Top Surgery in Sydney: Chest Masculinisation and Feminisation Procedures

Chest masculinisation and feminisation procedures

Chest masculinisation and feminisation options
Technique selection based on anatomy and goals
Performed under general anaesthesia in accredited facilities
Scarring is permanent; technique selection depends on anatomy and individual goals

Home » Top Surgery (Chest Surgery)

Overview

Top surgery is a broad term used to describe procedures that modify chest contour as part of gender affirmation care. Depending on individual goals and anatomy, top surgery may involve chest masculinisation (removal of breast tissue and skin) and/or chest feminisation (adding volume using implants and/or fat transfer). A consultation is required to assess suitability, discuss options, and explain scarring, risks, recovery, and expected variability in outcomes.

Before and After Images

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Before After

Procedure: Corset Abdominoplasty (360)

Recovery Timeline: 4 Months

Before After

Procedure: Breast Augmentation, 300 CC

Recovery Timeline: 2 Months

Implant Type: Motiva Ergo Demi

Before After

Procedure: Abdominoplasty, Breast Lift

Recovery Timeline: 3 Months

Before After

Procedure: Abdominoplasty, Breast Lift

Recovery Timeline: 3 Months

Before After

Procedure: Breast Augmentation

Recovery Timeline: 3 Months

Before After

Implant Size: 250cc to 400cc (Motiva)

Recovery Timeline: 12 Months

Procedure: Breast Augmenation

*It is important to note that individual results vary depending on factors such as anatomy, skin quality, surgical approach and healing response. The images shown are not intended to guarantee or predict the outcome of any procedure.

Take the Next Step by Booking a Consultation

About This Procedure

Top surgery is not a single operation. It includes different procedures depending on whether the goal is to create a flatter chest contour or to add chest volume.

Common terms used in consultation include: Chest masculinisation (FTM top surgery): commonly referred to clinically as mastectomy (with technique selection based on chest size, skin quality, and nipple position). Chest feminisation (MTF top surgery): commonly referred to clinically as breast augmentation (using implants and/or fat transfer in selected cases).

Your surgeon will explain the procedure options that may be suitable for you, including likely scar placement and expected limitations based on your anatomy.

Key Benefits

Top surgery encompasses chest masculinisation and feminisation procedures that may assist with aligning chest contour with gender identity. Outcomes vary and depend on anatomy, skin quality, technique selection, and individual healing. Scarring is permanent and sensation changes are common. Implants used in feminisation procedures are not lifetime devices.

Individualised treatment plan based on clinical assessment
Potential observable changes depending on individual response
Structured approach with follow-up and adjustment

Ideal Candidate

A suitable candidate is generally a healthy adult with realistic expectations about variability and the need for aftercare. A consultation is required to confirm suitability.

Is medically suitable for surgery and general anaesthesia.
Has realistic expectations about symmetry, sensation changes, and recovery.
Has realistic expectations about symmetry, sensation changes, and recovery.
Is able to follow aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments.
If using nicotine, is willing to cease well in advance as nicotine may impair healing and graft viability.

Techniques & Approaches

The specific approach is selected based on individual assessment and clinical goals. Your clinician will discuss the most appropriate options during your consultation.

Double incision mastectomy with nipple grafting (selected cases)

A horizontal incision is made along the lower border of the chest; breast tissue is removed and nipple grafts are repositioned. This technique may be recommended for larger chests

Periareolar / keyhole mastectomy (selected cases)

An incision is made around the areola; breast tissue is removed through this opening. This technique may be suitable for smaller chests with good skin elasticity

Breast implants (selected cases)

Silicone or saline implants are placed to create chest volume. Implant type, size, and placement are discussed during consultation. Implants are not considered lifetime devices

Autologous fat transfer (selected cases)

Fat is harvested from another area of the body and transferred to the chest. Results vary and multiple sessions may be required

Anesthesia

Top surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia in an appropriately accredited hospital facility. Anaesthetic planning and hospital requirements are confirmed after your clinical assessment and surgical plan.

What we will cover in consultation

Your medical practitioner will explain:

review of medical history, chest goals, and discussion of masculinisation or feminisation options.
clinical assessment of chest anatomy, skin quality, and nipple position to help determine suitable techniques.
explanation of surgical approach (such as double incision, periareolar, or keyhole for masculinisation; implant-based or fat transfer for feminisation).
discussion of expected scar placement, scar maturation over time, and how scarring varies between individuals.
detailed discussion of risks including sensation changes, asymmetry, wound healing, and implant-related considerations where applicable.

Your surgeon will explain recommended incision placement, expected scarring, and the trade-offs of each approach during consultation.

Possible Risks and Complications

All surgery carries risks, and outcomes vary. Your surgeon will discuss risks relevant to your procedure plan and health profile. Potential risks may include:

Potential risks and complications may include:

Bleeding, bruising, infection, delayed healing, Scarring concerns (including hypertrophic or thickened scars in some people), Adverse reaction to anaesthesia, Asymmetry or contour irregularities, Changes in sensation (temporary or permanent), Nipple graft loss or partial loss (risk increased with nicotine use and some health factors), Reduced or altered nipple sensation (common where grafting is performed), Fluid collection (seroma), wound separation, or revision surgery, Capsular contracture, implant malposition, implant rupture/leak over time, Need for future implant surgery (implants are not considered lifetime devices), Breast implant associated risks, which will be discussed during consent, Variable fat retention, asymmetry, need for repeat sessions, Lumps, firmness, oil cysts, or fat necrosis

Preparation typically includes:

Complete all pre-operative assessments and clearances
Cease smoking and nicotine use well in advance
Follow fasting instructions for general anaesthesia
Arrange post-operative care and support at home

Recovery Milestones

Week 1

Recovery varies depending on procedure type and technique

Week 2

Compression garments and drains may be required

Week 2 - 6

Activity restrictions are typically required for several weeks

Week 6 - 12

Swelling resolves gradually over weeks to months

3 - 12 Months

Follow-up appointments for monitoring and scar care

Pricing & Estimate

Costs vary significantly depending on the procedure, technique, hospital and anaesthetist fees. A detailed written quote is provided after consultation once a surgical plan is confirmed. Medicare and private health insurance arrangements vary and will be discussed with you.

Disclaimer

Prices vary based on individual assessment. A personalised quote will be provided during consultation.

Starting From

Available on consultation

Indicative pricing only

Final exact cost will be confirmed after consultation.

Why Choose Us

At COSMEX, we combine advanced surgical expertise with personalized care to deliver natural, confident results. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are always our priority.

Specialist Plastic Surgeons

Our surgeons hold Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Each procedure is performed by qualified specialists with extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. You are welcome to verify your surgeon's credentials via the AHPRA public register.

Accredited Surgical Facilities

All surgical procedures are performed in licensed, accredited hospitals in Sydney. Our facilities meet Australian standards for theatre safety, anaesthesia, infection control, and emergency care. Your safety is the foundation of every treatment plan.

Individualised Care

No two patients are the same. Every treatment plan at COSMEX is developed following a thorough one-on-one consultation where your anatomy, concerns, goals, and medical history are carefully assessed. You will receive a personalised recommendation — not a standardised package.

Structured Aftercare and Follow-Up

Your care continues well beyond the day of your procedure. COSMEX provides a structured aftercare program including scheduled follow-up appointments, access to your surgical team for questions during recovery, and long-term monitoring where clinically indicated.

Video FAQs

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Dr Sepher Lajevardi interview at the 2022 Plastic Surgery Congress