Breast Augmentation
For Transwomen
Many trans women choose to get breast augmentation as part of their transition. Generally, breast tissue develops with the hormonal transition, but sometimes patients want larger breasts and want to augment the shape as well. Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that can be used to enhance the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. This procedure has a number of important benefits for trans women. It can provide a greater sense of congruence between her inner and outer selves, enhance her confidence and self-esteem and help her wear the clothing she wants to and feel more comfortable doing so. For these reasons, breast augmentation is a vital step in the male-to-female transition. Visit Dr. Hazen if you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation for transwomen. You not only want the best possible surgeon - but also someone you can connect with and who has successfully worked with many transgender patients. That's why Dr. Hazen is the right choice.
Before and After Photos of Breast Augmentation for Transwomen
Breast Augmentation for Trans Women Procedure
Breast augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia or heavy sedation. During the breast augmentation procedure, which is also known as augmentation mammoplasty, implants are placed either over (sub-glandular placement) or under (sub-muscular placement) the pectoralis major muscle. Dr. Hazen generally uses an inframammary incision (in the breast fold) to preserve maximal sensation and places the implant in the sub-glandular position for the most natural appearance.
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Breast augmentation is a very common and safe procedure. Typically, the surgery takes about one to two hours to complete. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis using general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep during the procedure. Dissolvable sutures are placed during the surgery, and typically Dr. Hazen does not place drains for this procedure.
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Several types of implants are currently available including both saline and silicone options. While both saline and silicone implants can offer excellent results, silicone implants tend to look a bit more natural compared to saline implants. This type of implant can be a good option for trans women who tend to have less breast tissue. However, silicone implants do require a larger incision for placement, which means that any post-surgery scarring will also be more significant. Dr. Hazen works with you to weigh the pros and cons and choose the best implants for your needs.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation for Trans Women?
Candidates are healthy and non-smokers.
In order to obtain the best possible results from surgery, the transwoman will ideally have taken hormone therapy for at least 12 months before undergoing breast augmentation. Initiating hormone therapy will result in nipple growth and the development of some breast tissue, which means that the surgery is likely to be more successful with better cosmetic results.
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Patients need to have realistic expectations and they should be discussed with Dr. Hazen. It is very important for the patient to have proper expectations going into breast augmentation surgery. While your breast augmentation will result in fuller, more feminine breasts, the results may not be perfect. Augmented breasts tend to look and feel somewhat different than natural breasts. The breasts may be firmer, rounder, and slightly further apart. Additionally, patients should keep in mind that some scarring is inevitable with breast augmentation, as this procedure requires that a surgical incision be made. Dr. Hazen will develop a post-surgery scar management program with you to help you heal and minimize scarring.
Post Surgery Recovery
Many breast augmentation patients have questions about what they’ll experience during the recovery period. Fortunately, the recovery time tends to pass fairly quickly with this procedure. Most patients are able to return to work in about one week. During the first few days post-surgery, rest is extremely important. Use of the arms should also be limited during the first week, which means no driving, lifting, or reaching. The breasts will likely feel tender and swollen, but most patients report that their pain is mild to moderate. You’ll be sent home with a prescription for medication to address any pain issues. Breast massage is an important self-care technique that will improve your body’s ability to heal from the surgery—you’ll be taught this technique at your post-op appointment.
Why Choose Dr. Hazen
Dr. Hazen has a lot of experience with breast surgery and with transgender patients. She and her team will make you feel very comfortable and cared for, respected, and heard. You not only want the best possible plastic surgeon - but also someone you can connect with and who has successfully worked with many transgender patients. That's why Dr. Hazen is the right choice for you.
What to Expect From Your Consultation
After welcoming you, Dr. Alexes Hazen takes a thorough look at your medical history and conditions, including hospitalizations and medications taken. A physical exam is performed. Your goals and desires for surgery are fully explored, and Dr. Hazen gives a comprehensive explanation of the surgical procedures that are possible for you, including complications and risks. The recovery process is well described. Dr. Hazen offers to take pre-operative photos of you (saves a visit). Dr. Hazen and you may explore any issues that are blocking or interfering with the surgery actually happening, including anxieties around it. Then a plan is made with a timeline. If the surgery is not covered by insurance, estimated costs for surgery and anesthesia are presented to you.