If you’re experiencing gender dysphoria or considering or preparing for gender affirmation or gender reassignment surgery, you may have some questions about what you can expect during and after the procedure. We’re here to help you navigate through this liberating transition from start to finish.
Here are the standard requirements for gender affirmation top surgery, as well as what you can expect pre- and post-operation.
Requirements For Gender Reassignment Surgery
Gender affirmation surgery is a big step in your journey towards your true self. It is important to note there are a few mandatory requirements that must be met:
- Before surgery you will need a letter from your Psychiatrist (or therapist) stating you are of sound mind and good judgment.
- Sign consent forms.
- Receive pre- and post-operative instructions and take forms to your primary care doctor for medical clearance.
In addition, there are some optional but recommended requirements. Patients should be 18+ years of age or have the full support of spouses or family members and friends.
Preparing For FTM Top Surgery
During your consultation with your plastic surgeon, you will discuss the specific procedure and surgeries that you will undertake, as well as your general level of health and your long-term gender reassignment goals. There are different options for top surgery, facial masculinization and body contouring.Together with your surgeon, you will come up with a comprehensive gender affirmation surgery plan.
When considering top surgery at the Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery, Dr. Beverly Fischer will examine your breasts and determine if it is best to perform top surgery using a keyhole incision (peri-areolar incision around the nipple) or double incision (under the breasts). The incision type is usually determined by the size of your breasts. Dr. Fischer will walk you through any risks and the recovery period for the procedure.
Before your surgery, you may be asked to undergo a preoperative anesthesia and medical evaluation to ensure that you are cleared for anesthesia.
What To Expect After Gender Affirmation Surgery
First, you will need to plan to have a family or friend pick you up and take you home after the procedure. You will return within a day or two so Dr. Fischer can examine your incisions and make sure you are healing properly.
During the first two weeks of post-operative recovery, you will need regular care and assistance from a friend or family member as you will not be able to perform everyday tasks. You’ll need to rest frequently and avoid strenuous activities. You will be wearing a compression garment that you will not remove. You will also have drains that require care. You can review our extensive "What to Expect" and "Recovery" sections on our Gender Affirmation Center page.
Typically, a full recovery takes about 6-8 weeks, but some patients are able to return to work between 2-4 weeks later. Of course, this may vary between patients. Your surgeon will give you a recovery plan that will outline the treatments and steps you’ll have to take, as well as post-operative side effects you can expect to experience.
It is recommended that after top surgery you follow up with your primary care physician. They will create a custom care plan for long-term care that will fit your needs and ensure that you remain in good health after your operation.
Related Blog: BioTE: Natural Hormone Supplement after Gender Affirmation
Schedule Your Gender Affirmation Consultation Today!
At the Advanced Center For Plastic Surgery, Dr. Beverly Fischer is known for her gender affirmation top surgery procedure. If you meet the requirements for surgery, contact us today. We would be happy to discuss specifics about the procedures you wish to undergo and how we can help you on your journey towards your true gender identity.
