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  3. Inverted T Top Surgery: Know Benefits, Risks, and Procedure

Inverted T Top Surgery: Know Benefits, Risks, and Procedure

Experience the transformative inverted T top surgery. Explore skilled surgeons and supportive care for a safe and affirming chest masculinization procedure tailored to your needs.

  • Transgender Surgery
By Shubhanshi Jain 9th May '23 30th Mar '24
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Overview

Inverted T top surgery or t anchor top surgery is a type of chest reconstruction surgery that is  a part of gender-affirming surgery for transgender and non-binary individuals.

It is also known as "T-anchor" or "Wise pattern" top surgery. This process involves an incision which looks like an upside down letter - T.  The incision is a horizontal line connected to the areola. This creates a T-shaped or anchor-shaped incision pattern.

Looking for a more natural-looking chest? Consider Inverted T top surgery!

inverted t top surgery before/after

The surgeon then removes excess breast tissue and reshapes the remaining tissue. And create a more masculine chest contour. The nipples are also resized and repositioned to create a natural-looking appearance.

Inverted T top surgery is recommended for those who have larger breasts or those who have significant amounts of excess skin in the chest area. 

By the National Centre for Transgender Equality conducted in 2019 it is found that 33% of transgender respondents reported having had gender-affirming surgery. And with (55% of all surgeries reported), top surgery being the most common procedure.

Benefits/Risks of inverted t top surgerybenefits and risks

Is Inverted T top surgery right for you? Here are the risks and benefits associated with it

Benefits of Inverted T Top Surgery

 

Risks of Inverted T Top Surgery


 

  • More natural-looking chest appearance: Inverted T top surgery can create a more natural-looking chest.


 

  • Scarring: Although the scarring is less visible than other top surgery techniques, there is still some scarring associated with inverted T top surgery.
  • Reduced risk of nipple loss: This technique preserves the blood supply to the nipple and areola by keeping them attached to some underlying breast tissue.


 

  • Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. Patients must follow post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce this risk.


 

  • Improved mental health: Gender-affirming surgeries specially top surgery have been shown to have positive effects on mental health. Also including reducing symptoms of gender dysphoria and improving quality of life.


 

  • Bleeding and hematoma formation: There is a risk of bleeding and hematoma formation after surgery. This risk can be reduced by avoiding certain medications and supplements before surgery and following post-operative instructions .


 

  • Increased confidence: Many individuals who undergo inverted T top surgery report feeling more confident and comfortable in their bodies.



 

  • Asymmetry: In some cases, there may be asymmetry between the two sides of the chest after surgery.


 

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

Eligibility for T- anchor Surgeryeligibility

Want to have a more masculine appearance?

Want to have a T-top surgery? 

But wondering whether you are eligible for it?

Let’s check out!

The eligibility criteria of T top surgery or anchor top surgery depends on patient to patient. 

But, here are some general guidelines:

Eligibility CriteriaDetails

Age

age

  • Most surgeons prefer patients to be at least 18 years old before undergoing chest reconstruction surgery.


 

Hormone therapy

  • Depending on the surgeon, individuals may require to undergo hormone therapy for a certain period before undergoing surgery. 
  • This is because hormone therapy can reduce breast tissue and make chest surgery easier.

Body mass index (BMI)

bmi

  • Individuals with a BMI of over 30 may be asked to lose weight before surgery. 
  • A high BMI can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.


 

Good overall health

good health

  • It is important for individuals to be in good overall health before undergoing surgery, as underlying health conditions can increase the risk of complications.


 

Diagnosis of gender dysphoria:

gender dysphoria



 

  • Before undergoing chest reconstruction surgery, most surgeons want patients to be diagnosed with gender dysphoria and to have had therapy.


 

Realistic expectations:

expectations

  • It is important for individuals to have realistic expectations about the outcome of surgery and to understand that the final results may take time to become clear.


 

It is important to discuss the eligibility criteria with a qualified surgeon to determine if the procedure is right for you.

How to prepare for inverted T-top surgery?

consultation

Going to have T-top surgery? Keep this in mind.  

Preparing for inverted T top surgery involves several steps that are important to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. 

Here are some guidelines to follow:

  • Consult with a qualified surgeon: Before undergoing any surgical procedure, it is important to consult with a qualified surgeon. They can assess your eligibility, explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have.
  • Follow pre-operative instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with pre-operative instructions that you should follow. This may include stopping certain medications or supplements, avoiding smoking, and eating a healthy diet.
  • Arrange for post-operative care: You will need help to go home and for further activities. This may include support from your family and friends. They provide you with care for the first few days after the procedure.
  • Prepare your home: Before the surgery, you should prepare your home for your recovery. This may include setting up a comfortable recovery area with pillows and blankets, food and supplies, and arranging for any necessary medical equipment.
  • Manage expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations for your recovery and the results of the surgery. Talk to your surgeon about what you can expect during recovery, and be patient as your body heals.

By following these guidelines and working closely with your surgeon, you can prepare for inverted T top surgery and ensure the best possible outcome.

Take charge of your health and your lifeContact us today!

How does inverted top surgery work? procedure of inverted t top surgery

Inverted T top surgery is a surgical procedure that is designed to remove excess breast tissue and create a more masculine chest contour. 

Here is a general outline of how the procedure works:

What happens during Inverted T top surgery? Want to know the procedure,

Here it is…

AnaesthesiaThe patient is  given general anaesthesia so that they are unconscious and do not feel any pain during the procedure.
IncisionsThe surgeon makes incisions in the skin to remove excess breast tissue and create a more masculine chest contour. The incisions  made in the shape of an inverted T.  A horizontal incision made along the bottom of the chest and vertical incisions made from the horizontal incision to the nipple.
Nipple and areola repositioning

The surgeon repositions the nipple and areola to a more masculine position on the chest. This is usually done while preserving blood supply to the nipple and areola to reduce the risk of complications.


 

Skin tightening

The surgeon tightens the skin to create a flatter, more masculine chest appearance.


 

Closing incisions

The surgeon closes the incisions with sutures or surgical glue.


 

Post-operative careThe patient is monitored in a recovery room and given pain medication as needed. The patient will need to stay in the hospital for at least one night for observation.
Follow-up care

The patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to check healing. Discuss any concerns or complications.


 

Duration of procedure

Inverted T top surgery takes between 3 to 5 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Pain experienced

Patients may experience pain and discomfort after surgery. Pain medication is provided to manage pain.

Hospital stay: 

Patients are usually required to stay in the hospital for at least one night after surgery for observation and monitoring.

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

It is important to note that the specific details of the procedure may vary depending on the surgeon and the individual's unique circumstances. It is important to discuss the procedure with a qualified surgeon to understand the specific steps involved and what to expect during and after surgery.

Done with the procedure and wondering what next?

Here are the details!

What to expect after inverted T-top surgery? 

recovery

Inverted T top surgery, also known as double incision mastectomy with nipple grafts. A procedure performed on transgender men and nonbinary people who wish to remove breast tissue to create a more masculine chest. Recovery from this surgery takes several weeks, with some possible side effects and guidelines to follow after operation.

After surgery, patients can expect to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the chest area. Pain medication is prescribed to manage the discomfort. The chest is  wrapped in bandages or a compression garment to reduce swelling and promote healing. It is important to avoid any strenuous activities, including lifting heavy objects and exercise, for some weeks. Patients are supposed to put some restrictions on their daily activities like driving and showering for the first few days. These steps will help patients for faster recovery.

risk

Possible side effects of the surgery can be bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia.  which can be managed with proper care and monitoring by the surgeon and medical team. Poor wound healing, fluid build-up beneath the skin, and solid swelling of clotted blood are other uncommon possible complications. Patients should follow their surgeon's guidelines to reduce the risks of these complications.

no smoking and drinking

Post-operative guidelines may include avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption. Taking prescribed medications as directed, following a healthy diet, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon to watch the healing process. Patients are also advised to wear a compression garment for several weeks after surgery to help reduce swelling and promote healing. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help regain strength and flexibility in the chest muscles.

Inverted T-top Surgery Results

Want to know how long the results of Inverted T top surgery last? Discover the improvements you can expect to see and how permanent they are.

Here are the results you've been looking for.

inverted t top surgery results

After inverted T top surgery, patients experience an improvement in the appearance of their chest. The surgery can create a more masculine chest contour, with a flatter appearance. Also to the physical changes, patients often report feeling more comfortable and confident in their bodies.

The results of the top surgery inverted t  are visible immediately after the procedure.  Although the final result may take a few weeks to fully develop as the swelling subsides and the tissues settle. Patients may also experience some changes in sensation, including numbness or hypersensitivity.

The results of inverted T top surgery are considered to be long-lasting. Almost all the cases, they are permanent. Yet, some changes may occur over time due to ageing, weight fluctuations, or hormonal changes. It is important for patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid over weight gain or loss to help ensure the long last results.

Curious about the success rates of Inverted T top surgery? Find out what studies have shown about the effectiveness of this procedure.

Success Rates of inverted T-top surgery

success rates of inverted t top surgery

T-Top surgery has positive effects on mental health and overall quality of life for transgender individuals. The procedure has a high satisfaction rate among patients. According to a study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 94% of patients reported being satisfied with the results of their breast reduction surgery. 

Like any surgical procedure, the success of inverted T top surgery depends on a variety of factors. These include skill and experience of the surgeon, the patient's health and individual anatomy for the procedure. It is important for patients to research and choose a qualified and experienced surgeon. Patients should have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure.

Relapse rate of inverted t top surgery

Worried about the possibility of relapse?

Relax!

relapse rate of inverted t top surgery

There is no specific relapse rate associated with inverted T top surgery. Once the breast tissue is removed and the chest  is masculinized, the results are considered to be long-lasting and in most cases, permanent.

But, it is important to note that the body can undergo changes over time due to aging, weight fluctuations, or hormonal changes. Significant weight gain or loss after the surgery can affect the chest contour and may need revision surgery.

It is also possible for complications such as poor wound healing or fluid build-up to occur after surgery. It may need more treatment or revision surgery. It is important for patients to follow their surgeon's post-operative care instructions. Scheduled follow-up appointments are important to watch their progress and address any issues that may arise.

Wondering whether any other treatments can be used along with the procedure?

Scroll down to learn more!

Other treatments/procedures used along with inverted t top surgery

Inverted T top surgery is often performed as a standalone procedure for transmasculine individuals seeking to masculinize their chest. But, in some cases, more procedures or treatments may be recommended to achieve the desired results.

liposuction

For example, some patients may have excess skin or fat in the chest area that cannot be addressed by surgery alone. In these cases, liposuction or skin excision may be performed to remove the excess tissue and improve the contour of the chest.

Also, some patients may opt for nipple or areola grafting to create a more natural-looking appearance. This involves taking skin and tissue from other parts of the body and grafting it onto the chest to create the appearance of a nipple and areola.

Inverted t top surgery cost,does insurance cover?cost

The most important thing before taking any step is to know the expense. 

Scroll down to know about the cost.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of top surgery in the United States is around $6,000-$10,000. However, the cost can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's experience and geographical location.

It is important to note that insurance coverage for inverted T top surgery varies depending on the insurance plan and the individual's circumstances. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of the surgery if it is deemed medically necessary and meets certain criteria. Yet, other plans may have exclusions or limitations on coverage for gender-affirming surgeries.

Patients who are going to have these surgeries should contact their insurance provider to check eligibility and insurance coverage. They may also need to provide documentation such as a letter from a mental health professional to support the medical necessity of the surgery. It is also important to discuss financing options and payment plans with the surgeon or surgical facility.

Confused between t-anchor and double incision technique and wondering which is the right for you? 

We have discussed both the options below, thus helping you evaluate your choices and helping you make an informed and correct decision!

T-Anchor vs. Double Incision Techniques

t anchor vs double incision

Now Say Goodbye to Double-Incision Scars with Inverted T Top Surgery.

Technique

Incision

Suitable for Breast Size

Scarring

Nipple Grafting

T-Anchor

Inverted-T

Small to Medium

Less visible

Rarely required


 

Double Incision

Two horizontal incisions

Medium to Large

More visible

Often required


 

Both techniques involve removing breast tissue and skin to create a more masculine-looking chest. The T-Anchor technique is  used for patients with smaller breasts and involves making an inverted-T-shaped incision. While the Double Incision technique is used for patients with larger breasts and involves making two horizontal incisions.

The T-Anchor technique results in less visible scarring, while the Double Incision technique results in more visible scarring. But, the amount of scarring can vary depending on the patient's individual healing process.

Nipple grafting may also be required for both techniques, but it is more common with the Double Incision technique. This is because the Double Incision technique involves removing more breast tissue. And it results in a loss of blood supply to the nipples. Nipple grafting involves removing the nipples and reattaching them to the chest in a more masculine position.

So, what is your choice of technique?

Call us to book your appointment today

The choice of technique will depend on the patient's individual anatomy and goals. and should be discussed with a qualified surgeon experienced in gender-affirming surgery.

Have some more questions related to inverted t-top surgery?  

Then do not miss reading the below FAQs.

You might get an answer to your question!

FAQs

faqs
 

  • What is the cost of T-top surgery or anchor surgery?

The cost of T-top surgery or anchor surgery is around $6,000-$10,000. However it may vary on different locations and by different surgeons.

  • What is the inverted T incision for breast reduction?

The inverted T incision is a surgical technique used for breast reduction. In this an incision is made around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the crease to create a T-shaped incision pattern. This technique allows for the removal of a significant amount of breast tissue and excess skin.

  • What is the inverted T or anchor? 

The inverted T or anchor technique is a type of breast reduction surgery. This involves making an upside down T shaped incision, allowing for the removal of excess tissue and skin.

  • What is T and top surgery? 

T-top surgery is another term for inverted T top surgery, which is a type of chest masculinization surgery performed on transgender men or non-binary individuals who desire a more masculine chest appearance.

  • What is an inverted T procedure?

The inverted T procedure, also known as the anchor incision technique, is a type of breast reduction surgery. This technique allows for the removal of excess tissue and skin to gain masculine appearance.

  • What is the difference between double incision and inverted T?

In double incision, two horizontal incisions are made across the chest. In inverted T, the incision pattern resembles an inverted T or anchor shape, allowing for the removal of excess tissue and skin.

  • Is inverted t top surgery safe?

Inverted T top surgery, also known as an anchor or Wise pattern mastectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of breast tissue to create a more masculine-looking chest for transgender men or non-binary individuals. As with any surgery, there are risks and potential complications associated with the procedure.

However, when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon in a proper medical facility, inverted T top surgery is generally considered safe.

safe

  • Is inverted t top surgery reversible?

Inverted T top surgery is a permanent procedure that involves the removal of breast tissue to create a more masculine-looking chest for transgender men or non-binary individuals. While there are some revision surgeries available to address issues such as scarring or contour irregularities, it is not considered reversible.


 

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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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