FtM DI top surgery and body contouring for gender affirmation
Before Top Surgery and lower abdominoplasty After Top Surgery and lower abdominoplasty
This pleasant 27 year old trans man came to see Dr. Medalie in regards to FtM “top surgery”. He had too much loose skin for the peri-areolar approach and was scheduled for a double incision mastectomy with free nipple grafting and chest contouring by limited liposuction. He was also interested in contouring his lower abdomen and decided on a lower abdominoplasty with liposuction. His gender confirming surgery was performed as an outpatient and took approximately 2 hours to perform. In his after picture he is shown 1 year post DI and body contouring and is very pleased with his contour. He has begun an extensive work out regimen and in combination with his lower abdominoplasty and testosterone, his newly contoured body demonstrates excellent musculature and chest contour.*Results may vary
Below I have attached some information from my main web page that discussed the surgical options for top surgery. Here is a link to that page:
Top Surgery For Transgender Patients
The procedure is based on the following:
Size and shape of breast
Elasticity of skin
Patient’s needs and preferences
PERI: In general, patients who have smaller breasts can have the entire surgery performed by having a small incision at the outer edge of the areola from 12:00 to 6:00 o’clock. A lighted retractor and surgical scissors are used to perform a complete sub-cutaneous mastectomy. Liposuction of the chest is also performed as needed.This provides the most optimal results and can be almost invisible after it heals. If the skin appears a little looser at the start of the case then a complete peri-areolar incision is made. A small amount of skin is removed (in a doughnut pattern , also known as-“peri-areolar or “purse-string” mastopexy”). A subcutaneous mastectomy is performed and then the outer edge of the skin is closed with a purse-string to the newly down-sized areola. By necessity, the edges of the incision around the nipple will be “scalloped” or bunched up initially. This settles down to a great degree over time. If the patient understands that scar revision may be necessary, this is a very reasonable approach. The nipple may experience compromise of its blood supply and also have sensation or erectile capacity changes.
Double Incision: In those patients with a large amount of breast tissue with excessive skin of poor quality and droop, it is usually recommend to remove the excess skin and breast tissue in the crease of the pectoralis muscles (elliptical or double incision mastectomy) and put the nipples and areolae back on as grafts. This surgery has the advantage of immediate and predictable results. I can contour the skin flaps and place the nipples where I want to. It has the disadvantage of permanently altering the sensation and erectile capacity of the nipples (and sometimes the pigmentation), and it leaves larger scars on the chest. Over time they fade and flatten out. At each end of the scar, “dog-ears” may form. These are small bunches of tissue created by the closing of the ellipse as a straight line. They tend to settle down over time, but may need to be revised. I always try and address the dog ears at the time of surgery but this may extend the length of the scar. Dog ears are more likely in patients who are heavier and have more tissue to start with. I always perform liposuction of the central and lateral chest (to flatten the dog ears) as well as the area in front of the armpit. I have been asked why a scar may meet in the center of the chest on some top surgery results but not on others. This is dependent on pre-existing anatomy. If the tissue meets in the middle (such as in the example right below) then the scar by necessity will meet in the middle (this can’t be seen in the example because of the patient’s chest hair.)
This patient came to see Dr. Medalie complaining of severe gynecomastia and lateral excess skin and fatty tissue as well as excess skin of the abdomen. He had lost a great deal of weight and was concerned about the displaced nipple/areolar complex, excess breast tissue and lateral excess skin and fatty tissue. His male breast reduction surgery was performed on an outpatient basis.He had a complete double mastectomy with nipple areolar reconstruction by grafting and side and chest liposuction. His incisions were extended quite far on his sides in order to remove the excess lateral skin as well. The patient is shown 4 months after his procedure. His chest contour is much improved and his nipples are smaller and in a better position. His abdomen is much tighter ands the excess lower skin is gone. He is working out and lifting weights and has excellent body aesthetics from his body contouring procedure.He is extremely pleased with his outcome. The tattoos are temporary to see how they would look in the future.*Plastic Surgery results are not guaranteed
Gynecomastia surgery reduces breast size in men, flattening and enhancing the chest contours.
In severe cases of gynecomastia, the weight of excess breast tissue may cause the breasts to sag and stretch the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). In these cases the position and size of the areola can be surgically improved and excess skin may be reduced.
Plastic surgery to correct gynecomastia is technically called reduction mammaplasty.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition of overdeveloped or enlarged breasts in men that can occur at any age. The condition can be the result of hormonal changes, heredity, obesity or the use of certain drugs.
Gynecomastia can cause emotional discomfort and impair your self-confidence. Some men may even avoid certain physical activities and intimacy simply to hide their condition.
Gynecomastia is characterized by:
Excess localized fat
Excess glandular tissue development
Sometimes excess breast skin
Presence unilaterally (one breast) or bilaterally (both breasts)
What Are The Steps Of A Gynecomastia Procedure?
A male breast reduction procedure includes the following steps:
Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The options include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best option for you.
Liposuction Technique
In cases where the chest tissue is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction techniques alone may be used. This requires insertion of a cannula, a thin hollow tube, through several small incisions.
The cannula is moved back and forth in a controlled motion to loosen the excess fat, which is then removed from the body by vacuum suction.
There are various liposuction techniques that may be used; the technique most appropriate in your case will be defined prior to your procedure.
Excision Technique
Excision techniques are recommended where glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed to correct gynecomastia. Excision also is necessary if the areola will be reduced or the nipple will be repositioned to a more natural male contour. Incision patterns vary depending on the specific conditions and surgical preference. I find that almost always a patient will need a small incision to remove glandular tissue under the nipple. I try to make the incision at the areolar skin junction on the lateral border of the areola from 6-12 o’clock.
Combination Of Liposuction & Excision Techniques
Sometimes gynecomastia is treated with both liposuction and excision. This is the case in the example above when there is both excess fatty tissue and glandular tissue present.
What are the steps of a tummy tuck procedure?
A tummy tuck procedure includes the following steps:
Step 1 – Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
Step 2 – The incision
A full tummy tuck requires a horizontally-oriented incision in the area between the pubic hairline and belly button.
The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin. Once the abdominal skin is lifted, the underlying weakened abdominal muscles are repaired.
A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen.
The upper abdominal skin is pulled down like a window shade. The excess skin is trimmed and the remaining skin is sutured together. A new opening for the belly button is created. The belly button is popped through to the surface and sutured into position.
Step 3 – Closing the incisions
Sutures, skin adhesives, tapes or clips close the skin incisions.
Step 4 – See the results
Your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. Get more information about tummy tuck results.
This cosmetic surgery patient desired body contouring by liposuction. She discussed treatment of her flanks, sides and abdomen with Dr. Medalie at his Beachwood office. Surgery was performed and 4 liters of fatty tissue was removed from her flanks, sides and abdomen in an outpatient surgery at the Brainard Surgery Center. Her post-operative results were excellent and she was very happy with her new contour after her body contouring procedure.
*Plastic Surgery results can vary from patient to patient and are not guaranteed
The liposuction procedure includes the following steps:
Step 1 – Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include local anesthesia, intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
Step 2 – The Incision
Liposuction is performed through small, inconspicuous incisions.
First, diluted local anesthesia is infused to reduce bleeding and trauma. Then a thin hollow tube, or cannula, is inserted through the incisions to loosen excess fat using a controlled back and forth motion. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum or syringe attached to the cannula.
Problem Areas That Can Be Addressed With Liposuction
Step 3 – See The Results
Your improved body contour will be apparent once the swelling and fluid retention commonly experienced following liposuction subside. Get more information about liposuction results.
Abdominoplasty, liposuction and breast augmentation with silicone breast implants (before surgery) *Surgery results may varyAbdominoplasty, liposuction and breast augmentation with silicone breast implants (3 months after surgery) *Surgery results may vary
This 29 year old patient from Cleveland, Ohio came to see Dr. Daniel A. Medalie of Cleveland Plastic Surgery at his Beachwood office to discuss a mommy makeover by tummy tuck surgery and liposuction as well as breast enhancement. She had two pregnancies and also lost around 75 lbs. She is 5’5″ and 145 lbs . On exam she has a great deal of loose skin and muscle of the abdomen as well as some extra fatty tissue. Dr. Medalie proposed an abdominoplasty procedure with muscle plication (tightening) and side and flank liposuction as an outpatient. She agreed and is shown 3 months after her body contouring surgery. She also desired bilateral breast augmentation to help correct her deflated breast appearance. She chose 405 cc silicone implants to be placed in a dual plane technique. In her post op photos, she has excellent reduction of loose skin and stretch marks as well as good tightening of the abdominal wall and is very happy with her body contouring results. Her breasts are fuller and more symmetric and complement her new abdomen.
What Is A Mommy Makeover?
The goal of a mommy makeover is to restore the shape and appearance of a woman’s body after childbearing. Many women notice changes in their bodies post-pregnancy. There are many areas of the body that can be addressed, most commonly the breasts, abdomen, waist, genitalia, and buttocks. A mommy makeover is typically performed as a single stage procedure. There are many techniques used to perform a mommy makeover, and many factors should be taken into consideration when choosing which techniques are best:
Abdominoplasty and right breast lift with left breast augment before photoAbdominoplasty and right breast lift with left breast augment after photo
This 36 year old patient from Cleveland, Ohio came to see Dr. Daniel A. Medalie of Cleveland Plastic Surgery at his Beachwood office to discuss a mommy makeover by tummy tuck surgery and liposuction as well as breast enhancement. On exam she has a great deal of loose skin and muscle of the abdomen as well as some extra fatty tissue. Dr. Medalie proposed an abdominoplasty procedure with muscle plication (tightening) and side and flank liposuction as an outpatient. She agreed and is shown 6 months after her body contouring surgery. She also desired a breast lift on the right side with more volume on the left to match the right. She underwent a full right breast lift (mastopexy) and a small silicone breast implant on the left. She has excellent reduction of loose skin and stretch marks as well as good tightening of the abdominal wall and is very happy with her body contouring results. Her breasts are much more symmetric and complement her new abdomen.
What Is A Mommy Makeover?
The goal of a mommy makeover is to restore the shape and appearance of a woman’s body after childbearing. Many women notice changes in their bodies post-pregnancy. There are many areas of the body that can be addressed, most commonly the breasts, abdomen, waist, genitalia, and buttocks. A mommy makeover is typically performed as a single stage procedure. There are many techniques used to perform a mommy makeover, and many factors should be taken into consideration when choosing which techniques are best:
Breast augmentation with Ideal saline implants, before photoBreast augmentation with Ideal saline implants, after photo
This pleasant 35 year old woman came to see Dr. Daniel A. Medalie of Cleveland Plastic Surgery at his Beachwood office to inquire about breast augmentation. She is 5’2″ and 116 lbs and wanted to be a C cup to small D after surgery. She chose to proceed with the surgery in an outpatient setting and had a successful 1 hour procedure. The implants placed were IDEAL saline 330 cc breast implants. The patient is shown 1 year after her breast enhancement and is very pleased with the results.
A breast augmentation procedure includes the following steps:
Step 1 – Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. Dr. Medalie prefers light general anesthesia with the patient breathing fully on her own.
Step 2 – The Incision
Incisions are made in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring.We will discuss which incision options are appropriate for your desired outcome. Incision options include: along the areolar edge (peri-areolar incision), the fold under the breast (inframammary fold) and in the armpit (axillary incision). I prefer the IM fold approach because recent literature suggests that it is associated with a lower incidence of capsular contracture. Ths incision for a silicone implant is by necessity larger than one for a saline implant because the silicone implant is pre-filled and the saline implant starts empty.
Incisions vary based on the type of breast implant, degree of enlargement desired, your particular anatomy and patient-surgeon preference.
Step 3 – Inserting And Placing The Breast Implant
After the incision is made, a breast implant is inserted into a pocket either:
A. Under the pectoral muscle (a submuscular placement)
B. Directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (a submammary/ subglandular placement)
C. Dual-plane which is partly under the muscle (in the upper pole) and partly under the breast (lower pole). This procedure is more frequently used in women who have had children and have some droop to their breasts.
The method for inserting and positioning breast implants depends on the type of implant, degree of enlargement desired, your body type and your surgeon’s recommendations.
Step 4 – Closing The Incisions
Incisions are closed with layered sutures (that dissolve) in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive and surgical tape to close the skin.
Over time the incision lines will fade. The quality of scar depends on many things, including your genetics, exposure of your body to nicotine and infection.
Step 5 – See The Results
The results of breast augmentation are immediately visible. Typically they start high and then over time settle to a lower and more natural appearance. I usually tell patients that what they see is not what they get until 3 months after the surgery.
*Plastic surgery results can vary from patient to patient and are not guaranteed
FtM Double Incision Top Surgery Before PictureFtM Double Incision Top Surgery After Picture
This pleasant 23 year old trans man came to see Dr. Medalie in regards to FtM “top surgery”. He had too much tissue for the peri-areolar approach and was scheduled for a double incision mastectomy with free nipple grafting and chest contouring by limited liposuction. His gender confirming surgery was performed as an outpatient and took approximately 90 minutes to perform. In his after picture he is shown 1 year post DI and is very pleased with his contour. *Results may vary
Below I have attached some information from my main web page that discussed the surgical options for top surgery. Here is a link to that page:
Top Surgery for Transgender Patients
The procedure is based on the following:
Size and shape of breast
Elasticity of skin
Patient’s needs and preferences
PERI: In general, patients who have smaller breasts can have the entire surgery performed by having a small incision at the outer edge of the areola from 12:00 to 6:00 o’clock. A lighted retractor and surgical scissors are used to perform a complete sub-cutaneous mastectomy. Liposuction of the chest is also performed as needed.This provides the most optimal results and can be almost invisible after it heals. If the skin appears a little looser at the start of the case then a complete peri-areolar incision is made. A small amount of skin is removed (in a doughnut pattern , also known as-“peri-areolar or “purse-string” mastopexy”). A subcutaneous mastectomy is performed and then the outer edge of the skin is closed with a purse-string to the newly down-sized areola. By necessity, the edges of the incision around the nipple will be “scalloped” or bunched up initially. This settles down to a great degree over time. If the patient understands that scar revision may be necessary, this is a very reasonable approach. The nipple may experience compromise of its blood supply and also have sensation or erectile capacity changes.
Double Incision: In those patients with a large amount of breast tissue with excessive skin of poor quality and droop, it is usually recommend to remove the excess skin and breast tissue in the crease of the pectoralis muscles (elliptical or double incision mastectomy) and put the nipples and areolae back on as grafts. This surgery has the advantage of immediate and predictable results. I can contour the skin flaps and place the nipples where I want to. It has the disadvantage of permanently altering the sensation and erectile capacity of the nipples (and sometimes the pigmentation), and it leaves larger scars on the chest. Over time they fade and flatten out. At each end of the scar, “dog-ears” may form. These are small bunches of tissue created by the closing of the ellipse as a straight line. They tend to settle down over time, but may need to be revised. I always try and address the dog ears at the time of surgery but this may extend the length of the scar. Dog ears are more likely in patients who are heavier and have more tissue to start with. I always perform liposuction of the central and lateral chest (to flatten the dog ears) as well as the area in front of the armpit. I have been asked why a scar may meet in the center of the chest on some top surgery results but not on others. This is dependent on pre-existing anatomy. If the tissue meets in the middle (such as in the example right below) then the scar by necessity will meet in the middle (this can’t be seen in the example because of the patient’s chest hair.)
This pleasant 33 year old woman came to see Dr. Daniel A. Medalie of Cleveland Plastic Surgery at his Beachwood office to inquire about breast augmentation. She is 5’2″ and 158 lbs and wanted to be a full D after surgery cup. She chose to proceed with the surgery in an outpatient setting and had a successful 1 hour procedure. The implants placed were Allergan, smooth, round, moderate profile plus 415 cc silicone breast implants. The patient is shown 4 months after her breast enhancement and is very pleased with the results.
A breast augmentation procedure includes the following steps:
Step 1 – Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. Dr. Medalie prefers light general anesthesia with the patient breathing fully on her own.
Step 2 – The Incision
Incisions are made in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring.We will discuss which incision options are appropriate for your desired outcome. Incision options include: along the areolar edge (peri-areolar incision), the fold under the breast (inframammary fold) and in the armpit (axillary incision). I prefer the IM fold approach because recent literature suggests that it is associated with a lower incidence of capsular contracture. Ths incision for a silicone implant is by necessity larger than one for a saline implant because the silicone implant is pre-filled and the saline implant starts empty.
Incisions vary based on the type of breast implant, degree of enlargement desired, your particular anatomy and patient-surgeon preference.
Step 3 – Inserting And Placing The Breast Implant
After the incision is made, a breast implant is inserted into a pocket either:
A. Under the pectoral muscle (a submuscular placement)
B. Directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (a submammary/ subglandular placement)
C. Dual-plane which is partly under the muscle (in the upper pole) and partly under the breast (lower pole). This procedure is more frequently used in women who have had children and have some droop to their breasts.
The method for inserting and positioning breast implants depends on the type of implant, degree of enlargement desired, your body type and your surgeon’s recommendations.
Step 4 – Closing The Incisions
Incisions are closed with layered sutures (that dissolve) in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive and surgical tape to close the skin.
Over time the incision lines will fade. The quality of scar depends on many things, including your genetics, exposure of your body to nicotine and infection.
Step 5 – See The Results
The results of breast augmentation are immediately visible. Typically they start high and then over time settle to a lower and more natural appearance. I usually tell patients that what they see is not what they get until 3 months after the surgery.
*Plastic surgery results can vary from patient to patient and are not guaranteed
FtM top surgery before peri procedureFtM top surgery after peri procedure
This 19 year old transgender patient contacted my office seeking FtM top surgery. He was scheduled for a peri-areolar approach to his double mastectomy. This is also known as the keyhole approach or partial peri procedure. He is now shown 14 months after the procedure. He has excellent symmetry and contour and barely visible scars and is very pleased with the aesthetic result.
Top Surgery double incision pre-op photoFtM top surgery double incision post-op photo
This very pleasant trans man contacted Dr. Medalie of Cleveland Plastic Surgery seeking FtM top surgery. Because of his starting chest size and skin excess it was decided that he would be a better candidate for the double incision mastectomy with nipple grafting procedure versus the peri- areolar surgery. Chest contouring with liposuction was also performed. The DI took place on an outpatient basis at Brainard Surgery center in Beachwood , Ohio. It lasted 1.5 hours and the patient did very well post-operatively. He is shown 9 months out from his double mastectomy and has an excellent contour with good nipple placement and sizing. He is fully active and working on his chest musculature.