What is top surgery?
As a female-to-male transgender patient transitions, he will need to address his breasts to complete his physical journey. One of the most effective and common breast reconstruction procedures is called top surgery, or breast mastectomy free nipple graft surgery. This is where Inland Empire's board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Childers, removes the entire nipple/areolas during surgery to be replaced at the end. All of the breast tissue is removed (mastectomy), and the chest is shaped and sculpted for a masculine contour. Then, the removed nipple is grafted back into an appropriate location on the breast to restore form and function. It is important to note that the breast will not have full nipple sensation after the surgery.
what are Advantages and Disadvantages of ftm top surgery?
The free nipple graft is advantageous for trans men because it can completely remove the breast tissue for a patient’s preferred, masculine look. This surgery is relatively quick where patients are not under anesthesia for extended periods of time. Another advantage is the fact that there’s minimal blood loss, which cuts down on complications.
The downside to this surgery is that it can lead to breasts with an unnatural shape and the nipples can look asymmetrical. In some cases, the nipple/areola don’t survive the grafting process. Further, the nipple/areola’s color can fade, leading to an uneven color, especially for darker-skinned patients. More than likely, the nipple will no longer become erected when stimulated since complete sensation can’t be restored after this surgery.
what to expect following top surgery
This surgery can be performed in around 3 hours under general anesthesia. First, the nipple/areola area is quickly removed and placed on a moist sponge. The breast tissue is removed and the remaining skin is reshaped and contoured for a masculine appearance. Once the breast has been stitched up, the nipple/areola is grafted into the most appropriate place on the breast. Pressure is added to the nipple to increase the chances of the blood supply and certain nerves reconnecting for better results.
Depending on how the patient heals, recovery time can be anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks. A follow-up appointment will be made in around that same time to check on the patient’s progress to ensure the breasts are healing properly. While most patients can expect some form of reactivity in the nipple area, there’s a loss of sensual nipple sensation, where nipples may not become erect when stimulated.
After surgery, it may be recommended to wear a brace, such as this, to support the chest and hold the chest area steady while recovering.
Riverside Plastic Surgery Reviews
I was hesitant to get my breast reduction with Dr.Childers since there were a few bad reviews , but i figured , you just cant make everyone happy. The doctor does his best the rest is left up to how our body responds /heals and the initiation of the individual taking responsibility for good post op care....etc. I've had terrible back pain due to my natural cleavage size G, as i gain weight it goes to my breast thighs and my buttock area. After my 5th pregnancy the back-pain got worst. After many months of thinking if i should or shouldnt i decided to take the next step towards breast reduction. I was referred to Dr.Childers by my Primary doctor which was also a plastic surgeon listed and approved by my insurance. Since my initial visit it was very professional environment , also the staff were very curtious and inviting. They also offer free refreshments in their waiting area, recalling that when i had my first appointment i had a busy day and was dying of thirst. Dr Childers is very kind professional and listens well to your request of what is desired. Up until the operation day i felt comfortable with him he came and marked me up asked if i had any questions he was very thorough regarding where incisions would be made where and about what size my nipple would be and i approved of his sketch before i know it i was out and ready to go home. The pain was manageable i was given great post op information sheets antibiotics and pain meds that i absolutely loved because they were very effective with minimal side effects. Ive had work done before and i am very particular about incisions and attaching skin back together i can definitely say my new breasts are a work of art my nipples are symmetrical everything is even my breasts are perky , the incisions are precise straight and clean , hes got a very good hand i am extremely happy with the results and i havent even healed completely but i can see that his work is great. I am coming back for my tummy tuck revision scar for sure its nice not to have to travel far to get a good quality doctor with clean straight incisions. I will recommend Dr Childers to anyone looking for good clean work. Ill be happy to share with any other women who may have any doubts or questions . I will post my next review on my tummy tuck revision for my existing thick dark scar in which i went and had work done in tijuana for and cannot wait to see how good he makes it look.
I'm honestly surprised to see Dr. Childers with so many bad reviews. I went to many different consultations with surgeons, and none of them listened to what I wanted other than Dr. Childers. They also wanted to do more costly additions like a Septoplasty and Turbinectomy. Dr. Childers was the only one who said I didn't need that, and actually said all I needed was a turbinate reduction for my breathing issues. When he said that I knew I could trust him as a doctor, and I'm so glad I did. As for the aesthetics of my nose, it's perfect. He truly listened to what I wanted, and gave me just that. I couldn't be happier about my new nose, and I'm grateful I chose him as my surgeon. If I ever want a surgery in the future again I'm 100% going back to him. He's a great surgeon, and was nothing but kind to me and my family.
I’m honestly surprised to see Dr. Childers with so many bad reviews. I went to many different consultations with surgeons, and none of them listened to what I wanted other than Dr. Childers. They also wanted to do more costly additions like a Septoplasty and Turbinectomy. Dr. Childers was the only one who said I didn’t need that, and actually said all I needed was a turbinate reduction for my breathing issues. When he said that I knew I could trust him as a doctor, and I’m so glad I did. As for the aesthetics of my nose, it’s perfect. He truly listened to what I wanted, and gave me just that. I couldn’t be happier about my new nose, and I’m grateful I chose him as my surgeon. If I ever want a surgery in the future again I’m 100% going back to him. He’s a great surgeon, and was nothing but kind to me and my family.
Dr.Ben Childers gets to the point and the job done! I had concerns but he had been doing this for years so he's probably tired of hearing the same concerns lol he's like let me do my job so if time is of essence to you I recommend His staff was very friendly office is very clean. I didn't have to wait too long most the time was quick. I really appreciated the after care and the pain pumps after surgery Lord Jesus is good thank you Dr.Childers for that!! I actually was able to stand straight the first two days wasn't sure if that was suppose to happen but I'm glad because after surgery I almost fell leaning backwards if it was too tight I probably would of ripped open scar a little higher than I would of liked but I think depends on your body and weight I'm happy overall with the results and after care especially! I was a little overweight 5 "4 155 so I couldn't expect a super flat tummy but it looks good! and he's a nice dude may come off as rude but he's a cool guy and I don't mind my uncle was a vietnam veteran and he was a whole other story lol maybe Dr needs to retire soon or maybe I'm annoying and enjoy his long years of hard work he put in God knows, but overall I'm happy and don't regret coming to this Surgeon and by the way love the new belly button super cute! I would recommend him had a great recovery thanks to Jesus and this amazing Dr and staff may God bless them.
Dr.Ben Childers gets to the point and the job done! I had concerns but he had been doing this for years so he’s probably tired of hearing the same concerns lol he’s like let me do my job so if time is of essence to you I recommend His staff was very friendly office is very clean. I didn’t have to wait too long most the time was quick. I really appreciated the after care and the pain pumps after surgery Lord Jesus is good thank you Dr.Childers for that!! I actually was able to stand straight the first two days wasn’t sure if that was suppose to happen but I’m glad because after surgery I almost fell leaning backwards if it was too tight I probably would of ripped open scar a little higher than I would of liked but I think depends on your body and weight I’m happy overall with the results and after care especially! I was a little overweight 5 "4 155 so I couldn’t expect a super flat tummy but it looks good! and he’s a nice dude may come off as rude but he’s a cool guy and I don’t mind my uncle was a vietnam veteran and he was a whole other story lol maybe Dr needs to retire soon or maybe I’m annoying and enjoy his long years of hard work he put in God knows, but overall I’m happy and don’t regret coming to this Surgeon and by the way love the new belly button super cute! I would recommend him had a great recovery thanks to Jesus and this amazing Dr and staff may God bless them.
189
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4.9
Average Rating
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Learn More
If you are a trans man looking to complete your transition, you should learn more about Breast Mastectomy Free Nipple Graft surgery, or Top surgery. In this procedure, the nipple/areola is removed and replaced following the mastectomy to achieve a masculine appearance. When you call our office, we would be more than happy to set up a time for you to come in and discuss the procedure with Dr. Childers. He will determine whether this procedure is right for you, as well as go over the surgical procedure, the pros and cons, pricing and more, so give us a call today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does top surgery cost?
The cost of top surgery can vary based on your specific needs and the details of the procedure. During your consultation, we'll talk about what you can expect in terms of cost. To make your journey more affordable, Riverside Plastic Surgery proudly accepts a variety of financing options, which we'll be happy to review with you.
Will I need to wear a compression garment after top surgery?
We usually recommend wearing a compression garment after top surgery to reduce swelling and support a smoother recovery. Dr. Childers will instruct you on how long to wear it so you can feel as comfortable as possible while you heal.
Does top surgery leave scars?
There will likely be some scarring after top surgery, which is normal and part of the healing process. Over time, these scars usually fade, and we'll provide you with aftercare tips to help them heal in a way that feels right for you.