Introduction

Enhancement of the breasts to achieve feminine breasts is an important component of the physical transition from the male to the female gender. The goals of this surgery are to feminize the appearance of the chest, to increase breast volume, to improve one’s appearance in clothes, and to enhance comfort and improve self-esteem.

What To Expect

Breast augmentation is usually performed with implants, which can be either silicone- or saline-filled. These implants may be placed either under or over the pectoralis muscle (submuscular vs. subglandular). The augmentation can be performed through incisions, either under the breast crease or along the outside of the areola. The surgery is usually performed as an outpatient, meaning you will go home the same day as your surgery and recover at home. Some people may require an overnight stay for observation. Dr. Shore will see you the next day in her office, and after that at one and two weeks, six weeks and then again three months after your surgery. You are typically given pain medication to take for the first week after surgery. Activity afterwards will be restricted, and gradually increased as you heal from surgery. Patients will need to wear a surgical bra for three weeks after surgery, to provide mild compression and reduce swelling. Most women can return to work within two weeks after surgery.

Is Breast Augmentation for Gender Affirmation covered by insurance?

This procedure is often covered by insurance companies. In May 2014, Medicare approved the coverage of chest contouring procedures to gender affirmation, provided certain criteria are met, and many private insurance companies also approved such procedures for coverage. Prior to scheduling surgery, we will request pre-authorization from your insurance company, to determine whether they will cover the cost of the procedure, as per your individual health insurance contract terms.