Top surgery is a gender-affirming procedure designed to help individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity. For transgender men, this typically involves Mastectomy to create a more masculine chest, while for transgender women, it may involve Chest Augmentation to achieve a more feminine appearance. The cost of top surgery in the UK can vary depending on factors such as the procedure type, the surgeon's expertise, and the clinic's location.
In this article, we will discuss the cost of top surgery in the UK, what the cost typically covers, whether medical insurance can cover the procedure, and if top surgery is available on the NHS for free.
Overview of top surgery
Top surgery is a gender-affirming procedure designed to remove breast tissue and reshape the chest to align with a person’s gender identity. The goal of top surgery is to provide a more masculine, flat chest or a more feminine chest, depending on the individual's transition goals. It is an essential step in gender-affirming surgery for many transgender and non-binary individuals, providing both physical and emotional benefits.
The procedure typically involves the removal of breast tissue and, in some cases, the repositioning of the nipple and areola. There are various surgical techniques for top surgery, depending on the amount of tissue to be removed and the desired aesthetic outcome. Common techniques include the periareolar, double incision, and keyhole methods.
Top surgery helps individuals achieve a chest shape that aligns with their gender identity, which can significantly reduce gender dysphoria and improve overall well-being.
“Top surgery can have a profound, positive impact on the mental and emotional well-being of transgender individuals, helping them feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies,” says our Gender Affirming and Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Miss Kate Williams. For more information, visit Pall Mall's gender affirmation surgery page.
Cost of top surgery
The cost of top surgery varies depending on several factors, including the type of procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the clinic’s location. The cost may also be influenced by whether additional procedures are necessary, such as Liposuction or tissue removal for female-to-male (FTM) Mastectomy. It’s essential to consider the full range of costs, including pre-op consultations, the surgery itself, post-operative care, and any follow-up appointments. Below, we’ll break down the costs for both FTM and male-to-female (MTF) top surgery to give you a clearer picture.
Gender affirming Mastectomy
The cost of a gender-affirming Mastectomy typically ranges from £5,000 to £8,000 in the UK. This includes a variety of services, such as preoperative consultations, the surgical procedure itself, and post-operative care.
Factors that influence the cost include the complexity of the surgery, the type of mastectomy being performed (e.g. Double Incision, Periareolar), and whether additional procedures like Liposuction or tissue removal are needed. For instance, patients with larger breasts may require more extensive surgery, which could increase the overall cost.
The price also covers aftercare, including follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and manage any complications that may arise. This ensures that patients receive all the necessary support throughout their recovery process.
For more details on top surgery, visit our female to male top surgery page.
Gender affirming Chest Augmentation
The cost of gender-affirming Chest Augmentation, which involves breast implants to create a fuller chest, typically ranges between £6,000 and £9,000 in the UK. This price includes the surgery, as well as the essential pre- and post-operative care.
The procedure can vary in complexity depending on factors such as the type and size of the implants, the surgical technique used (e.g. subglandular or submuscular placement), and whether any additional procedures, like Liposuction, are required to create the desired result.
Aftercare is an essential part of the cost and involves follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the best possible results.
For more details on top surgery, visit our male to female top surgery page.
What does the cost of top surgery cover?
The cost of top surgery generally includes a comprehensive package that covers all aspects of the surgical journey, from initial consultations to post-operative care.
Preoperative consultations: Before undergoing top surgery, patients will have an initial consultation with the surgeon. This meeting is essential to discuss the patient’s goals, expectations, and medical history. It’s also when the surgeon will assess the patient’s suitability for surgery, determine the best approach for the procedure, and provide information on how to prepare for the surgery.
The surgery itself: The main cost of top surgery is for the procedure itself. Whether you’re undergoing a gender-affirming Mastectomy or Chest Augmentation, the surgery is tailored to your individual needs. The price generally includes the surgical fees for the surgeon, anaesthetist, and surgical team who will be present during the operation.
Post-operative care: After surgery, patients will need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery. These appointments ensure the healing process is on track, and any concerns or complications are addressed promptly. Aftercare typically includes dressing changes, wound management, and post-op advice on how to manage pain and avoid infection.
Supportive team: Alongside the surgeon, patients will be supported by a dedicated team of medical professionals, including patient advisors, nurses, and potentially physiotherapists. This ensures you have a well-rounded support system before, during, and after the procedure to help you feel comfortable and confident throughout your journey.
These services are typically included in the overall cost, but it’s important to confirm with your clinic to ensure there are no hidden fees.
Does medical insurance cover the cost of top surgery?
In the UK, medical insurance typically does not cover the cost of gender-affirming top surgery, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, some private insurers may cover the surgery if it is deemed medically necessary, such as when there is a documented history of gender dysphoria. It’s important to check with your insurer to understand their policy on gender-affirming surgery.
For those who do not have insurance coverage or prefer an alternative, Pall Mall offers flexible payment options, including payment plans, to help make the procedure more accessible. These plans allow patients to spread the cost of their surgery over time.
Can I get gender affirming surgery on the NHS for free?
In the UK, gender-affirming surgery may be available on the NHS, but only under specific circumstances. To qualify, patients must go through a lengthy process that typically includes a referral from a gender clinic, assessment of gender dysphoria, and a period of living in their gender identity. The NHS can offer surgery once these criteria are met, but wait times can be long due to high demand. For faster access, many patients choose private surgery options, which can be more timely but involve associated costs.
Get in touch to find out how Pall Mall can help with your gender affirmation goals
If you’re considering gender-affirming surgery and want to explore your options, Pall Mall is here to provide guidance, support, and expert care every step of the way. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve your gender affirmation goals with tailored solutions that prioritise your wellbeing. To learn more about our services, or to book a consultation, get in touch with us today. We’re here to answer any questions and help you take the next step in your journey.
