Male to Female Breast Augmentation

What is Male to Female Breast Augmentation?

Male to female breast augmentation, also known as MTF breast augmentation, is a surgical procedure to assist a transwoman or nonbinary person’s journey to achieving the body they can feel comfortable in. The MTF procedure is similar to a traditional breast augmentation in both surgical technique and the patient’s decision-making process, allowing patients to customize their results with their choice of implant type, size, placement, and more.

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Who is a Candidate

Candidates for male to female breast augmentation are transwomen or nonbinary individuals 18 years or older who want to go through a body transformation to improve their body confidence and self-esteem. Patients who are considering male to female breast augmentation must be physically and emotionally healthy. The decision to have this procedure can be an emotional one, so at least three months of counseling is recommended before having the procedure. A letter of recommendation may be required from a licensed health professional before surgery can be performed. The best candidates for male to female breast augmentation will be those who have realistic expectations for their results and expect dramatic improvement, not perfection. They must also be able to maintain a positive outlook throughout the experience and be committed to their breast augmentation journey.

Dr. Sweat and his staff are the most amazing team. From my first appointment, to my surgery, to my current after care I could not be more grateful and pleased with my outcome. They have been by my side through this journey and I could not have done it without them. I appreciate you Dr. Sweat and Staff!

The Procedure

The breast augmentation procedure will involve the use of implants to create the breast mound. In most cases, patients have enough skin elasticity to have implants placed in a single operation. In other instances, patients will require a two-step procedure where a tissue expander is used first to create room for the breast implant. This could be required if patients wish for very large implants. An incision will be made in the natural breast crease to create scarring that is as unnoticeable as possible. The implant will then be placed and the incision sutured closed. Just as in traditional breast augmentation, a Keller funnel is used to minimize manipulation, damage and potential contamination of the implant.

Saline vs Silicone Implants

Patients are encouraged to use silicone implants for their breast augmentation procedure since overlying tissue coverage can at times be minimal, with can lead to more visibility of the implant or ability to feel the implant. In general the silicone implant will provide a more natural look and feel. Dr. Sweat will go over implant options in more detail during an initial consultation. The implant that patients choose will be passed on their aesthetic goals, body type, and values.

Saline implants are approved for those 18 and older and are filled with sterile salt water, safe to be absorbed by the body in the event of a rupture, thus requiring no screening exams such as MRI to check for implant rupture. Saline implants typically require smaller incisions for their placement and can be filled after they have been placed in the breast pocket.

Silicone implants are composed of silicone gel which mimics the natural breast movement and feel. However, you must be 22 or older to opt for this material according to FDA device approval regulations. Silicone implants will hold their shape during a rupture, so regular MRI scans are required to ensure the strength of your implants and detect any sign of a leak or rupture.

Recovery and Results

After male to female breast augmentation, patients can expect a one to two week recovery period where they should rest and recover at home. This means taking at least a week off work or longer if your job is more strenuous. Patients should also plan to have someone there to drive them home from their procedure and care for them for the first day or two. Patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising during the recovery period. Pain can be managed first with prescription narcotics for the first few days then with an over-the-counter pain medication. Patients will also be provided with a surgical bra to wear for several weeks after their procedure. There will also be some movement and exercise restrictions that should be followed closely to ensure proper healing. This includes no exercise for about 4-6 weeks. After this time, patients can introduce exercise as they feel well enough and with the okay from Dr. Sweat.

It can take several months for swelling to fully diminish and for the implants to settle under the skin. Patients must be patient during this process and remember that the implants will continue to drop and become more natural looking. After this time, patients can enjoy their new breasts for improved body image and self-confidence.

For more information on the male to female breast augmentation, contact our office today. We can schedule your consultation with Dr. Sweat to discuss the procedure in more detail and answer any questions you might have.