The terms “top surgery” and “mastectomy” are often used interchangeably.
However, the two are not one and the same.
They are separate procedures designed for different goals.
Peathegee Inc/Getty Images
This article discusses the differences between top surgery and mastectomy.
What a Mastectomy Is Used For
A mastectomy is used to treatbreast cancer.
The types and methods include:
When Should a Person Choose Mastectomy?
The pain develops in the chest wall and armpit and presents as a burning or shooting pain sensation.
What a Top Surgery Is Used For
Top surgeryis a form of chest reconstructive surgery.
When a person wants to change how their chest looks or its size, they will have top surgery.
This procedure is consideredgender-affirming surgeryfortransgenderindividuals who wish to alter their chest to match theirgender identity.
Various types of top surgery are performed in different ways.
Male-to-female top surgery is done by making an incision into the chest and inserting saline andsilicone implants.
Studies show that these surgeries can immensely improve thequality of life for transgender individuals.
What Makes Them Different?
While top surgery is sometimes called mastectomy, not all top surgeries are the same.
The main difference between the two is the goal they set out to accomplish.
Top surgery is most similar to a double mastectomy performed with skin and nipple-sparing surgical techniques.
The male-to-female top surgery process is entirely different from a mastectomy because no breast tissue is removed.
Instead, an implant is added to the area.
Can I Get Breast Cancer After Top Surgery?
Top surgeries to make breasts smaller don’t always end with all breast tissue removed.
Because of this, there is still a chance that a person may get breast cancer following top surgery.
Its crucial to keep up with screenings even after your transition.
Summary
Top surgery and mastectomy may seem similar, but the two are not the same.
Top surgeries are used for gender-reaffirming purposes, and mastectomies treat breast cancer.
There are various types of mastectomies, with only two being considered similar to top surgery.
Both procedures come with possible side effects, such as swelling in the area and pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
While top surgery is often considered elective, many insurance providers cover the surgery.
This is because they understand how necessary it can be for some people.
With less tissue, there is less of a chance of getting cancer.
That said, people who undergo top surgery should still get regular breast cancer screenings.
Mastectomies are often recommended and highly effective.
However, there are instances in which the procedure is not likely to help.
American Cancer Society.What is a Mastectomy?
doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000019834
American Society of Plastic Surgeons.Transmasculine Top Surgery.
The Mauer Foundation.How Does Sex Reassignment Surgery Affect Breast Cancer Risk Factors?
