DESCRIPTION OF SURGICAL PROCEDURES:
Bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction of the nipple and areola by grafting of native tissues affords the best chance for symmetry and proportion. It involves to a 2 1/2 to 3 hour operation, performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis at a modern, gender sensitive San Francisco surgical facility or hospital.
The nipple/areolar reconstruction employs grafts of existing nipple and areolar tissues to construct a symmetrical, properly positioned and sized male nipple/areolar segment.
The patient with very small breasts may be appropriate for other techniques, such as the "keyhole" or subcutaneous mastectomy. This is accomplished through a small periareolar incision. The advantage of this procedure is the smaller incision and the lack of need for grafts. A good result requires residual skin to contract naturally so as to leave no excess of skin.
A personal consultation is required prior to surgery. Where individuals come to San Francisco from other areas of the country or another country, this consultation can be provided just a day or two before surgery. I have considerable correspondence with my patients long before I meet them personally.
A letter of referral from a therapist may be required, indicating the appropriateness of the procedure and timing of this stage of your transition. Hormone therapy is not a requirement for chest reconstruction surgery.
Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis in most cases. The surgery is performed at fully accredited facilities and hospitals, located in the city of San Francisco; the staff are accustomed to my practice and patients, sensitive to their concerns, and capable and eager to provide care and assistance. Followup care is routinely administered at my office.
The techniques used have been developed over my many years of experience, modifying and individualizing said techniques to obtain the best possible result for each of my patients.