These days, there are many excellent surgical options available for patients who are transgender. Breast implants are typically a major component of the physical transition process, particularly for patients who desire a fuller breast contour. However, the results of breast augmentation can vary widely, so there are some important points to consider to ensure that your implants look as natural as possible.
Implants can be placed either over or under the chest wall muscle. For the most natural appearance, most surgeons prefer to place the implant under the muscle, which is known as sub-muscular placement. However, patients should keep in mind that sub-muscular placement can have a slightly longer recovery time, and can be a bit more painful.
The type of implant used can also impact your results. Currently, both saline and silicone implants are available, but silicone implants do tend to look and feel more natural. They are also an ideal option for transwomen, who tend to have a smaller amount of breast tissue.
Because this procedure differs somewhat for transwomen, choosing a competent surgeon who is knowledgeable in transgender breast implants is key to ensuring a natural result. At the International Center for Transgender Care, our board-certified surgeons have more than 20 years of experience treating transgender patients. Compared to ciswomen, transwomen often have a broader chest and shoulders, a larger pec muscle, and a slightly lower nipple line. A surgeon who specializes in working with transwomen will have the skill to accommodate these anatomical differences for a natural result.
Finally, appropriate compliance with your overall treatment regimen can help you to achieve the best cosmetic outcome. Ideally, the transwoman will have taken hormone therapy for at least 12 months before undergoing breast augmentation, which will allow for nipple growth and the development of some breast tissue. Following surgery, diligent breast massage and compression will allow the implant to drop into a natural position.
Contact us to schedule a consultation at (972) 543-2477. Our surgeons specialize in transgender breast implants, and can ensure that you achieve a beautiful, natural-looking result.