Become the person you've always wanted to be with gender affirmation surgery led by Mark D. Epstein, MD, FACS. Whether you're interested in a gender-affirming mastectomy, chest masculinization, or top surgery, the procedures Dr. Mark D. Epstein will provide can have a positive impact on your life.
Proudly serving patients in Hauppauge and Long Island, NY, Dr. Epstein is dual board-certified, with over 20 years of experience providing surgical and aesthetic wellness procedures. His high-end surgical suite for gender affirmation surgery and other procedures features state-of-the-art equipment. Post-op visits are also scheduled here to ensure you're healing from your procedure and are happy with your progress.
What is Top Surgery?
Top surgery, also known as chest masculinization or chest feminization surgery, is a gender-affirming procedure targeting the chest region to align an individual's physical appearance with their gender identity. This surgery is essential for both transgender men (female to male) and transgender women (male to female), allowing them to achieve a chest appearance that matches their gender identity.
Top Surgery for Female to Male (FTM)
For transgender men, top surgery, also known as chest masculinization, involves removing breast tissue to achieve a flatter, more traditionally masculine chest appearance. The procedure does not create a hollow or scooped-out appearance. Instead, it contours the chest to ensure a natural and aesthetically pleasing masculine look.
Top Surgery for Male to Female (MTF)
For transgender women, top surgery is referred to as chest feminization. In this procedure, breast implants are added to enhance the chest, giving it a more feminine appearance. The specifics of the surgery, including the size, shape, and type of breast implants, are tailored to the patient's body shape and aesthetic goals. Dr. Epstein works to achieve a natural, feminine contour that aligns with the patient's gender identity.
Top surgery is a vital component of gender-affirming care, providing transgender individuals with a chest appearance that matches their gender identity, thereby improving their self-esteem, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Why Is Gender-Affirming Top Surgery Performed?
Gender-affirming top surgery helps transgender and non-binary individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity, reducing gender dysphoria and improving mental health.
This surgery boosts self-esteem, body confidence, and comfort in social and intimate settings. It eliminates the need for binding, enhances physical freedom, and reduces discomfort. Additionally, it fosters societal acceptance and recognition of diverse gender expressions, enabling individuals to live authentically and confidently.
FAQ
Do You Have To Have Gender Dysphoria To Get Top Surgery?
While the requirements for top surgery do vary from state to state, most places require gender dysphoria to be documented by a psychologist. All patients need to want top surgery for themselves because they want to have it.
Am I a Good Candidate For Top-Surgery?
If you are a transgender or non-binary individual interested in top-only surgery, you may be an ideal candidate for top surgery. Dr. Epstein will meet you in private consultation to discuss your aesthetic goals. He will determine if you meet the criteria for top-only surgery and customize a surgical plan based on your aesthetic goals and overall health.
What Is the Recovery Process for Top Surgery?
Every patient recovers differently. However, the recovery period for most top-only surgeries is several weeks. During this time, you will wear a compression garment around your chest. Physical activity will also be limited until Dr. Epstein clears you. Immediately after the surgery and during your recovery period, you may experience tenderness in your chest, swelling, and possible changes in nipple sensation. Dr. Epstein will advise you on post-op care, and follow-up appointments will be scheduled to assess healing.
Are Regrets Common After Receiving Gender-Affirming Surgery?
With about one percent of gender-affirming surgery recipients having regrets about their decision, you can rest assured that the rate remains low. The study results only apply to gender-affirming mastectomies. Most people who receive transgender surgery are pleased with their decision long-term.
What Are the Requirements for Transgender Surgery?
Before you can receive top surgery or another gender-affirming procedure, you must first meet requirements like passing a mental health evaluation.
You might need to have undergone hormone therapy for a specific period and have a medical record that dates back at least a year proving gender incongruence.
What Are the Complications of Gender-Affirming Surgery?
Like any medical procedure, complications may arise after gender affirmation surgery. You might notice redness and irritation around incisions, skin infections, and bleeding.
Why Choose Dr. Epstein For Top Surgery?
Dr. Epstein is a top choice for gender-affirming surgery due to his extensive experience and exceptional qualifications. With over 25 years of performing cosmetic procedures, he brings a wealth of expertise to his practice. His advanced training includes fellowships in Reconstructive Microsurgery, Hand Surgery, and Microsurgery at renowned institutions like Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan and Harvard's Brigham and Women's/Children's Hospital. This diverse and rigorous training equips him with cutting-edge skills essential for successful surgeries.
Dr. Epstein holds a Certificate of Added Qualification in Surgery of the Hand and is certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of prestigious professional societies, he combines scientific precision with an artistic approach to ensure patients look and feel their best. His commitment to excellence and personalized care, along with the expertise of Dr. Levy and Dr. Slepian, makes Dr. Epstein an outstanding choice for anyone seeking top surgery.
Schedule a Consultation
At the office of Dr. Mark D. Epstein, we proudly offer top gender-affirming surgery for both transgender and non-binary patients. If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact our Happuppauge office at 631.689.1100 or fill out an online contact form.
