MTF Top Surgery

Dr. Reid is a member of WPATH and does believe in their mission and recommendations.  However, each individual has a unique experience, and this is taken into account.  So ultimately, Dr. Reid subscribes to the “informed consent” model for his patients.  As such, a therapist’s letter is recommended but not an absolute requirement.  Hormone therapy is not an absolute requirement but does offer the benefits of increased breast tissue development and softening of the pectoralis muscle.  Dr. Reid does follow the WPATH standards for patients under the age of 18.

During surgery, Dr. Reid makes incisions either around the nipples or underneath the breast crease depending on what you have discussed preoperatively. Dr. Reid will be careful to create and place the incisions in a way that minimizes any visible scarring.

Through the incisions, a small pocket for the implant underneath the pectoral muscle is made. The implant will be positioned within the pocket. The incision is then closed with dissolvable sutures.

The two basic types of breast implants are saline filled breast implants and silicone filled breast implants. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Saline filled breast implants are plastic shells filled with sterilized salt water. The FDA has approved Saline filled breast implants for patients over the age of 18.

Many women prefer saline implant because of the cost. Saline implants are up to 25% less expensive that silicone. Another reason is the implant is inserted deflated, allowing for a smaller incision and less scarring.

The disadvantages of saline implants are more significant in transgender patients because of the lack of breast tissue, and patients frequently complain they don’t feel natural, and over time they have been known to ripple.

Silicone gel breast implants are plastic shells filled with silicone gel. The FDA has approved silicone gel breast implants for patients over the age of 22.

Advantages of silicone gel breast implants are they feel more natural, and are less likely to ripple.

With silicone filled breast implants, the implant is inserted full size in the breast tissue. This calls for a longer incision with higher risk for scarring. Also, if the implant ruptures the silicone stays put, making it difficult to detect the rupture. Periodic check-ups are recommended.

Form-stable breast implants are also known as gummy bear breast implants because they maintain shape if implant shell ruptures. The silicone has a thicker consistency which makes them firmer and less likely to break.

Round and teardrop (anatomical) breast implants are the two basic shapes for breast implants. Your breasts shape is as unique as you, so your breast implant shape must be determined with great consideration.

Round breast implants are symmetric, so the shape is not affected if the implant rotates after placement.

Anatomical breast implants (teardrop) have a more natural appearance. These breast implants are more common in transgender patients, but still less common that round implants. Texturing of the breast implant has reduced the risk of rotating.

The size you choose for your new breast is a very personal one, so it is important to get it right. If your choice is too small, you will be disappointed, too large could lead to lower back pain and discomfort. Do your research and don’t rush.  It is particularly important for us to also choose your breast implant size based on your chest dimensions to give a very natural and feminine appearance.

We believe there are many reasons, but our name, RESTORA, explains it all.

Results. The feminine-appearing chest that fits who you are!
Experience. Dr. Reid has the most experience in this surgery in Austin.
Safety. It is a privilege when you choose us, and we don’t take that responsibility lightly. Your well-being and comfort are our primary concerns, so your procedure will be performed in a fully accredited operating room with a board-certified anesthesiologist.
Team. Our team is a group of overachievers focused on delivering the best plastic surgery experience possible. Over half of us started out as patients of Dr. Gordon or Reid, so we have an intimate understanding of the anxiety and excitement that come with this decision.
On the Cutting Edge. Dr. Reid never rests on his past and present achievements. Dr. Gordon and his practice is a constant evolution in the “how” and “why” of aesthetic surgery, always perfecting techniques that minimize scarring, discomfort, and downtime but give maximal results.  Dr. Reid is actively involved with the Trans community, and as a gay man and doctor has special insight into the challenges that this patient population faces.
Respect. Our practice is built on word-of-mouth referrals from happy patients and our medical colleagues. Dr. Reid was named a Texas Super Doctor in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, & 2017. Super Doctors identifies top doctors as selected by their peers and only 5% of physicians are named to Super Doctors.
Artistic Approach. We don’t believe in “one operation fits all” cookie cutter approach to aesthetic surgery. Dr. Reid will create an individualized plan to exceed your expectations and bring out the best version of yourself.

Right after surgery you will be provided with a postoperative bra for support and healing. You will wear that for about a week.

After, a soft, comfortable bra, without under wires is desirable. Soft support will allow your implants to drop. After your implants settle, any bra you wish will suffice. In some cases however, when the implants are positioned well early on, a supportive bra will be recommended to hold the implants in place. Sometimes a special bra with an overlying strap may be used to “coax” the implants lower as you heal.

You should plan to take 5-7 days off of work.  Pain is usually mild with MTF Top Surgery, and we take pain control very seriously.  Drains are typically not used.  Sutures are dissolvable.  A gentle compression bra is used for 3 weeks after surgery.  This will aid in healing & decreases swelling.  Dr. Reid will see you at your first postoperative appointment, then typically at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year after.

Will I need to stop any of my medications before surgery?

You will be advised to stop taking certain medications and vitamins or herbal supplements that can contribute to excess bleeding 2 weeks prior to surgery. You will be given a full list of medications to discontinue, but the most common ones are Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E and Aspirin. Please be sure to include all vitamins and supplements you are taking on your health history form.

Does smoking affect the healing process, and if so, how far in advance of surgery should I quit?

Smoking decreases blood flow to the nipple and can lead to delayed wound healing and increase infection, so it should be avoided around the time of surgery.

Will I need any other tests or blood work done?

Lab work will be performed prior to surgery to ensure that you are not anemic and do not have an infection.  Based on your medical history, you may be asked to have additional laboratory studies or other diagnostic tests to ensure your overall health.

Your surgery will be performed under general anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist from Capitol Anesthesiology Association, who will monitor you during the entire procedure, ensuring your safety and comfort, and will remain with you until you are fully awake. Dr. Reid prefers general anesthesia, so that you are asleep and your chest muscles are completely relaxed and your airway is protected. This leads to less pain after surgery because your pectoralis muscles won’t be in a constant state of flexion during your surgery. This leads to less tightness and swelling in your post-operative period. Safety, comfort and a fast recovery are paramount to Drs. Reid.

MTF Top surgery takes from 1-2 hours and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Your MTF surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure at INSPIRE Surgery Centre, our state-of-the-art surgical facility that is certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF), which ensures the highest standard of surgical care. INSPIRE is conveniently located in the suite adjacent to Restora Austin and is staffed by a team of board-certified anesthesiologists and very experienced nurses and surgical techs, all of whom were hand-picked by Dr. Gordon and Dr. Reid. The facility is equipped with highly advanced monitors and the finest surgical equipment, and is fully equipped to handle any emergency situation if one should occur.

At your consultation, you will meet with Dr. Reid, personally.  Your medical and transition history will be carefully reviewed.  Individual goals will be discussed, and a plan, including breast size and shape, that meets your goals will be confirmed.  You should feel comfortable to ask as many questions as you like.