Best FTM Top Surgery Clinics in Seoul | Cost & Guide

Why is FTM Top Surgery Performed?

• Gender Affirmation
  FTM top surgery is a key procedure for transgender men who experience chest dysphoria—the discomfort or distress caused by the difference between their physical chest and their gender identity. Top surgery helps alleviate this distress by creating a chest that aligns with their gender identity, improving mental and emotional well-being.
• Improved Confidence
  One of the main reasons for pursuing FTM top surgery is to achieve a flat, masculine chest. This procedure can drastically improve self-esteem and body confidence, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable in their bodies, especially when wearing fitted clothing or swimwear.
• Relieving Physical Discomfort
  For some individuals, the physical discomfort of large breasts can be a significant concern. FTM top surgery can reduce or eliminate this discomfort, making daily activities more comfortable and improving overall quality of life.
• Final Step in Transition
  For many transgender men, top surgery represents a significant milestone in their gender transition. This procedure often marks the final step in aligning their physical appearance with their true gender identity.

Types of FTM Top Surgery

There are two main techniques used in FTM top surgery, depending on the amount of breast tissue and the desired outcome:

1. Double Incision Mastectomy

• Ideal for Larger Breasts: This method is typically recommended for individuals with larger amounts of breast tissue.
• Procedure: The surgeon makes two horizontal incisions across the chest, one along each breast. The breast tissue is removed, and the chest is reshaped to create a masculine contour. The nipple-areola complex is often resized and repositioned to fit the new chest appearance.
• Scarring: While the incisions do leave visible scarring, it is generally well-hidden along the natural crease of the chest.

2. Keyhole Mastectomy

• Ideal for Smaller Breasts: This method is ideal for individuals with smaller amounts of breast tissue and more elastic skin.
• Procedure: The surgeon makes a small incision around the perimeter of the areola and removes the breast tissue through this incision. This technique leaves minimal scarring and is less invasive than the double incision method.
• Scarring: The incision is small and typically well-hidden around the areola.

The choice of procedure will depend on factors such as the amount of breast tissue, skin elasticity, and the patient's aesthetic goals.

Benefits of FTM Top Surgery

• Masculine Chest Appearance: The primary benefit of top surgery is the creation of a more masculine or flat chest that aligns with a transgender man’s gender identity.
• Improved Mental Health: Many individuals report feeling significant improvements in mental health and body confidence after top surgery, with a reduction in gender dysphoria.
• Permanent Results: The results of top surgery are permanent, providing long-term satisfaction and a lasting improvement in physical appearance.
• Relief from Physical Discomfort: For those with larger breasts, top surgery can provide relief from physical discomfort, including back pain, chafing, or difficulty finding clothing that fits comfortably.
• Minimal Scarring: Although scarring is a natural part of surgery, the incisions used in top surgery are placed strategically to minimize visibility, and the scars typically fade over time.

What to Expect During the Procedure

FTM top surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure can take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the technique used. Here’s what you can expect during the surgery:

Key Steps of the FTM Top Surgery Procedure:

• Consultation & Planning
  During the consultation, the surgeon will assess your chest, discuss your goals, and determine which technique (double incision or keyhole) is best suited to your needs. The surgeon will also explain the risks, recovery process, and expected results.
• Incision Placement & Fat Removal
  Depending on the method chosen, the surgeon will make the appropriate incisions. For the double incision mastectomy, two incisions are made across the chest. For the keyhole mastectomy, a small incision is made around the areola. The breast tissue is carefully removed, and the chest is contoured to achieve the desired result.
• Nipple-Areola Complex Adjustment
  In most cases, the nipple and areola are repositioned and resized to fit the new, masculine chest appearance. In some cases, the nipple may be grafted from the original location.
• Closure & Dressing
  After the fat and tissue are removed and the chest reshaped, the incisions are closed with fine sutures. A compression garment is typically applied to reduce swelling and support the healing process.

Recovery & Aftercare

FTM top surgery requires careful attention during recovery, as the chest will need time to heal and adjust to its new shape. Here’s what you can expect:

• Recovery Time: Most patients can return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, with complete healing taking several months.
• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after top surgery and may persist for a few weeks. Full results become visible after the swelling goes down.
• Post-Surgery Care: You will be required to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help reduce swelling and support the chest. You should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous physical activities during recovery.
• Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor your healing and ensure that your chest is healing as expected. The surgeon will check for any complications, remove sutures, and ensure the best results.
• Final Results: Final results of top surgery will become visible within 3 to 6 months once swelling has fully resolved and the chest has healed.

Cost of FTM Top Surgery in Korea

The cost of FTM top surgery in Korea varies depending on the technique used, the surgeon's experience, and the clinic's location. On average, the cost ranges from:

• Double Incision Mastectomy: ₩4,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW (Approx. $3,200 – $6,400 USD)
• Keyhole Mastectomy: ₩3,000,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW (Approx. $2,400 – $4,800 USD)
• Consultation Fee: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000 KRW (Approx. $40 – $80 USD)
• Post-Surgery Care & Follow-up: Additional costs may apply depending on follow-up visits, compression garments, and medications.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified surgeon to receive an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and the extent of the surgery.



Schedule Your Consultation

If you're considering FTM top surgery in Seoul, our experienced surgeons are here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your goals, explore your options, and start your journey toward a more masculine chest appearance.

Transform Your Confidence

Experience personalized care and exceptional results with our board-certified plastic surgeons.