Gender-affirming mastectomy encompasses the full range of surgical approaches to chest masculinization — from minimal-incision techniques for smaller chests to extended methods for larger ones. Whichever approach suits your anatomy, the goal is the same: a flat, naturally contoured chest that reflects who you are and frees you from the daily burden of binding.
What Is Mastectomy?
Gender-affirming mastectomy is the surgical removal of breast tissue and reshaping of the chest to create a masculine contour. The term covers several distinct techniques, and the right one for you depends on your chest size, skin elasticity, nipple position, and aesthetic preferences. Whether you require a minimal periareolar approach or an extensive double incision with nipple repositioning, the outcome is a chest that aligns with your gender identity.
This is among the most commonly performed and most studied gender-affirming surgeries. Published research consistently demonstrates high satisfaction rates and significant reductions in gender dysphoria following the procedure. A thorough consultation covers your chest anatomy in detail, explains which technique will produce the best result for your body, and ensures you understand the trade-offs between scarring, sensation, and contour before making a decision.
Common Concerns Mastectomy Can Address
- Significant chest dysphoria affecting mental health and daily function
- Physical discomfort, skin irritation, or breathing restriction from binding
- Avoidance of activities such as swimming, exercise, or intimacy due to chest appearance
- Desire for permanent chest masculinization without reliance on compression garments
Are You a Good Candidate?
- You experience persistent gender dysphoria related to your chest
- You are in good general health and at a stable weight
- You have a referral from a qualified mental health professional as per WPATH guidelines
Techniques & Options
Gender-affirming mastectomy is not a one-size-fits-all surgery. The technique your surgeon recommends will be determined by the volume of breast tissue to be removed, the amount of excess skin, your skin's ability to retract, and your nipple position relative to the desired masculine placement. During consultation, your surgeon will evaluate all of these factors and explain the specific advantages and limitations of each approach for your body.
The two most commonly used techniques are:
Double Incision Mastectomy
The standard approach for patients with moderate to large chests. Two horizontal incisions are placed along the lower border of the pectoral muscles, allowing thorough removal of breast tissue and excess skin. The nipple-areolar complex is removed, resized to masculine proportions, and grafted onto the chest in an anatomically appropriate position. This technique provides the surgeon with the greatest control over final chest shape and symmetry.
- Effective for all chest sizes, including larger and ptotic breasts
- Allows complete removal of excess skin for a flat result
- Precise nipple repositioning and resizing for masculine aesthetics
Inverted-T (Anchor) Mastectomy
Used for patients with very large or pendulous chests where significant skin removal is required beyond what the standard double incision accommodates. An additional vertical scar extends downward from the horizontal incision, similar to the anchor pattern used in reduction mammoplasty. This allows maximum skin excision and tight contouring of the lower chest.
- Accommodates very large chest volumes with excessive skin
- Provides excellent lower chest contouring and tightening
- Reduces risk of residual skin laxity or dog-ear deformities
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Moderate soreness, tightness, and chest swelling are part of the early healing process and respond well to prescribed pain relief. Surgical drains collect excess fluid beneath the skin flaps. You will wear a compression vest and rest at your recovery accommodation with daily care coordinator visits.
Week 1–2
Drains are typically removed within five to seven days. Bruising and swelling begin to resolve. You will attend follow-up appointments to check incision healing and nipple graft viability if applicable. Light activities such as short walks and dining out are comfortable.
Weeks 3–6
Comfort and mobility improve steadily. Most patients return to desk work and gentle lower-body exercise. The compression vest is worn for four to six weeks to support healing. Avoid reaching overhead, heavy lifting, and upper-body workouts.
Months 2–6
Your settled chest contour emerges as residual swelling resolves. Scars transition from red or pink to paler tones over 12–18 months. Full physical activity, including upper-body exercise and swimming, can restart once you have surgical clearance.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
Gender-affirming mastectomy is a safe, well-studied procedure performed by experienced surgeons worldwide. Like all surgery, it carries potential risks that you should understand before proceeding.
- Haematoma or seroma requiring drainage
- Nipple graft partial or complete loss (when free grafts are used)
- Changes in or loss of nipple and chest sensation
- Hypertrophic or keloid scarring
- Contour irregularities or asymmetry requiring revision
- Wound infection or delayed healing (uncommon)
Individual risk factors, including chest size, skin type, health history, and healing tendencies, are reviewed during consultation to shape the technique and post-operative plan most likely to produce a safe, satisfying result. Adherence to compression garment use and activity restrictions plays a significant role in minimising complications.
How Much Does Mastectomy Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Mastectomy
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Mastectomy
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDGender Affirmation Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 25, 2026
Medical References
- WPATH Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8 (2022)
- Olson-Kennedy J et al. Chest Reconstruction and Chest Dysphoria in Transmasculine Minors and Young Adults — JAMA Pediatrics (2018)
- McEvenue G et al. A Systematic Review of Surgical Outcomes in Transmasculine Top Surgery — Annals of Plastic Surgery (2017)
- Agarwal CA et al. Quality of Life Improvement After Chest Surgery in Trans Men — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2018)
Medical disclaimer: Content on this site is provided for informational purposes and should not be treated as medical advice. Outcomes, timelines, and eligibility differ from person to person. Speak with an experienced gender-affirming surgeon before proceeding with any procedure.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
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