Breast surgery for gender reassignment
Breast surgery for gender reassignment – also known as sex change breast surgery and transgender breast surgery – is a procedure which is typically used in male to female gender reassignment. It usually uses implants for a one stage breast augmentation, although expanders can also be used in a two-stage process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast surgery for gender reassignment is also referred to as sex change breast surgery and transgender breast surgery. BreastClinik normally offers this procedure as part of a male to female gender reassignment. Breast surgery for gender reassignment can use implants for a one-stage breast augmentation. Alternatively, expanders can be used as part of a two-stage process. The breast augmentation surgery itself will change and increase the breast size, with implants or expanders helping to provide a feminine shape which is also proportionate with the rest of the body.
The breast enlargement element of breast surgery for gender reassignment can use a variety of implants, depending on the objectives of the individual. All have different effects on the shape and feel of the breasts. Patients can benefit from a consultancy which advises them on the type of implant which aligns best with their personal objectives.
Incisions are typically made in a pre-determined location which seeks to minimise visible scarring. The implant is then inserted and placed into a pocket over the pectoral muscle or behind the breast tissue – which technique is used depends on a variety of factors. Incisions are closed using sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape. Surgical time is typically one to three hours.
Another method of performing breast augmentation as part of breast surgery for gender reassignment involves tissue expanders. This is a two-stage process which enables the expansion of the breast’s muscle and skin with the use of a temporary tissue expander. A few months after the first stage of this procedure, the expander is taken out and the patient is given either a permanent breast implant or a microvascular flap reconstruction.
Among the types of expanders which can be used are saline expanders; the most common expander which is used in breast augmentation. Saline expanders are injected with saline by syringe through a fill port which is placed in the skin. There are also aeroform tissue expanders, which contain carbon dioxide which is released from a cartridge held inside the expander itself. A remote control is used by the patient to manage the expansion process.
Patients are typically asked not to eat or drink for a six-hour window prior to breast surgery for gender reassignment. An anaesthetist will be on hand to discuss your chosen form of anaesthesia before entering the operating room.
Breast surgery for gender reassignment is the patient’s personal choice. Each individual will weigh up the benefits of treatments with potential risks. Signed consent must be provided before the procedure is undergone. Potential risks of breast surgery for gender reassignment include changes to breast sensation, tight scar tissue, leakage of implants, and revision surgery being needed in the future.
It is understood that around one in 100 people who undertake breast augmentation will have a permanent change in sensation of the areola/nipple or the skin of the breast – this applies to one or both sides. It is also fairly common for some patients to develop a contracture of some degree around the implant. In rare cases, if the contracture becomes mishapen, the implant will have to be removed.
Patients who have undergone breast surgery for gender reassignment usually stay in hospital overnight following treatment. It can take up to two weeks to resume daily activities after the procedure, while full exercise might only be advised after up to three months.
In some cases patients can be prescribed pain relievers to help them deal with the discomfort in the early stages of recovery. After a week or so of rest, typically the worst of the soreness will subside. Over the first few weeks following breast surgery for gender reassignment, the implant will naturally settle into place – daily massage can help with this process, beginning gently. In general, larger implants require a longer recovery time after surgery.
Some transfeminine individuals are able to bring about body changes through hormone therapy, but in many cases can still have the desire for larger breasts. Breast augmentation is able to increase the size of the breasts significantly more than hormone therapy.
Elena is an internationally recognised cosmetic surgeon whose work proceeds her, having won multiple awards over the course of her career. Patients can benefit from the empathetic attitude of this respected female consultant – who operates in several UK locations including Bristol, Sussex and London – and the cutting edge techniques which she employs. The Breastclinik has a ‘patient first’ ethos and is renowned for the superb standard of aftercare which it provides.
The total cost of the surgery will be confirmed after the first consultation.
The cost includes the hospital, surgeon and anaesthetic fees. It also covers all post-operative visits. The initial consultation fee will be invoiced separately. The prices apply only at the time of publication and are subject to changes without notification.
Surgery costs TBA
Initial consultation fee £150
Surgery details
Anaesthetic: General
Follow up: 1,4,12 weeks,12 months
Final result: 3-12 months
Surgical time: TBA on consultation
Recovery time: 4-8 weeks
