To achieve a smooth, masculine chest, IM GENDER’s team of surgeons will perform a subcutaneous mastectomy to preserve the mammary areolas (adapting their size to a more masculine standard) and the nipples. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts 2–3 hours.
Three different techniques can be used for mastectomy, depending mainly on the size of the breasts:
Periareolar technique. When the breast is small, this surgical technique is usually chosen. It consists of making an incision around the areola, through which the glandular tissue is removed. This technique allows scarring to be kept to a minimum.
Extended periareolar technique. This technique is usually used when the breasts are voluminous. Basically, it consists of making the periareolar incision plus another incision that is extended towards the armpit area through which the glandular tissue is removed. In this case, the scars are more evident than in the periareolar technique, although over time they may be concealed by body hair.
Free graft technique. When the breasts are really voluminous or when the patient is considered a “heavy” smoker, the surgeon usually opts for areola grafts during surgery.
All these techniques can be combined with a reduction in the size of the areola and nipple, which will improve the final result in some cases. Prior liposuction can also be used to reduce the size of the scars and improve the pectoral contour.