Transgender breast implants can be used as a part of gender reassignment surgery in the feminization process. Generally, transgender breast implants are performed prior to the genital surgery.
In the surgical sense,breast implants for males do not differ from the breast implants that a woman receives. The materials used for transgender breast implants are identical, as are the options for incisions, and patients can choose to have their transgender breast implants placed over or under the muscle tissue in their chest. The risk of side effects for transgender breast implants is the same as well, with possibility for infections or capsular contraction. Procedure, risks, and other medical related topics are best discussed with the surgeon during your pre-op exam.
 About Breast Implant Procedure
Breast augmentation for transgender women will enlarge small or underdeveloped breasts, reshape breast shape and fullness to size and shape that offers an ideal female look while also improving self-esteem and personal satisfaction.
"Breasts are the iconic representation of womanhood and often the first step for feminization for transgender patients."
Breast Implant Surgery Procedures
The method of inserting and positioning your implant depend on individual anatomy. We can provide a free online consultation if you register and upload photos, however a finial conclusion will be made when you meet with the transgender plastic surgeon in your face-to-face consultation.
After your consultation, pre-op exam, and medical check-up, an anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia to you, placing you in a deep and relaxing sleep.
The incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. Every attempt will be made to assure that the resulting of scars will be almost invisible.
The incision is made with a special instrument designed to create a space for the implant. The extent of the incision must be smooth and appropriate for the size of the implant. After surgery, Stitches are used to close the incisions, which may also be taped for greater support. A gauze bandage will be applied over your breasts for two days after surgery to speed up healing.
Types of Breast Implants
All breast implants utilize a silicone shell but contain different kinds of filler, silicone gel or saline. The outer silicone shell may be smooth shiny and polished, or a slightly rough texture. Breasts augmented with the textured implants are less likely to develop contracting capsules than those with the smooth implants.
Placement of Breast Implants
There are two techniques for placing implants.
- The implants are placed under the breast tissue and over the chest muscle.
The surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath your chest wall muscle (the pectoral muscle). The implants are then centered beneath your nipples.
- The implants are placed under the chest muscle and breast tissue.
In some cases need to put the implants behind your chest muscle may reduce the potential for capsular contracture. This placement may also interfere less with breast examination by mammogram than if the implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue. Placement behind the muscle however, may be painful for a few days after surgery than placement directly under the breast tissue.
These two options should be thoroughly discussed between the patient and the surgeon.
Plastic Surgeon Assessment for Size and Placement of Implant
The plastic surgeons goal is to augment your breasts to a size that is proportional to your physique and maintain a natural feminine look.
The size and placement of the implant we choose will depend on many factors, such as your original cup size, your desired cup size, and your physique including chest muscle.
If you have only a small amount of breast tissue and want to enhance the tissue much as possible, it is recommended that a large implant is placed below the muscle in order to prevent the feeling or appearance of the implant. There is also less chance of capsular contracture.
If you have large chest muscles as a result of exercising, the implant should be placed above the muscles in order to allow for comfortable movement and a natural look.
For patients with mild to moderate breast sagging, larger implants placed over the muscle is recommended.
Plastic Surgeon Assessment for Size and Placement of Implant
Breast augmentation increases breast size and may also balance your body proportions. You will be able to wear clothes that are designed for the female body better, and you feel more confident and comfortable.
Duration of Breast Implant Procedure
The breast implant time to perform the procedure takes the plastic surgeon approximately one to two hours.
After Care for Transgender Breast Implants
All dressings and bandages are removed on the third day following the breast implant operation. Afterwards, you will be free to bath as usual.
For at least three to five days upon surgery, try to keep arm extension to a minimum. After removing the gauze dressing, you may be required to wear a support bra to help your breasts form and maintain a pleasing and balanced shape. This is included in the price of your surgery. You will probably be able to resume exercise and normal physical activities within a month or two when soreness has subsided.
The plastic surgeon will instruct you to massage your breast gently in and upward, downward, and inward motion in an effort to decrease the chances of capsule contracture. Overly aggressive manipulation of the implant or strong squeezing can possibly cause an inflammation, thus producing an adverse effect on the capsules.
During the first month following surgery, you should exercise your implants three to four times for fifteen to twenty minutes every day. After sufficient time and the breast contour is satisfactory, you will need to exercise only once or twice daily.
Recovery time for Breast Implants
You should plan on staying in Bangkok for 7 days after your surgery. However, if you are combining multiple procedures, we will be able to recommend this in our free consultation and price quote. Generally, patients are able to comfortable fly back 5 - 7 days after their breast implant surgery.
Hospital Admission for Breast Implants
If you are only performing breast implants and no feminization surgery, you will be admitted to the hospital for one night in a executive VIP suite, which is provided to all of our international patients.
Preparation For Transgender Breast Implants
Some transgender women decide to purchase and bring their own post-op support bra. This sometimes allows for a higher quality, more comfortable, and prettier bra to be worn after surgery.
You will need to register on our site and inform us of any allergies, medication you are currently taking (prescription and non-prescription medicine) and your medical history (hospitalization and illnesses).
Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, etc), vitamin E or any other medication that may have an anti-coagulant effect on your blood for 2 weeks prior to your surgery date. This may have a slight effect on the speed of your recovery as good blood flow is essential to healing quickly.
If you are a smoker, now is a good time to think about quitting. Quitting is not an easy task, but will result not only for a healthier lifestyle, but also improve the rate of your recovery. However, for most this is not an option, so it is requested you refrain from smoking 3 days before and 3 days after surgery.
You should plan on being in Thailand for 1 week. We can assist with booking your plan and hotel reservation, but you should ensure you do not require a visa to visit Thailand. Most citizens from foreign countries you will not require a visa.
For patients booking a complete medical tour, we will arrange to pick you up at the airport and transport you to your hotel. During the registration process you will be able to submit your flight itinerary.
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