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  1. Home /
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  3. FTM Post Op: Expectations After Transgender Surgery

FTM Post Op: Expectations After Transgender Surgery

Explore the transformative journey of FTM post-op experiences. Discover insights, support, and resources for a fulfilling and affirming transition.

  • Transgender Surgery
By Mitali Pawar 16th Jan '23 29th Mar '24
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According to a 2018 study published in the International Journal of Transgender Health, an estimated 25 million people worldwide identify as transgender.


 

- A 2018 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 89% of post-op transgender people reported it improved sexual functioning after gender-affirming Surgery.


 

- According to a 2017 survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality, over half (53%) of post-op transgender people said they felt happier and more satisfied with their lives after Surgery.


 

Transgender surgery

Female To Male Post Op refers to the period following gender reassignment surgery for individuals assigned female at birth and transitioning to male. The post op female to male surgery period is a time for recovery, healing, and adjusting to the physical and emotional changes that come with transitioning. It is an essential and life-changing step for many transgender individuals and can significantly improve their overall quality of life.


Recovery times vary depending on the specific procedures which includes penile transplant, keyhole surgery, etc. but generally, you can expect to take time off work and limit physical activity during the healing process.

Take the first step to recovery. Get in touch with us for your treatment.


Access to gender change surgery and healthcare for transgender individuals varies greatly worldwide, with some countries having more developed systems and resources than others. In addition, many people may not have access to gender reassignment surgery due to financial or societal barriers.


The journey toward FTM surgery can be both exciting and daunting, but with the right team of doctors and support system, it can be a life-changing experience. From the initial consultation to FTM post op surgery care, it is essential to understand the process thoroughly and know what to expect.

Let's take a look at the recovery process and what you can expect FTM post op.

What to expect after FTM surgery?

What to expect?

FTM Surgeries &

Procedure

What to Expect

FTM Top Surgery 
  • Recovery time: 2-4 weeks; 

     
  • Side effects: swelling, numbness, scarring; 

     
  • Stay in hospital: 2-4 days; 

     
  • FTM top surgery post op guidelines: avoid heavy lifting, chest binders for 6-8 weeks; 

     
  • When to resume activities: 6-8 weeks

FTM Bottom Surgery 

  •  Metoidioplasty
  • Recovery time: 2-4 weeks; 
  • Side effects: swelling, pain, numbness, scarring; 
  • Stay in hospital: 2-4 days; 
  • Post-op guidelines: avoid heavy lifting, follow instructions for catheter care and wound care; 
  • When to resume activities: 6-8 weeks




 

  •  Phalloplasty
  • Recovery time: 3-6 months; 
  • Side effects: swelling, pain, numbness, scarring; 
  • Stay in hospital: 5-7 days; 
  • Post-op guidelines for bottom surgery: avoid heavy lifting, follow instructions for catheter care, wound care, and penile pump use; 
  • When to resume activities: 3-6 months

FTM Facial Surgery

  •  Facial Feminization Surgery
  • Recovery time: 2-4 weeks; 
  • Side effects: swelling, pain, numbness, scarring; 
  • Stay in hospital: 1-2 days; 
  • Post-op guidelines: follow instructions for wound care and limited activity; 
  • When to resume activities: 6-8 weeks

Is the question, “Will I need to follow a special diet after FTM surgery?” lingering in your mind?

According to Dr. Javad Sajan of Allure Esthetic, who is one of the top surgeons for gender affirming surgery in the world, “Until the effects of general anesthesia wear off (usually around 24 hours), patients should avoid anything too heavy or eating too much at one time. Otherwise, there are no major dietary restrictions. If you have a history of poor healing, your surgeon may recommend a high protein diet, this can also just generally aid healing.”

Let's dive into the world of FTM surgery and explore your options and what results to expect from FTM post op!

Results of FTM Surgery

Life post op transgender surgery

Types of FTM Top Surgery

Results

Double incision surgery

  • It’s the most invasive and results in the most dramatic changes. 

     
  • Creates a new masculine chest contour by removing breast tissue and reshaping the chest. 

     
  • This procedure is recommended for individuals with larger chests or for those who want the most dramatic changes.

Peri-areolar surgery

  • It’s less invasive and involves removing breast tissue through incisions made around the areolas. 

     
  • This procedure results in less scarring and a more natural-looking masculine chest contour.

Keyhole surgery

  • It’s the least invasive and involves removing breast tissue through small incisions made around the areolas. 

     
  • This procedure results in minimal scarring and a more natural-looking masculine chest contour.


 

Results of FTM Top Surgery

Outcome after Surgery

Improvements seen Masculine chest contour, improved self-image and self-esteem, improved physical comfort and reduced gender dysphoria

When are results visible

Results are typically visible immediately after the surgery, but may take several weeks to fully heal and settle

How long do they last

Results are generally permanent, although revision surgeries may be necessary in some cases

Are they permanent

Yes, the results of top surgery are generally permanent

Your well-being is our priority - call us to book your appointment today
 

FTM Bottom Surgery

Life after FTM Bottom Surgery- Results

Metoidioplasty

 


 

  • Improvements seen: Functional neophallus, improved self-image and self-esteem, improved physical comfort and reduced gender dysphoria;

     


 

  • When are Results Visible?: Immediately after surgery, but may take several weeks to fully heal and settle;

     


 

  • How long do they last?- Results are generally permanent, although revision surgeries may be necessary in some cases;

     
  • Are they permanent? : Yes

Phalloplasty

 


 

  • Improvements seen: Functional neophallus, improved self-image and self-esteem, improved physical comfort and reduced gender dysphoria;

     
  • When are results visible?: 3-6 months after surgery, but may take up to a year to fully heal and settle;

     
  • How long do they last?: Results are generally permanent, although revision surgeries may be necessary in some cases;

     
  • Are they permanent?: Yes


 

FTM Facial Surgery

Life after FTM Facial Surgery- Results

Facial Feminization SurgeryImprovements seen: more masculine facial features, improved self-image and self-esteem, improved physical comfort and reduced gender dysphoria; 

Results visible: Immediately after surgery, but may take several weeks to fully heal and settle; 

How long do they last: Results are generally permanent, although revision surgeries may be necessary in some cases; Are they permanent: Yes


Success Rates of FTM surgery

Success rates of FTM

Are you wondering what is the success rate of FTM surgery? 
Find the answer in the below table. 

FTM Surgery & its’

Success Rate

FTM Top Surgery 

95-99%

FTM Bottom Surgery

95-99%

FTM Facial Surgery

Variable

Astonished? 

But remember, no rose exists without thorns! 

Complications Post FTM Surgery

Complications

Though the risk of complications from surgery are rare, some of the complications one can face post FTM surgeries are as follows- 

Type of FTM Surgery

Complications of FTM Surgeries

FTM Top Surgery Infection, asymmetry, bleeding, hematoma, poor scarring, nipple sensitivity loss.

FTM Bottom Surgery

Infection, asymmetry, poor scarring, urinary incontinence

FTM Facial Surgery

Infection, asymmetry, poor scarring, nerve damage.


Relapse Rate Post FTM Surgery

Low relapse rate

Are you worried what if I experience a relapse FTM post op?

Relax!

In general, relapse after FTM surgery is rare. However, it is important to understand that gender dysphoria, the distress caused by the incongruence between one's assigned gender and their gender identity, is a complex condition that may persist even after surgery.


It is possible for some individuals to experience a resurgence of gender dysphoria after surgery, particularly if the surgery does not meet their expectations or if they do not have adequate support for their transition. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as unresolved emotional issues, lack of support from loved ones, or ongoing discrimination and societal stigma.

Dr Javad Sajan a leading Seattle plastic surgeon for cosmetic & reconstructive procedures at Allure Esthetic says -

“In rare cases, yes, but I often recommend liposuction to my patients to prevent this. Though, with weight gain, age, and other factors, it is possible to see future breast growth.”


The surgery is not a magic solution for all transgender individuals. Even after surgery, it's important to have a support system, including therapy and counselling. Some individuals may find that they need additional therapy or counselling to help them process their feelings and adjust to their new bodies.


It's also important to remember that some individuals may have had unrealistic expectations of surgery, and may need time to adjust to the changes in their body. This is not a relapse but a process of adapting to the new changes.

If you're experiencing a resurgence of gender dysphoria after surgery, it's important to talk to your surgeon, therapist or counsellor and have a plan to address it.

Name of FTM Surgery &

Relapse Rate

Preventive Steps

Top Surgery

 0-2%

Monitor the chest for asymmetry, imbalances, and changes in breast tissue.

Bottom Surgery

0-4%

Monitor for any changes in the genital area and note any changes in sensation.

Facial Surgery

0-4%

Follow post-operative instructions for care of the area and monitor for any changes.

Here are some tips on how to get better and long-term results from different types of FTM (female-to-male) surgeries:

How to get better results from FTM surgery?

Guidelines

Name of FTM surgery

Tips on how to get better results

Top surgery

  • Choose a surgeon with extensive experience and a good track record performing FTM chest surgeries.

     
  • Make sure you understand the different techniques available and choose the one that best suits your goals and anatomy.

     
  • Follow your surgeon's pre and post operative instructions closely, including quitting smoking and avoiding any hormonal therapy or hormone blockers before the Surgery.

     
  • Be prepared for a significant recovery period, and take the time you need to heal properly.

     
  • Be patient. The healing process can take several months, and it may take time for the final results to be visible.

Bottom Surgery (genital surgery)

  • Research the different techniques and surgeons available, as the options and outcomes can vary widely.

     
  • Have realistic expectations and understand that the results may not be perfect.

     
  • Follow your surgeon's pre- and post-operative instructions closely.

     
  • Be prepared for a significant recovery period and take the time you need to heal properly.

     
  • Be patient. The healing process can take several months, and it may take time for the final results to be visible.
Facial Surgery
  • Choose a surgeon with experience in facial feminization surgery.

     
  • Research the different techniques and procedures available, and understand that not all may be suitable for you.

     
  • Follow your surgeon's pre- and post-operative instructions closely.

     
  • Be prepared for a recovery period and take the time you need to heal properly.

Don't forget, FTM surgery is not just about the physical changes but also about the emotional and psychological support.


There are certain don'ts that patients must keep in mind:

No smoking

  • Don't rush into Surgery without carefully considering the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes.
  • Don't choose a surgeon based solely on price or location.
  • Take your time with follow-up appointments and consider post-operative instructions.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco products FTM post op, as they can impede healing and lead to complications.


Each individual has a unique situation. Therefore, it's highly recommended to discuss with a qualified medical professional the best options for you. 

Additionally, it is crucial to have a support system, both emotionally and physically, as the recovery period can be challenging.

To have a smooth and a successful treatment and recovery journey,  

Call today and get free Consultation!


We help you connect to the best transgender surgery doctors & hospitals that ensure you have an amazing treatment and post-treatment experience and help you get the desired results! 


 


 



 

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Question and Answers

if I have top surgery without T can I develop pecs if I hit the gym a lot?

Male | 18

If you don't take testosterone or undergo top surgery, you can still build your pecs by lifting weights. Pecs, short for pectoral muscles, can grow with exercises like chest presses and push-ups, which target these muscles. Pace yourself, use the correct form, and be consistent with your workouts. Your pecs can still develop even without testosterone.

Answered on 29th July '24

Dr. Vinod Vij

Dr. Vinod Vij

I am a 32 years old male who has got into cross dressing some 8 years back, now my urge of being like this has grown, last two years I have been I’m eating dian35 prescribed by a doctor in Malaysia, but now I believe I shall be needing more strong dose since the transformation is already 2 years and can see few changes

Other | 32

It seems like you may be going through some changes about turning into the opposite sex. Understand that these changes are complicated and might need some medical interventions. You might require different amounts of hormones to help you through the process. Talk about what is bothering you and your symptoms with a doctor who can help you figure out the best way forward.

Answered on 18th July '24

Dr. Vinod Vij

Dr. Vinod Vij

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