At South Coast Plastic Surgery, we employ the most advanced surgical techniques for gender-affirming top surgery, either MTF or FTM. Our entire team of professionals, from our fellowship trained plastic surgeons to our nurses and support staff are honored to participate in the journey to total wellness and creating an upper body that is in alignment with who you are as an individual.

What is MTF top surgery?

MTF top surgery creates feminine, natural-looking breasts. At South Coast Plastic Surgery in Irvine, every MTF top surgery is 100% customized to reflect the vision you have for your body. The procedure may include the use of tissue expanders and the placement of breast implants.

Before & After

MTF top surgery procedure in Irvine and Ladera Ranch

We perform this critical surgery with FDA-approved saline or silicone implants. The majority of our transitioning patients prefer the natural weight, feel, and bounce of silicone, as it more closely matches natural breast tissue. Saline implants have the advantage of requiring a slightly shorter incision, as they are filled after being placed.

The incision placement could be around the areola, beneath the armpit, or in the natural fold where the breast tissue meets the chest. Once the incision is created, the implants are inserted. They are placed below the glandular tissue or beneath the pectoral muscle. The surgery requires one to two hours to complete. It is performed under general anesthesia in the privacy of our state-of-the-art outpatient surgery center in Irvine.

Schedule A Consultation

FTM top surgery in Irvine and Ladera Ranch

FTM top surgery is performed to remove breast tissue to create a firm, flat, masculine chest. The surgical approach will be selected to be appropriate for the individual. The result is a contoured upper chest that appears naturally masculine, free from the excess of breast tissue associated with a female body. This procedure varies in the time it takes to complete, and may require several hours based on the approach that is used.

What is the procedure for an FTM surgery?

In a bilateral top surgery with nipple grafts, the nipple structure is decreased in size, reshaped, and then repositioned on the chest to create the most natural look. For those with less breast tissue to remove, a circumareolar approach may be used, with the incisions placed around the areolas through which the breast glandular tissue is removed. In some less common cases, a “keyhole incision” may be used, which is only appropriate for patients with very little natural breast tissue. In this method, the nipple structure is not relocated.

Preparing for MTF or FTM top surgery

You will need to prepare properly for this life-changing surgery so that it proceeds smoothly and your recovery is as fast as possible. To prepare, you will need to:

Avoid consuming any alcohol for at least one week before your surgery
Completely quit smoking for three weeks before the surgery
Arrange for transportation to and from our clinic
Arrange for assistance for the first day or two after your surgery
Fill all prescriptions before the day of your surgery

Arrange your home for comfort, with everything you need within close reach
Purchase easy-to-prepare foods and drinks
Prepare your sleeping area with a wedge or extra pillows, as you will need to sleep on your back with the upper body elevated during the early stages of healing
Plan on wearing loose, comfortable clothing with a front closure

What is the recovery from MTF or FTM surgery?

The recovery time varies from patient to patient, as everyone heals at a different rate. You will find the early stages of recovery to be the most uncomfortable, but you will have prescription pain medication to keep you comfortable during this phase.

You may feel some discomfort from the compression garment that has been placed over the area to protect your incisions and keep the upper chest stable. You can expect swelling and bruising, which typically fades in about two to three weeks.

To avoid putting any stress on your incisions, you will be restricted from raising your arms above your shoulder level for two to three weeks. In about six to eight weeks, you can return to vigorous physical activities such as exercise or sports.

Meet Dr. Ali Qureshi your surgeon

You are on an important journey, and it is critical that you are under the care of an exceptionally talented plastic surgeon. Dr. Ali Qureshi has achieved acclaim in his field, respected for his artistry, advanced techniques, and superior outcomes. Beyond his outstanding surgical skills, he is honored to be chosen to help you on your journey, and he has the ultimate respect for your bravery. You can expect warmth, kindness, and understanding from Dr. Ali and every member of his professional team at every phase of your surgery. He works closely with the LGBTQ Center of Orange County providing excellent, safe care to transgender patients.

Why choose South Coast?

You will find our team of medical professionals at South Coast Plastic Surgery to be talented surgeons as well as caring, warm human beings. Dr. Ali is exceptionally talented and employs the most advanced surgical techniques. He is known for achieving outstanding results in both MTF and MTF top surgery. We invite you to meet with us. You will feel comfortable and supported, and you will see that you are under the care of a professional team that genuinely cares about you and your life ahead.

Top Surgery