What is Top Surgery?
Top surgery, also known as gender-affirming surgery, is a procedure designed to reshape the chest for a more masculine or feminine appearance, with the aim of helping align the patient’s physical appearance with their gender identity. This is achieved through the removal or enhancement of breast tissue or additional breast implants. There are two types of gender-affirming top surgery procedures in the UK: female-to-male (FTM) and male-to-female (MTF) – at Enhance, we have a team of highly skilled surgeons, all of whom are enthusiastic about working with patients to reach their body goals. We currently offer male-to-female (MTF) top surgery, but do not offer female-to-male (FTM) top surgery.
Male-To-Female Transgender Top Surgery (MTF)
MTF (male-to-female) top surgery, also known as transgender breast augmentation or feminising chest surgery, is a procedure designed to create a traditionally feminine chest. This is achieved using breast implants, fat transfer, or a combination of both, depending on your aesthetic goals and your surgeon’s recommendations.
Female-To-Male (FTM) Transgender Top Surgery
FTM (female-to-male) top surgery, also referred to as chest masculinisation surgery, is a procedure where the breast tissue is removed to create a flatter, more masculine chest appearance. This is not a procedure we can currently offer at Enhance.
Ways to book your FREE consultation with us
Book your consultation with us today by phone or email. Our team will be in touch soon.
Who is Suitable for Top Surgery?
At Enhance Medical, patients must meet the following criteria in order to have top surgery:
- A formal diagnosis by a qualified gender specialist, psychiatrist, or clinical psychologist. (Qualified here means a clinician who is registered with the appropriate body for their profession within the UK e.g. – GMC or HCPC).
- Lived continuously for at least 12 months in the gender role that is congruent with their gender identity and can evidence this via a healthcare professional.
- Evidence by the healthcare professionals supporting their transition, that the patient has access to mental health support for their surgical transition and if they have any existing or profound mental health concerns, they can evidence they have received active treatment for this and have had a period of stability with their mood for more than 3 months.
- Provide a referral/supporting letter recommending surgery from an NHS gender identity clinic, OR a private Gender Specialist
Learn more about meeting the criteria for top surgery in the UK, and with Enhance Medical with our guide to top surgery.
Why Do People Choose to Have Top Surgery?
Top surgery can offer a range of physical and emotional benefits, helping transgender and non-binary individuals feel more comfortable in their bodies. For many trans individuals, this surgery is more than just a procedure – it’s a crucial step towards feeling complete and aligning their body with their true gender identity. Some reasons might include:
- It can provide people with gender affirmation by aligning their physical appearance with their gender identity, reducing gender dysphoria.
- This surgery can increase confidence and self-esteem.
- For FTM top surgery – this procedure eliminates the need for chest binders, improving comfort.
- It provides greater freedom in clothing choices, offering a more comfortable fit.
MTF Top Surgery Patient Journeys
Mikayla’s Top Surgery Journey with Enhance
Mikayla decided to undergo breast augmentation, and her procedure was carried out by specialist Dr. Di Taranto on 7th December 2024. Mikayla’s experience at Enhance Medical provided her with the physical results she desired and the emotional support that made the process smooth, comfortable, and reassuring. View Mikayla’s Instagram to learn more about her top surgery journey.
“I had my breast augmentation with Dr Di Taranto on 7th December 2024. He’s such an amazing surgeon who’s got magic hands. My nurse, Oxana, was super nice and looked after me once I woke up. I was only in theatre for about an hour. I had 375cc over the muscle, going from A cup to a D cup.”
Tyler’s Top Surgery Journey with Enhance
“As a trans patient I have been treated with so much love and respect and dignity from the first email to the operating table, Gail my coordinator has assisted me with emails from 8am – 10pm some days! She really obviously loves what she does and is fabulous!! Dr Di Taranto has changed my life and been an amazing, life changing surgeon can’t recommend enough.”
Jasmine’s Top Surgery Journey with Enhance
“Couldn’t fault Enhance and their lovely staff at the Hammersmith hospital and, of course, Dr Ottaviani! The whole process has been incredibly life-changing (myself being a transgender woman) and everyone has been extremely supportive and understanding! Couldn’t recommend enough! Thank you, Enhance 🖤”
How Much Does Top Surgery Cost?
The cost of top surgery can vary depending on factors such as the type of procedure and your individual needs.
At Enhance Medical, the cost of MTF top surgery starts at £4,595.
As your initial consultation is free, this cost will cover:
- Pre-Operative Assessment
- Top Surgery Procedure and Surgical Care Team
- Post-Operative Aftercare for 12 Months
At Enhance we own our hospitals, and only use our dedicated in-house surgeons. Therefore, we can pass our savings, such as overheads and agency fees, to our patients to ensure we can offer the best possible cosmetic surgery pricing and the best & dedicated care in the UK. We also offer monthly finance options.
Our Cosmetic Surgeons
- Registered With and Licensed By The GMC
- Highly Qualified and Fully Licensed
- Specialist Surgeons and Team
- Over 35 Years Experience
- Leading Day Case Breast Reshaping Specialists
Find out more about our in-house specialist surgeons at Enhance Medical.
How is Top Surgery Performed?
MTF Top Surgery Procedure
Male-to-female breast augmentation surgery involves the use of breast implants (or fat transfer) to enhance the chest, creating a fuller appearance. This procedure involves:
- An incision around the areola or in the crease under the breast.
- Silicone implants will be placed under the breast tissue. There is the option to transfer fat, muscles, or tissues from other parts of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, into the breasts instead.
- Once the implants or fat is in the correct position, the surgeon will close the incision.
- A sterile dressing and a compression garment will then be applied to the area of the incision.
There are instances where the skin is not elasticated enough to have an implant inserted in the chest. To help this, a tissue expander can be placed under the chest skin or muscle to help gradually elasticate the skin. over numerous appointments, the implant Is gradually filled with saline solution to stretch the skin to create space for a permanent implant. This can be done over a few weeks or months depending on your skin and your desired goal.
FTM Top Surgery Procedure
Female-to-male top surgery involves the removal of the breast tissue to create a flatter chest. Two main surgical techniques are commonly used in FTM top surgery:
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- Double incision mastectomy
- Periareolar mastectomy
Recovering from MTF Top Surgery
Recovering from MTF top surgery can vary from person to person. Initial recovery usually takes one to two weeks, but full recovery can take anything from six to eight weeks, and the final results may take several months to a year to develop. During your recovery, it’s important to follow aftercare guidance closely and avoid strenuous activities or intense exercise to prevent any strain on your chest. Be sure to get plenty of rest and wear your compression garment to support optimal healing.
Your Patient journey with Enhance
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1Book your consultation
To start your surgery process, firstly book your consultation by calling us on 0800 060 8623 or request a call back here.
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2Meet your surgeon
Once you have booked your consultation, you will meet with your surgeon and patient care co-ordinator to discuss, in detail, your planned procedure.
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3Book your surgery
After your comprehensive consultation, your patient care co-ordinator will work with you to book a convenient date for surgery.
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4Pre Op Assessment
Prior to your surgery date, you will have your pre-op assessment where we will go through your medical history with you.
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5Surgery Day!
On your surgery day, you’ll have a dedicated medical team of nurses, surgeons and anaesthetists at your chosen facility. It’s what makes us the UK’s Leading Day Case Provider.
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6Aftercare
Following surgery, your 12-month aftercare journey begins. This includes unlimited wound care appointments and surgeon reviews.
Top Surgery FAQs
Read through frequently asked questions about top surgery, and MTF top surgery. Any questions you may have will also be answered during your free consultation to provide you with complete peace of mind.
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What kind of scarring should I expect following top surgery?
All surgery creates trauma to the skin, which can result in temporary or permanent scarring. Top surgery can cause visible scars around the chest area, but the position of these marks will vary depending on the surgical techniques used. Whilst all patients heal differently, our Surgeons aim to minimise scarring as much as possible, and scar aftercare can help improve their appearance.
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What are the risks of top surgery?
Top surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks. Potential risks include:
– Infection around the incision
– There will be visible scarring that may take time to heal
– Excessive bleeding during or after top surgery can occur. This can also include a risk of hematoma
– A reaction to the anaesthetic
– Temporary or permanent changes to sensations in the chest. For example, a loss of feeling in the nipples.
– Asymmetry can occur when both sides are uneven after surgery
To reduce the risks of complications, following your surgeon’s advice regarding wearing your compression vest and activities to avoid is essential. At Enhance Medical, we provide 12 months of comprehensive aftercare for all patients, fully inclusive of your surgery price.
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Will I need to take time off work after my top surgery?
In order to fully rest after top surgery, you will need to take some time off work during the initial few days. Our specialist team of surgeons will provide you with all the necessary aftercare information that will help with planning this before and after your procedure.
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What will happen during my top surgery consultation?
Upon your initial visit, you will meet with your surgeon, along with one of our Patient Care Coordinators (PCC) at the clinic closest to you. This consultation is an opportunity to discuss the procedures you are interested in and your goals with your surgeon; they’ll discuss the procedure with you, answering any questions you may have. Our PCC’s support all prospective patients through their surgical journey, and act as liaison between patient and surgeon.
Your chest will be thoroughly examined, and medical photographs will be taken to help create a surgical plan. From there, we can determine the best approach based on your individual circumstances.
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Do I need a referral to get top surgery?
Yes, you will need a referral from an NHS gender identity clinic, or gender specialist. They must be a psychiatrist or psychologist who is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or the General Medical Council (GMC). In order to meet the criteria for top surgery, patients are also required to provide a specific letter from their GP and/or psychiatrist supporting the surgery.
In the UK, there are strict guidelines around who is able to perform top surgeries. It’s recommended surgeons who perform gender-affirming surgical procedures must have the following credentials:
Training and documented supervision in gender-affirming surgical procedures
Maintenance of an active practice in gender-affirming surgical procedures
Knowledge about gender diverse identities and expressions
Continuing education in the field of gender-affirmation surgery
Tracking of surgical outcomes
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Do I need to be on hormones to have top surgery?
It’s strongly recommended that a patient be taking HRT ahead of having male-to-female (MTF) top surgery.
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How do I schedule a consultation?
To book a free consultation and start your journey with Enhance Medical, complete our contact form and a member of our team will be in touch. You can also call us directly on 08000608623.
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