Welcome! You have made the right choice in choosing Dr. Medalie for your Gender Confirming Surgery. Dr. Medalie has been performing gender affirming care for 25+ years and is widely recognized as an expert in the field. If you would like to schedule an evaluation of your chest or other body area to determine what type of operation may be necessary, please e-mail front and side photos to Valerie at valerie@clevelandplasticsurgery.com. Before you contact her please download the history form, and send it along with the photos. She can also answer most of your logistical questions. Typical fees for “top surgery” are $8000-9000 (this includes anesthesia and facility fees and all post operative care).
All correspondence, forms and pictures should be scanned and e-mailed to Valerie at
🩺 About Dr. Daniel A. Medalie, M.D. — Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Specializing in Transgender Surgery
Dr. Daniel A. Medalie is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon nationally recognized for his expertise in gender-affirming surgery. As the founder of Cleveland Plastic Surgery in Beachwood, Ohio, Dr. Medalie has spent more than 25 years helping transgender and non-binary individuals achieve alignment between their bodies and identities through precise, compassionate, and artistic surgical care.
One of the earliest surgeons in the Midwest to offer comprehensive transgender procedures, Dr. Medalie has performed thousands of gender-affirming operations for patients from across the United States and abroad. His practice combines advanced surgical technique with genuine respect for every patient’s unique journey, emphasizing safety, aesthetic excellence, and long-term well-being.
A Leading Specialist in FTM and MTF Gender-Affirming Surgery
Dr. Medalie’s transgender practice encompasses the full spectrum of top surgery and tracheal shave procedures, including:
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FTM Top Surgery – Double Incision with Nipple Grafts
Designed for patients with moderate to larger chest size or reduced skin elasticity, this technique allows for precise chest contouring, nipple resizing, and ideal placement to create a natural, masculine chest appearance. -
FTM Top Surgery – Peri-Areolar (“Keyhole”) Procedure
A minimal-scar approach appropriate for patients with smaller chests and good skin tone, producing a flat, sculpted contour while preserving nipple sensation and minimizing downtime. -
FTM Top Surgery Revisions
For patients seeking refinements or corrections after prior surgery, Dr. Medalie provides individualized revision strategies to enhance chest shape, symmetry, and scar quality. -
MTF Breast Augmentation and Feminizing Procedures
Using implants or fat grafting, Dr. Medalie achieves natural feminine contours in harmony with each patient’s frame, balancing artistry with medical precision. -
Tracheal Shave (Chondrolaryngoplasty)
Through a small incision under the chin, this delicate procedure reduces the prominence of the Adam’s apple while preserving voice and airway function — often performed as part of a comprehensive feminization plan.
Surgical Philosophy and Patient-Centered Care
Every transgender patient at Cleveland Plastic Surgery receives individualized care built on trust, respect, and collaboration. Dr. Medalie personally conducts all consultations and develops a surgical plan that reflects both aesthetic goals and functional needs. His approach emphasizes:
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Honesty and education — detailed discussion of techniques, expectations, and recovery
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Artistic precision — refined surgical design informed by his background in fine arts and photography
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Safety and comfort — accredited surgical facilities, experienced support staff, and attentive follow-up
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Accessibility — affordable self-pay options and assistance for insurance documentation when applicable
Dr. Medalie believes that gender-affirming surgery is not merely a physical transformation but a vital step toward self-realization and emotional well-being. Patients describe his demeanor as compassionate, direct, and deeply understanding of the complexities of transition.
Nationally Recognized Expertise
Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Medalie trained at Harvard University and Cornell University Medical College and completed plastic surgery residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center — one of the nation’s premier plastic surgery training programs. He later served as an assistant professor of plastic surgery at Case Western Reserve University before founding his private practice.
His work has been featured in major medical journals, professional symposia, and patient-education platforms. Today, he remains one of the most experienced gender-affirming surgeons in the United States, offering both primary and revision surgeries to individuals from every region.
Serving Patients from Cleveland, Ohio — and Beyond
Located in Beachwood, Ohio, Dr. Medalie’s practice serves patients from Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Detroit, Chicago, and nationwide. Many patients travel from across the U.S. for his skill in FTM Top Surgery, MTF Feminization, and Tracheal Shave, as well as his reputation for natural results, meticulous technique, and genuine compassion.
Whether you are beginning your gender-affirming journey or seeking refinement after prior surgery, Dr. Medalie and his team provide a welcoming, informed, and supportive environment dedicated to helping you feel at home in your body.
