What Is FTM Top Surgery? A Guide to Gender-Affirming Chest Surgery

For many transgender men and transmasculine individuals, top surgery is a life-changing step in their gender-affirming journey. The procedure removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest to create a flatter, more masculine appearance, helping many patients feel more comfortable and confident in their body.

Dr Ardeshir Vahidi has performed hundreds of gender-affirming top surgery procedures, providing personalised care and natural-looking results while supporting patients throughout every stage of their journey.

What Is FTM Top Surgery?

FTM (Female-to-Male) top surgery is a gender-affirming surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest to create a masculine contour.

The aim is to achieve a flat, natural-looking chest that reflects the patient's goals while preserving symmetry and creating the best possible aesthetic outcome.

Many patients find that top surgery significantly improves body confidence, reduces gender dysphoria and removes the need for chest binding.

Who Is Top Surgery Suitable For?

Top surgery may be suitable for individuals who:

• Identify as transgender or transmasculine.

• Experience gender dysphoria relating to their chest.

• Wish to achieve a flatter, masculine chest.

• Are in good general health.

• Have realistic expectations about the procedure and recovery.

During your consultation, Dr Ardeshir Vahidi will discuss your goals, assess your anatomy and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach.

How Long Does Top Surgery Take?

The procedure typically takes 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on the surgical technique required and the individual's anatomy.

Top surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, and most patients stay in hospital for one night before returning home the following day.

What Is Recovery Like?

Recovery varies between individuals, but a typical timeline includes:

First Week

• Compression garment worn continuously.

• Surgical drains may be used for the first few days.

• Mild swelling, bruising and discomfort are expected.

• Light walking is encouraged.

2–3 Weeks

• Most patients feel comfortable returning to desk-based work.

• Swelling gradually reduces.

• Normal daily activities become easier.

4–6 Weeks

• Most patients can resume light exercise.

• Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should still be avoided until advised.

3–6 Months

• The chest continues to soften and settle.

• Scars begin to mature and fade.

• Final contour becomes more apparent.

  
  

What Results Can I Expect?

The goal of top surgery is to create a flat, masculine chest that looks natural and complements your body shape.

Every procedure is individually tailored, taking into account chest size, skin quality and personal goals. Dr Ardeshir Vahidi also places great emphasis on chest contour, scar placement and nipple positioning to achieve balanced, aesthetically pleasing results.

Why Choose Dr Ardeshir Vahidi?

Dr Ardeshir Vahidi has extensive experience in gender-affirming surgery and has performed hundreds of successful top surgery procedures.

Patients choose Dr Vahidi for his:

• Personalised approach to care.

• Extensive surgical experience.

• Natural-looking results.

• Attention to detail.

• Compassionate support throughout the entire journey.

  
  

Book Your Consultation

Choosing top surgery is a significant decision, and every patient's journey is unique. Dr Ardeshir Vahidi provides comprehensive consultations to discuss your goals, answer your questions and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.

If you're considering FTM top surgery, contact our team today to arrange a consultation and take the next step in your gender-affirming journey with confidence.