Questions to Ask at Your Top Surgery Consultation
Choosing where and with whom to have your top surgery is one of the most important decisions in your transition. A good consultation should leave you feeling informed, not rushed. Here are the questions worth bringing with you.
About the Surgeon
Ask how many top surgeries they perform each year, and how much of their practice is focused on gender-affirming care. Ask about their training in FTM chest masculinization specifically, which professional societies they belong to (for example ISAPS or WPATH), and how they approach communication — including your name and pronouns throughout your care.
Choosing the Right Technique
Every chest is different. Ask why a particular technique (double incision, periareolar, or keyhole) is being recommended for you, what alternatives exist, and how factors like skin elasticity, chest size, and nipple position influenced that decision. Ask where scars will be placed and how nipple position and size will be handled.
Results & Long-Term Outcomes
Ask to see a portfolio of previous results, ideally with a range of body types similar to your own. Ask what changes in nipple sensation are typical, and over what timeframe sensation may return.
Risks & Complications
No surgery is risk-free. Ask about the most common complications for your chosen technique, how they are managed if they occur, and what warning signs you should watch for after you’ve returned home. If you have a family history of relevant health conditions, mention it and ask how it factors into your evaluation.
Preparing for Surgery
Ask what is required before your surgery date — this may include stopping smoking or hormone therapy for a period, blood tests, or other medical clearance. Ask what instructions you’ll receive in writing so you can prepare properly, especially if you’re traveling from abroad.
Surgery Day
Ask what type of anesthesia is used, how long the procedure typically takes, and who will be present in the operating room. Ask what happens immediately afterward and when you’ll be able to see or speak with someone from the clinical team.
Recovery & Aftercare
Ask how long you should plan to stay in the city after surgery, what your follow-up schedule looks like, and what aftercare is included — dressing changes, garment use, and scar care guidance. Ask when you can expect to return to light activity, work, exercise, and swimming.
Revision Surgery
Ask how often revisions are needed for your chosen technique, and what the process and cost would look like if one is recommended later.
Cost & Payment
Ask for a clear, itemized quote that covers the full scope of your care — not just the surgeon’s fee. Ask what is required to secure your date, what the payment schedule looks like, and whether anything could change that quote once you arrive.
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About the surgeon
Dr. Hakki Izmirli
Plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience, based in Nişantaşı, Istanbul. Dr. Izmirli trained at Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine and completed his residency in Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Kocaeli University. His research on free nipple grafting has been published in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and JPRAS.
Professional memberships: WPATH (Full Member) · ISAPS · ASPS (International Member) · TPRECD
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Medical disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information only and does not replace a personal consultation with a doctor. Every patient is different; results vary from person to person and cannot be guaranteed.
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