Gender Affirming Breast Augmentation (MTF Top Surgery)
Gender affirming breast augmentation, also known as MTF breast augmentation, transgender breast augmentation, feminizing top surgery, or gender affirming surgery, is a specialized procedure designed to create or enhance a feminine chest appearance for transgender women, non-binary, and transfeminine individuals. This surgery plays a critical role in body alignment with gender identity, easing gender dysphoria and improving overall quality of life.
Schedule your Gender-Affirming Breast Augmentation consultation with Dr. Saad Alsubaie at Aeterna Aesthetic in McAllen, TX. We proudly serve patients from McAllen, Edinburg, Mission, Pharr, Harlingen, and the greater Rio Grande Valley. Contact us online or call our office at (956) 287-4345 today to begin your journey to renewed confidence.
Quick Links
What is Gender Affirming Breast Augmentation?
Gender affirming breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that places breast implants or uses fat grafting to increase breast volume and create a natural, feminine breast shape. It differs from breast augmentation commonly performed on cisgender women, primarily due to distinct anatomical differences in transgender patients. These include a wider sternum, larger pectoral muscles, smaller and more laterally positioned nipple-areolar complexes, and tighter skin envelopes.
The procedure is often referred to as “top surgery” in the context of transgender care but should not be confused with masculinizing top surgery for transgender men; MTF top surgery specifically refers to feminizing breast augmentation.
What Are the Benefits of Gender Affirming Breast Augmentation?
Many transfeminine patients experience significant distress due to a chest that does not align with their gender identity. Hormone therapy helps develop breast tissue but often does not provide sufficient size or shape. Gender affirming breast augmentation offers:
- Feminine chest contour matching body proportions
- Improved self-confidence and body image
- Resolution of gender dysphoria related to chest appearance
- Enhanced sexual well-being and psychosocial health
Research supports that patients undergoing this procedure have high satisfaction rates and improved mental health outcomes.
How Does Gender Affirming Breast Augmentation Work?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and can typically be done as an outpatient procedure.
Implant Placement Options
There are two main planes where breast implants can be placed:
- Subglandular (pre-pectoral):The implant is placed underneath the breast tissue but on top of the chest muscle. This placement allows slightly faster recovery and less pain but has a higher chance of visible implant edges, especially in patients with thin chest walls.
- Submuscular (dual plane or complete under the pectoralis muscle):The implant is placed beneath the chest muscle. This placement offers more natural contour, reduced implant visibility, and lower risk of capsular contracture, but recovery may be more prolonged and sensitive.
The choice depends on patient anatomy, aesthetic goals, and surgeon recommendation.
Incision Options
Surgeons typically use one of the following incision sites:
- Inframammary incision:Located underneath the breast fold, this incision provides good access for implant placement and has scars hidden naturally by the breast.
- Periareolar incision:Placed around the lower border of the areola, this incision can create less visible scarring, but incision size is limited by nipple size, which tends to be smaller in transfeminine patients.
- Transaxillary incision:Located in the armpit, this incision is usually avoided as it provides less control and increased risk.
Implant Choices
- Silicone implants:Offer a natural feel and appearance, preferred for gender affirming surgery.
- Saline implants:Filled after placement, less natural feel but smaller incisions; less commonly chosen.
Implant size, shape (round or teardrop), and profile (projection) are selected based on the patient’s body measurements, aesthetic goals, and surgeon’s advice.
Fat Grafting Option
Some patients choose to combine gender affirming breast augmentation with autologous fat grafting, which harvests fat from areas such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs via liposuction, then injects purified fat to augment breast volume and shape. Fat grafting provides a natural option but typically results in a modest volume increase and requires multiple sessions. It is sometimes used to smooth asymmetries or achieve fullness in specific areas.
Why Choose Dr. Saad Alsubaie for Gender-Affirming Breast Augmentation?
- Unparalleled Expertise and Training: Dr. Saad Alsubaie is a double board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with advanced training from the Mayo Clinic. His credentials include board certification from both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada. As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Aesthetic Society (ASAPS), he stays at the forefront of aesthetic innovation.
- Personalized, Artistic Approach: Dr. Alsubaie believes that beauty is personal and timeless. He takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns, designing a fully customized Gender-Affirming Breast Augmentation plan that enhances your natural beauty while prioritizing your health and well-being. His keen artistic eye ensures natural, balanced results.
- Proven Results You Can Trust: Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our before-and-after gallery, which showcases authentic results from real patients. Dr. Alsubaie’s work is characterized by natural-looking enhancements that highlight your unique beauty. Our patients love their results because they look like the best version of themselves.
- A Practice Built on Care and Trust: At Aeterna Aesthetic, we treat every patient like family. From your initial consultation to your final result, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. Dr. Alsubaie’s dedication to your happiness and confidence is at the heart of everything we do.
- Safety and Transparency Above All: Your safety is our top priority. Dr. Alsubaie is known for honesty and transparency, never recommending unnecessary procedures. His consultations are genuine, educational conversations where you can explore your options without pressure.
- Comprehensive, State-of-the-Art Care: Aeterna Aesthetic is a fully accredited facility equipped with the latest technology to ensure a safe, comfortable experience. Our highly trained team is dedicated to making you feel valued and cared for at every step.
- A Personal Connection to the Community: Dr. Alsubaie is not just a skilled surgeon; he is deeply connected to the South Texas community. His wife’s family is from the area, making Aeterna Aesthetic a locally rooted practice that combines world-class expertise with genuine care.
How Do I Prepare for Surgery?
Preparation includes:
- Hormone therapy:Most surgeons recommend a minimum of 12 months of consistent estrogen therapy prior to surgery to achieve better breast tissue development and skin elasticity; however, hormone therapy is not mandatory.
- Medical evaluation:Comprehensive health assessment including documenting estrogen therapy, BMI (often recommended under 32 for safety), and overall medical stability.
- Insurance and documentation:Patients typically need documentation from medical providers affirming gender dysphoria and hormone therapy consistent with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care.
- Consultation:Detailed discussion of goals, implant choice, incision placement, and surgical risks with a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in transgender surgeries.
At Aeterna, your consultation is more than an appointment; it’s the beginning of a transformative journey guided by care, integrity, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. – Dr. Alsubaie
What Can I Expect During Recovery and Aftercare?
Post-surgical recovery includes:
- Immediate recovery:Patients usually go home the same day. Dressings and compression garments are applied to support healing and minimize swelling.
- Pain management:Mild to moderate discomfort controlled with medication.
- Activity restrictions:Avoid heavy lifting and exertion for about 4-6 weeks.
- Follow-up:Regular visits for wound checks, suture removal if needed, and monitoring for complications.
- Long-term care:Implants have a lifespan of approximately 10-15 years, requiring eventual replacement or monitoring for rupture or capsular contracture.
What Are Some Potential Risks and Complications?
As with all surgeries, risks include bleeding, infection, implant displacement, capsular contracture, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. Attention to transgender-specific anatomical nuances helps minimize these risks.
Your Journey to Authenticity
Dr. Saad Alsubaie is committed to providing you with exceptional care and personalized attention. Our goal is to help you achieve the feminine chest contour you desire, enhancing your quality of life and boosting your confidence.
If you have any questions or are ready to schedule your consultation, please contact us today. Let us support you on your journey to a more authentic and confident you.
Gender Affirming Breast AugmentationFAQs
What distinguishes transgender breast augmentation from typical breast augmentation?
Anatomical differences such as wider chest, lateral nipple position, and smaller nipple size require specialized surgical planning and implant selection to achieve natural feminine results in transgender patients.
How long does the surgery take?
Generally 2-3 hours depending on the complexity of implant placement and any adjunct procedures like fat grafting.
Will I have visible scars?
Yes, there will be scars from incisions, usually well-concealed under the breast fold or around the areola. Scarring fades over time with proper care.
Can I breastfeed after surgery?
Most patients will not be able to breastfeed after augmentation due to disruption of milk ducts and breast tissue.
Most patients will not be able to breastfeed after augmentation due to disruption of milk ducts and breast tissue.
Many patients return to sedentary work within 1-2 weeks; physical or strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks.
Is hormone therapy required before surgery?
Hormone therapy is recommended for optimal breast development but is not mandatory. The decision is individualized.
What sizes of implants are available?
Implant sizes vary widely from small to large volumes. Your surgeon will recommend sizes based on body frame, chest width, and aesthetic goals.
How natural will my breasts look and feel?
Silicone implants combined with proper placement typically yield the most natural appearance and feel for transgender patients.