Mastectomy
for trans men
Top Surgery

Mastectomy for trans men
Top Surgery

Mastectomy
FTM surgery to create a male chest

MADRID | ZURICH

Mastectomy for trans men is one of the most important procedures in the gender affirmation process. Internationally, it is also known as top surgery FTM (Female-to-Male) and consists of the removal of breast tissue and the reshaping of the chest to obtain a male chest contour.

This surgery creates a flat, masculine chest by removing glandular and fatty tissue, tightening the skin, and repositioning the areola-nipple complex. The goal is to achieve a harmonious chest silhouette that blends with the rest of the body.

For many trans men, this intervention represents a fundamental step in their transition, as it contributes to improving comfort in daily life and allows them to perform activities such as playing sports, swimming, or wearing certain clothes without the need for compression garments.

At Dr. Richard Fakin's clinic, mastectomy planning is personalized, combining advanced surgical techniques with body contouring procedures such as liposuction. The goal is to achieve a natural-looking male chest with discreet scarring and balanced proportions.

This intervention is part of the FTM thoracic masculinization procedures, also known internationally as gender-affirming top surgery.

  • DURATION 60 – 180 minutes
  • DISCHARGE FROM THE CLINIC The same day or the next day
  • BACK TO WORK 10 days
  • DURATION 60 – 180 minutes
  • DISCHARGE FROM THE CLINIC The same day or the next day
  • BACK TO WORK 10 days
  • SUITABLE FOR SOCIETY 7 days
  • ANESTHESIA General
  • FULL RECOVERY Between 4-6 weeks
  • SUITABLE FOR SOCIETY 7 days
  • ANESTHESIA General
  • FULL RECOVERY Between 4-6 weeks

Instructions

When might an FTM mastectomy be considered?

Mastectomy for trans men may be considered when a person wishes to modify the chest contour to achieve a masculine appearance.

Within the FTM transition process, this procedure allows for the removal of breast tissue and the reshaping of the chest to align with a male chest contour. Depending on the individual case, the surgery can help to:

  • elimination of glandular and fatty tissue
  • removal of the inframammary fold
  • liposuction to define the chest contour
  • reduction in areola size
  • repositioning of the areola-nipple complex in a more lateral position

In certain cases, when breast volume is high or there is excess skin, a free nipple graft may be necessary. The procedure is planned after an individualized medical evaluation, which analyzes breast volume, skin elasticity, and chest anatomy.

Surgical techniques

Procedures used in FTM mastectomy

Thoracic masculinization surgery includes the removal of glandular and fatty tissue, skin tightening, and reshaping of the areola-nipple complex. During the procedure, various techniques may be performed to improve the chest contour:

  • removal of breast tissue and fatty tissue
  • inframammary fold suppression
  • liposuction to define the chest contour
  • reduction in areola size
  • repositioning the nipple in a more lateral and masculine position

In certain cases, when breast volume is greater or there is a significant excess of skin, it may be necessary to perform a free nipple graft. Each technique is selected based on the anatomy of each patient and the desired result.

Scars

Location of mastectomy scars in trans men

Mastectomy scars depend primarily on the initial breast volume and the surgical technique used. The most common techniques include:

Periareolar

The incision is made around the areola and is concealed in the transition between the skin and the pigmented area. It is usually used in cases with small or moderate breast tissue.

Horizontal

Horizontal incisions are made in the lower part of the breast. This technique allows for the removal of a greater amount of tissue and skin and is used in cases with larger breast volume.

Free nipple graft

In situations of high breast volume, the nipple can be repositioned using a free graft to place it in the appropriate anatomical position within the new thoracic contour.

At Dr. Richard Fakin's clinic, specific protocols are applied to improve healing and minimize the visibility of scars.

Recovery and postoperative care

Recovery after FTM mastectomy

Following the procedure, it is recommended to wear a compression vest for approximately six weeks. This helps to shape the chest contour and promotes skin retraction during the healing process.

During the first few days, mild swelling or discomfort may occur, which gradually decreases. Most patients can resume daily activities in about a week, while more strenuous physical activity is usually resumed gradually after several weeks.

Medical monitoring allows control of the healing process and ensures proper adaptation of the tissues to the new thoracic contour.

Testimonials

Matt

Mastectomy:
Frequently Asked Questions

FTM top surgery is a surgery that allows the removal of breast tissue and reshaping of the chest to create a masculine appearance.

It depends on the technique used. Scars can be located around the areola or on the lower part of the breast.

Initial recovery usually lasts around one or two weeks, although full recovery can take several weeks.

Yes. The compression vest is used for several weeks to promote tissue adaptation and improve chest contour.

In some cases, it is possible to perform secondary procedures to improve symmetry or chest contour.

Intense physical activities are usually resumed gradually after several weeks, always following medical recommendations.

Dr. Richard Fakin
international elite surgeon

Dr. Richard Fakin is Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon with solid experience in gender affirmation procedures. He specializes in breast surgery, facial surgery, and advanced body procedures. His practice combines technical precision, aesthetic sensitivity, and a deeply personalized approach to each procedure

At his clinics in Madrid and Zurich, Dr. Fakin leads a highly professional and committed team of specialists who share the same philosophy: to offer rigorous medical care, but friendly in its human approach. Each patient receives individualized support, from the first consultation to post-operative follow-up.

As a boutique plastic surgery clinic, the approach is neither massive nor standardized. The team dedicates the necessary time to understand expectations, analyze anatomy, and design a surgical plan precisely tailored to each case. This structure allows us to maintain a high level of quality, confidentiality, and attention to detail in every procedure. Dr. Fakin employs refined surgical techniques that prioritize safety, natural-looking results, and optimized recovery. Meticulous planning and the use of advanced technology allow us to offer harmonious results that reflect each individual's unique identity.

Beyond the technique, Dr. Fakin and his team's commitment is reflected in transparent, honest, and personalized care, where Each patient is treated with dedication and professionalism in all phases of the process.

Our facilities

Madrid

  • C. de Velázquez, 109, 28006 Madrid, Spain
  • madrid@drrichardfakin.com
  • +34 679 85 86 39
  • C. de Velázquez, 109, 28006 Madrid, Spain
  • madrid@drrichardfakin.com
  • +34 679 85 86 39

Zurich

  • Giesshübelstrasse 45, 8045 Zurich
  • zurich@drrichardfakin.com
  • +41 78 206 44 88
  • Giesshübelstrasse 45, 8045 Zurich
  • zurich@drrichardfakin.com
  • +41 78 206 44 88

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