ISTANBUL, TURKEY
What Is FTM Top Surgery?
FTM top surgery, or chest masculinization surgery, removes breast tissue to create a flatter, more masculine chest contour.
The operation is tailored to your chest size, skin quality, excess skin and nipple position. The technique influences the final contour, nipple placement and scar location for each patient.
Who Is It For?
Top surgery may suit transgender men and non-binary patients seeking a flatter, more masculine chest.
Testosterone is not required. We review your health, medical history, photographs and goals, then confirm suitability and the plan during your consultation in Istanbul. Your goals help guide the treatment plan.
The most suitable technique depends on chest size, skin elasticity, nipple position and individual anatomy.
Double Incision
Double incision is generally suitable for a larger chest, significant excess skin or reduced elasticity.
Horizontal incisions create longer scars across the lower chest. It allows the most skin removal and shaping, but nipple resizing or repositioning may be needed.
The scars are the main trade-off.
Periareolar
Periareolar may suit a smaller chest with good skin elasticity and limited excess skin.
The scar follows the edge of the areola and may allow some tightening. Less skin can be removed than with double incision.
It is not suitable for larger chests or significant loose skin.
Keyhole
Keyhole is generally suitable for a very small chest with minimal excess skin and good elasticity.
A small areolar incision limits visible scarring, but offers little ability to tighten loose skin or reposition the nipple.
It is reserved for carefully selected patients with the right anatomy.
There is no single technique that suits every patient. Dr. Hakki Izmirli considers chest size, skin elasticity, nipple position, excess skin and your goals.
Clear photographs allow an initial assessment and recommendation. The final choice is confirmed after an in-person examination in Istanbul, when your anatomy can be assessed directly.
The plan is tailored to balance chest contour, scar placement, nipple position and safety, while reflecting your priorities.
Before & After Image Placeholder
Before & After Image Placeholder
Before & After Image Placeholder
Individual results vary. Photos are shown with patient consent.
Surgery and Recovery
FTM top surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and most patients stay one night in hospital. A compression vest is provided for the early recovery period.
Drains may be used when needed, depending on the technique and your individual case. The clinic provides guidance for wound care, showering and sleep.
Walking is encouraged soon after surgery. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and upper-body training are restricted temporarily, with guidance on when each activity can safely resume.
International patients should plan to remain in Istanbul for approximately 6–7 nights, allowing early follow-up and the final pre-flight examination before returning home.
Smoking and Nicotine
Nicotine can interfere with wound healing, especially when skin flaps or nipple grafts are involved.
Before surgery, patients must tell the clinic about cigarettes, vaping, IQOS and any other nicotine use.
The team will advise on stopping before surgery and avoiding nicotine during recovery. This helps reduce avoidable healing risks.
International Patients
Most international patients begin with an online photo assessment. Send clear chest photographs together with basic medical information, including current medications, medical conditions, previous operations and nicotine use.
Dr. Hakki Izmirli reviews the information and provides an initial recommendation. The final examination and surgical plan are completed in Istanbul.
Depending on the selected package, hotel accommodation and private transfers may be arranged. Available services are confirmed before you travel, with follow-up timing discussed in advance.
Do I need to be on testosterone before top surgery?
Do I need a gender dysphoria diagnosis?
Will I have drains?
How long should I stay in Istanbul?
When can I fly home?
Will my chest be completely flat?
Can you choose the technique from photographs?
Send us your photos and basic medical information for an initial assessment by Dr. Hakki Izmirli.
We will outline the next steps and discuss which technique may suit your anatomy and goals.