Top surgery is surgery that removes or augments breast tissue and reshapes the chest to create a more masculine or feminine appearance for transgender and nonbinary people.

What is top surgery?

Top surgery is another name for chest masculinization or feminization. Using one of several surgical approaches, surgeons augment or remove breast tissue, and in some cases reshape and reposition the nipples for an affirming look.

Who may benefit from top surgery?

Transgender and nonbinary people may choose top surgery as part of their gender affirmation treatment. Gender affirmation surgery can address gender dysphoria, which occurs when gender identity does not correspond to sex assigned at birth.

Gender affirmation surgery can improve well-being in patients who:

Have ongoing and documented gender dysphoria.

Have the legal and mental ability to make responsible medical decisions for themselves.

Are successfully addressing other mental and physical health concerns.

While testosterone therapy is not required for chest masculinization surgery, some surgeons and insurance companies will request one year of estrogen therapy to maximize natural breast growth prior to implant placement.