Breast removal is a common surgical procedure, and the most common reason for seeking surgery is gender reassignment. Other typical reasons include fear of breast cancer, genetic predisposition to breast cancer, or an irreversible desire to be free of breasts.

The surgery can be performed through an incision made next to the nipple if the breast is small—maximum approximately 300 grams—and only a small amount of skin needs to be removed. For large breasts, we remove the breast through an incision in the armpit, and the nipple is created as a free skin graft from the old nipple or later by tattooing. 

The breast is sutured from the inside of the wound cavity, and no drains or drainage tubes are used. With this technique, postoperative fluid cavities, seromas, are extremely rare, and there is no need to keep plastic tubes in the breasts after the procedure.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately 1.5 hours. You can return home on the same day after the surgery. The operated area is supported with a pressure bandage for 3-4 weeks after the surgery. 

Ibuprofen and paracetamol are usually sufficient for treating post-operative pain, combined with codeine if necessary.

Recovery is assessed one month after surgery. Six months later, another check-up is performed to ensure that everything is in order. 

We do not require prior testosterone treatment for individuals undergoing mastectomy.

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The price of the procedure includes 1-2 follow-up visits with the doctor, one piece of necessary support fabric, and a possible stitch removal/wound care visit with our nurse.

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Read more about this topic on our blog:

Breasts as a burden

Gender affirmation, breast removal