Non-flat Top Surgery - Lakeview Plastic Surgery

3000 N. Halsted St., Suite 709, Chicago, Illinois 60657

NON-FLAT TOP SURGERY

Radical Breast Reduction
Non-Binary Top Surgery

Sometimes the goal of top surgery is not to masculinize the chest. Many folks desire a significantly smaller chest without going completely flat.

I think of chest reduction as a spectrum, with cis-feminine breast reduction at one end and masculinizing top surgery at the other. Non-flat top surgery falls somewhere in the middle, and each surgery design takes into account:

• Volume
• Degree of Ptosis (tissue sag)
• Nipple Size, Shape, Position
• Scar Position and Shape
• Lateral Chest Fullness

What matters to each person will vary, so determining the final aesthetic comes from discussions with Dr. Shore, including reviews of photographs and drawings, to guide you through the decision-making process.

SCAR SHAPE

The inverted-T (Wise Pattern) scar is classically used in breast reductions, to provide a teardrop shape to the new breast. Non-flat top surgery may utilize either the inverted-T or double incision scars, depending on the desired chest fullness and shape.

Both surgeries have similar recovery timelines.

RECOVERY

Six weeks is the time to full recovery after surgery (provided all healing and recovery goes as expected). Drains usually are removed at one week, the postoperative compression vest is removed at two weeks, scar care is started at two weeks, and activity is gradually resumed between two and six weeks.

Surgery is done as an outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day. You will need someone to drive you home (or Uber home with you) and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

You’re mostly independent from day one. While there are some arm restrictions – pretend you are a T-Rex/sloth hybrid – you will be able to walk right after surgery and perform low-key activities right away. Walking is encouraged and very helpful for recovery. While it’s hard to put an active life on pause, the key is to fill your days with fulfilling things that require less intense activity.

Most people have very little pain after surgery. Dr. Shore uses local anesthetics and blocks during the procedure (like when you get a cavity filled at the dentist) to lessen discomfort after surgery. Icing after surgery also helps.

TRAVELING TO CHICAGO FOR SURGERY

While traveling for surgery can seem daunting, it is very safe and do-able. People come to Dr. Shore from around the United States and world for surgery, and we can help you prepare for and plan your stay. When traveling from within driving distance, we recommend staying in Chicago for the first 24-48 hours for your first postoperative visit. If traveling from further away (such as by plane), we recommend staying in Chicago or nearby for at least the first two weeks after surgery.

PREPARING FOR SURGERY

The most important thing is to maintain a good state of health! A routine check-up from your primary doctor, with basic lab work, is recommended. Stopping all forms of nicotine (cigarettes, vaping, patches, gum) at least 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery is required. Limiting alcohol intake for 10 days before surgery is recommended.

In accordance with WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) guidelines, letters of support (one from primary care physician and one from a counselor or therapist) are recommended for surgery, especially if insurance coverage is desired. There are requested as soon as possible following the initial consultation, to streamline paperwork and make the process easier.

HERE FOR YOU

Dr. Alison Shore (she/her) has been performing gender affirming surgery since founding Lakeview Plastic Surgery in 2013. With over a decade of experience, she has become one of Chicago’s leading top surgeons.

Understanding that top surgery is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, Dr. Shore is an expert at creating a unique plan to fit your goals and aesthetic.

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