Masculinizing Chest Surgery

Masculinizing chest surgery, sometimes called top surgery, removes breast tissue and excess skin and reshapes the chest to a flatter, more masculine contour. Where needed, the nipple and areola are resized and repositioned to suit the new chest shape.

The technique is chosen around your anatomy. Smaller chests with good skin elasticity may suit a periareolar or keyhole approach that preserves the nipple on its own blood supply. Larger chests or skin with less elasticity usually suit a double-incision approach, often with free nipple grafting. Dr. Amoroso recommends the method that gives the best contour with the most reliable healing for you.

What it can improve

• A flatter, firmer, more masculine chest contour
• Removal of breast tissue and excess skin
• Nipple and areola size and position to match the chest
• Comfort and confidence in clothing and daily life

It does not change underlying bone structure and cannot guarantee perfect symmetry or scar-free healing. Scars are permanent, though placed and cared for to fade over time.

Quick facts

• Procedure time: 2–4 hours depending on technique
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia
• Clinic stay: Same-day or short stay
• Recovery: Around 2 weeks before light daily activity
• Exercise: Strenuous activity and chest exercise from about 6 weeks
• Final result: Settles over 6–12 months as scars mature

Before the procedure

You will receive individualized instructions covering medication, supplements, smoking, alcohol, and fasting. The approach, nipple position, and realistic outcomes are planned together, and timing within your wider care is discussed. A compression garment is arranged for recovery.

During the procedure

Breast tissue and excess skin are removed and the chest is contoured. Depending on the technique, the nipple and areola are reshaped and repositioned, either preserved on a pedicle or placed as a graft. Drains may be used to reduce fluid collection.

After the procedure

Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal and settle gradually. A compression garment is worn as advised, light walking is encouraged early, and chest exercise is reintroduced gradually. Scars continue to soften and fade over many months.

Results: what it can and cannot achieve

A flatter, more masculine chest contour is achievable. Surgery cannot guarantee perfect symmetry, cannot remove the need for permanent scars, and cannot change sensation in every case, since nipple sensation may be reduced, particularly after grafting. Your surgeon explains what is realistic for your anatomy.

Possible risks and complications

Chest surgery is generally safe in experienced hands, but all surgery carries risks. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing
• Fluid collection (seroma) or bruising
• Changes in or loss of nipple sensation
• Partial or, rarely, full loss of a nipple graft
• Asymmetry, contour irregularity, or visible scarring
• Need for minor revision in some cases

Smoking and impaired circulation raise the risk of healing problems and wound complications, so honest assessment and smoking cessation are essential.

Masculinizing chest surgery may suit individuals seeking a flatter, more masculine chest. It is especially suitable for those who:

• Wish to remove breast tissue and masculinize the chest
• Are in good general health with realistic expectations
• Have considered timing within their wider care
• Understand that scars are permanent
• Do not smoke or can stop before and after surgery

It may not suit those who are not yet ready to proceed or who have health factors that increase surgical risk. Eligibility and timing are assessed individually and in line with recognized standards of care.

Gender-affirming surgery by Dr. Matteo Amoroso

Gender-affirming surgery at Skulpturkliniken is performed by Dr. Matteo Amoroso, a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon experienced in both masculinizing and feminizing procedures (MTF and FTM).

Individually tailored, respectful results

Dr. Amoroso plans every procedure around your anatomy and goals, with respect for the fact that gender-affirming care is deeply personal. The aim is a result that feels like you.

Reconstructive precision meets aesthetic judgment

From the first consultation, Dr. Amoroso helps you understand which technique suits your anatomy, what is realistic, and how the procedure fits into your broader care.

Individualized assessment

Every procedure begins with a thorough, respectful assessment. We evaluate:

• Your anatomy, skin quality, and breast size
• Technique choice based on your goals
• General health and healing factors
• Your broader gender-affirming care plan
• Your goals and realistic expectations

Safety, precision, and long-term care

Safety is central to every step of the surgical journey. Your treatment includes:

1. ✓ Specialist consultation with Dr. Matteo Amoroso
2. ✓ Detailed assessment and individualized surgical planning
3. ✓ Careful evaluation of whether surgery is the right option
4. ✓ Preoperative preparation guidance
5. ✓ Surgery in a safe and controlled surgical environment
6. ✓ Scheduled postoperative follow-up visits
7. ✓ Direct access to the surgeon and nursing team
8. ✓ Digital medical records through Adoreal®
9. ✓ Patient insurance through Folksam
10. ✓ Long-term postoperative support