Top surgery, also known as chest masculinization or feminization, is a gender-affirming surgical procedure that alters the characteristics of the chest to create a more masculine or feminine appearance for transgender and nonbinary individuals. The surgery involves the removal or augmentation of breast tissue and reshaping of the chest. Here are some key points about top surgery:
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Procedure:
- Surgeons use various approaches to perform top surgery, including double incision mastectomy, keyhole top surgery, and periareolar incision subcutaneous mastectomy.
- The specific technique used depends on the amount of breast tissue and the desired outcome.
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Candidates:
- Individuals who may benefit from top surgery are those seeking a more masculine or feminine chest appearance to align with their gender identity.
- It is important for candidates to have a realistic understanding of the results that can be achieved with the surgery.
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Recovery:
- The recovery period after top surgery typically involves restrictions on upper body activities for several weeks.
- As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, such as bleeding, infection, or reaction to anesthesia.
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Gender Dysphoria:
- Top surgery may help alleviate gender dysphoria, which is the distress that occurs when an individuals sex assigned at birth does not match their gender identity.
Top surgery is an important step for many transgender and nonbinary individuals in their gender affirmation journey, and it plays a significant role in improving their mental well-being and quality of life.
