one to six weeks. If your nipples were reduced and repositioned, you will have a special dressing called a bolster, which will be removed after about a week.

The swelling after surgery typically takes three to six months to go down, allowing you to see the final results of a flat or more masculine chest. Performing weight-training exercises before and after surgery can improve the outcome. Pectoral implants can also be inserted surgically to create the appearance of well-developed chest muscles. It’s important to note that results from top surgery are permanent and cannot be reversed. Some patients may worry about their breasts growing back if they gain weight, however you’d have to gain significant weight gain before your chest returns to feminine appearance.

Surgical goals also include minimizing scars and optimizing their placement. Removing larger breasts results in larger scars. Double incision surgery can leave scars on each side of the chest, but skilled incision placement can position the final faded scar along the lower edge of the pectoral muscles, following the natural contour. For transmen on testosterone therapy, new hair growth can further conceal scars. Proper wound healing reduces bleeding, bruising, and the formation of seromas that may worsen scarring. Avoiding sun exposure while scars are still pink and prone to hyperpigmentation is also recommended. While scars are permanent, they will fade over time and proper scar treatments can aid in this process.

Masculinizing top surgery is a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. It has low complication rates and high satisfaction rates. Scarring is usually minimal and the risk of nipple graft tissue death is rare. However, like any surgery, there are potential complications such as bruising, swelling, nausea, blood clots, infection, fluid build-up, and poor reaction to anesthesia. It is common to experience some loss of sensation in the chest or nipple area after the surgery, but patients typically retain some sensation. Interestingly, patients often report increased sexual satisfaction after the procedure, likely due to improved body confidence. In addition, transgender men who undergo chest reconstruction experience a higher quality of life compared to those who do not. When combined with hormone therapy, this procedure is more effective in alleviating gender dysphoria than hormones alone.