Cadogan Clinic is a leading specialist cosmetic surgery clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to the leading specialists in breast augmentation, liposuction, and a comprehensive range of face, breast and body treatments.
View all Cosmetic SurgeryCadogan Clinic is a leading specialist cosmetic surgery clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to the leading specialists in breast augmentation, liposuction, and a comprehensive range of face, breast and body treatments.
Cadogan Clinic offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery to help make the changes you want to your breasts under the guidance of the best surgeons in the UK.
Cadogan Clinic offers a range of cosmetic surgery to help make the changes you want to your body under the guidance of the very best surgeons in the UK.
Fat transfer, also referred to as fat grafting and lipofilling, has become widely accepted as the optimal means of soft-tissue filling in all areas of the body, including the face, breasts, hands and buttocks
Cadogan Clinic offers a wide range of facial cosmetic surgery procedures to help you make the changes you want, under the guidance of the very best surgeons.
Gender dysphoria is a term used to describe how an individual feels a strong sense of disassociation between their gender identity and biological sex.
Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of cosmetic gynaecological surgery procedures performed by a multi-disciplinary team of the best surgeons in the UK.
For many people, losing weight can be achieved by eating healthily and taking regular exercise. However, sometimes weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, may be necessary.
Cadogan Clinic provides both female and male cosmetic surgery. Almost all of our procedures are suitable for men as well as women.
The Cadogan Clinic Surgical Aftercare and Scar Management Programmes have been developed to optimise patient well-being, recovery and scar management.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading non surgical cosmetic clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading injectable, filler and laser specialists, and are experts in the anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation process.
View all Non-SurgicalCadogan Clinic is a leading non surgical cosmetic clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading injectable, filler and laser specialists, and are experts in the anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation process.
There are many factors which contribute to ageing skin and when deciding on a treatment solution, these are important to consider.
At the Cadogan Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments, to refresh and rejuvenate your appearance.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading dermatology clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading acne, eczema and rosacea specialists, and are experts in the mole and skin cancer diagnosis and removal process.
View all DermatologyCadogan Clinic is a leading dermatology clinic based in the heart of London. We’re home to some of the leading acne, eczema and rosacea specialists, and are experts in the mole and skin cancer diagnosis and removal process.
Skin is incredibly important to your health and your appearance. The Cadogan Clinic has one of the largest and experienced teams of consultant dermatologists.
We are all becoming increasingly aware of the risks posed by sun damage to the skin, as well as the need to protect our skin in day-to-day life.
Cadogan Clinic is a leading day case centre of excellence based in the heart of London. Alongside our international team of plastic surgeons and dermatologists, we’re home to some of the leading gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists and urologists in the country.
View all DepartmentsCadogan Clinic is a leading day case centre of excellence based in the heart of London. Alongside our international team of plastic surgeons and dermatologists, we’re home to some of the leading gynaecologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists and urologists in the country.
We are experts in a wide range of Andrology treatments, in both elective and medical conditions.
Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of cosmetic gynaecological surgery procedures performed by a multi-disciplinary team of the best surgeons in the UK.
We are experts in a wide range of hand problems, in both elective and traumatic conditions.
Cosmetic foot surgery can help by firstly eliminating the sources of chronic pain or deformity and secondly, reshaping the feet for aesthetic appeal, often resulting in smaller, slimmer feet with a reduced shoe size.
Vascular surgery is a surgical subspecialty in which diseases of the vascular system, or arteries, veins and lymphatic circulation, are managed by medical therapy, minimally-invasive catheter procedures, and surgical reconstruction.
We offer a range of Women’s Health and Wellness services, from fertility, family planning and pregnancy care to a comprehensive range of gynaecology health services
Gender Surgery
at Cadogan Clinic, London’s Leading Cosmetic Surgery Specialists.
Get in touchWe have invited only the very best consultants to practice at our specialist clinic.
Our state-of the-art award winning facilities are located right in the heart of London.
Award Winning Specialist Clinic
We've won 12 top industry awards since 2010 and regularly feature in the national and international press.
Industry Leading Consultants
We've invited only the very best consultants in the country to practice with us.
Care Quality Commission
We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
GMC Registered Surgeons
All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.
Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading plastic surgeons
Female to male (FTM) Top Surgery is a surgical procedure, carried out for transgender men to create a flatter, more masculine-looking chest. Many patients find this gender-affirming procedure extremely liberating.
This involves removing the breasts in a procedure known as a mastectomy and any excess skin and fat around the breast area before repositioning the nipples and areolas. There are a number of different surgical methods your surgeon may choose from depending on the size of the breasts and the elasticity of the skin.
FTM top surgery is a permanent alternative to chest binding, which can cause problems such as skin irritation and breathing difficulties when carried out long term.
Get in touchSurgery Time
2.5 hours
Time off work
2 weeks
Hospital Stay
Day Case
Shower
6 days
Reasonable Mobility
Same day
Exercise
6 weeks
Bras & Garments
6 weeks
45 degrees
2 weeks
Full Recovery
6 weeks
Female to male top surgery is used to create a natural-looking male chest. Top surgery helps to address gender dysphoria, a condition that causes great distress and stems from a feeling of disconnect between a person’s biological sex and gender identity.
Gender reassignment helps to treat gender dysphoria as well as alleviating other mental health conditions that are associated with this diagnosis, such as depression and anxiety. FTM top surgery will help to increase your confidence and self-esteem and have a positive impact on your quality of life. The aim of this and any gender affirming surgery is to help you feel at ease with your identity and to allow you to present in the way you feel comfortable.
Our specialist gender reassignment surgeons will meet you for a one to one consultation to assess your suitability for surgery. Your surgeon will examine your chest in order to decide which the best method of surgery would be for you.
They will discuss your expectations of surgery and ensure you understand the individual results that are possible from your procedure. They will also assess your general physical and mental health to make sure you are suitable for a general anaesthetic procedure, this may include your weight, and any medical and mental conditions you have. You must be over 18 to have this procedure, and your surgeon may request referrals from other gender reassignment specialists you are already working with to be able to go ahead with your surgery. Your patient advisor will be able to help you with getting these referrals if you don’t already have them.
Words from our clients:
"I was extremely satisfied with the care and treatment I received at the Cadogan Clinic. My surgeon was friendly and informative and explained the procedure fully. My procedure went very well and with the excellent care of the nursing staff, I made a speedy and full recovery. Would recommend to anyone."Eva Berry
"At the beginning before the operation the nurse taking care of me made me feel so comfortable. The surgeon and anesthetist helped me feel so calm. Fantastic before and after treatment"Scarlett Elliott
"The girls on the reception at the clinic were very pleasant and professional. The nurse who took out my stitches after my surgery was just lovely and took me through step by step what she was doing and she also recommended a great cream to use to help with healing."Georgina Nolan
“I was treated with care and provided with thorough knowledge about the procedure I was undertaking. My surgeon was very methodical (a perfectionist) and I felt I received A class treatment."Courtney O'Sullivan
"Outstanding experience from the first appointment to being discharged. Very professional, friendly and a fantastic outcome."Gemma Stevenson
"Reception staff very welcoming and efficient. Both nurses who I dealt with were fantastic, and the whole team (anaesthetist, surgeon etc) were friendly but professional, and really put my mind at ease. That I was able to stay later than I perhaps needed after my surgery to fit in with my husbands schedule was greatly appreciated."Emma Davies
Included in this treatment
Up to two 60 minute consultations with a leading specialist plastic surgeon at our award-winning premises in Chelsea
Your procedure carried out at London’s leading specialist cosmetic surgery centre of excellence
24/7 on call nurse assistance
Dedicated Patient Co-ordinator, as a personal point of contact through your journey with Cadogan
A pre-operative medical assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery
Comprehensive post-operative aftercare courtesy of our specialist cosmetic nurses
Female to Male Top Surgery is a surgical procedure, performed under general anaesthetic which takes 3-4 hours to complete. The exact time of your procedure will depend on the amount of breast tissue which needs to be removed and the method of surgery your surgeon recommends for your procedure. It is not dissimilar to a mastectomy.
There are 3 main 'types' of tops surgery: the double incision, the periareolar, and the keyhole.
Double incision top surgery
This is the most common method used in FTM top surgery. Your surgeon will remove your areolas and nipples and make them smaller. They will then make long incisions to remove the breast tissue, known as a mastectomy before using liposuction to remove any excess fat. Finally, any excess skin is removed so the incision can be closed leaving a flat chest. Your surgeon will use special sutures to create a flat line and prevent any puckering around the incision sites.
Periareolar top surgery
Periareolar Top Surgery is suited to patients with smaller chests, and is also known as a Donut Procedure. Two circular incisions are made, one inside the other, around the border of the areola. The breast tissue is then removed and liposuction is used to remove any excess fat. The edges of the larger incision are then pulled together, resizing the areola.
Keyhole top surgery
This particular method of FTM top surgery is only suited for patients with very small chests and tight skin. A small incision is made along the bottom half of the areola, leaving it partially attached to the body. Similar to periareolar top surgery, the breast tissue is removed and liposuction carried out to remove any excess fat, if required. The nipples will be resized and the incision closed.
We have invited a selection of the country's very best consultants to join us at the Cadogan Clinic so that you can be sure that whatever the nature of your treatment, you will be seeing one of the top practitioners in the country.
Below you will find some key information to help you prepare for surgery and make necessary arrangements to ensure you have the support you need and that everything runs smoothly on the day.
01.The Consultation
You will meet your specialist gender reassignment surgeon for up to two consultations at our award-winning Chelsea based clinic to discuss FTM Top Surgery and your hopes for surgery. Your surgeon will discuss your medical history and the steps you have taken in your transition so far. They may ask to review 1-2 referral letters from other gender specialists you have previously worked with. This is to ensure that you are at the right point in your transition to undergo top surgery.
We recommend writing any questions you have for your surgeon down, while you are preparing for your consultation. This will allow you to get the most out of your consultation and allow you to walk away feeling confident and fully prepared.
Your surgeon will also carry out a general health and wellness check, take your measurements and take photos for your medical records. This will help them to put together your surgical plan in as much detail as possible.
Following your consultation, your surgeon will send your completed surgical plan to your patient advisor. Your advisor will explain the plan and the procedure your surgeon has suggested for you, as well the pricing and your surgeon’s available dates for surgery. You will then have a compulsory two week cooling off period to consider the options that have been given to you and whether you would like to go ahead with surgery.
02.Leading up to Procedure
If you decide to proceed with FTM Top Surgery, there are certain steps your surgeon will ask you to follow in preparation for surgery:
03.On the day
Your arrival time will be an hour before your surgery is due to begin. The nurses will prepare you for surgery by taking your blood pressure, height and weight and asking you to change into a surgical gown and compression socks. Your surgeon and anaesthetist will come to greet you and answer any questions. Your surgeon will then make any markings they need to carry out your procedure.
When you are taken into theatre, your anaesthetist will administer your general anaesthetic. All procedures at Cadogan Clinic are performed using TIVA (Total Intravenous Anaesthesia) as it has a faster initial recovery time and less risk of post-operative nausea and vomiting.
Once your surgery is finished, you will be taken to our recovery ward, where you will wake up from the anaesthetic and a nurse will check your vital health signs. Once you are awake and comfortable, you will be taken into our ambulatory ward to have something to eat and drink. When you are ready, a nurse will talk you through any medication and aftercare you will need once you leave. You will then get changed and your chaperone will come to collect you.
04.Treatment Recovery
In the first few days following surgery, you will likely experience some pain, bruising and swelling, this is completely normal and will calm down within the first 2 weeks. Most patients are mobile within 2-3 days and can bathe normally after this time. Your surgeon will ask you to wear a compression vest for up to 8 weeks post-surgery to preserve your results and to reduce the swelling. They may also ask you to sleep on your back for the first few weeks of recovery to prevent any pressure being placed on your chest.
One week after your surgery you see our nurses so they can assess your incisions and make sure you are healing well. They will explain how to look after and change your dressings from this point onwards and will answer any questions you have about your aftercare.
Six weeks after your surgery you will see your surgeon so they can discuss your results and recovery. After this point, if you have any questions or concerns you will still be able to contact our nurses or your patient advisor who will be able to organise for you to speak with your surgeon if necessary.
The Patient Journey. A breakdown of what you can expect on your journey with us
We are deeply invested in ensuring that every step of your surgical journey with us is as informative and reassuring to you as it can be. This article outlines what you can expect at each stage of the journey
The Patient JourneyWhat are the benefits of FTM surgery?
FTM surgery helps to alleviate gender dysphoria by bringing a person’s body in line with their gender identity. Most people who have top surgery will find that they have an improved self-image once the operation is completed and the body has had a chance to heal. By helping trans men to feel happier and more connected with their bodies, this usually has an overwhelmingly positive impact on all areas of their life. FTM surgery helps to restore confidence and improves mental health, alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
This newfound confidence can help in the workplace, in social situations and aid with forming romantic relationships.
Top surgery results in a more masculine-looking chest, replacing female characteristics. Our surgeons at the Cadogan Clinics are experts in their field and have the knowledge and skills to help you to reach your body goals.
What type of surgeon is best for FTM top surgery?
The best surgeon to perform top surgery is an aesthetic surgeon who has specific training in gender-affirming surgeries.
Here at the Cadogan Clinic, all of our surgeons are world-class experts in their field. This expertise means that our surgeons are highly sought after to perform female to male surgery in London.
What kind of scarring can I expect following top surgery?
You should expect a degree of scarring following any type of top surgery. Scarring from surgical incision looks like a thin, raised line on top of the skin. As it heals, it will darken and flatten.
The size, length and exact location of these scars in FTM top surgery depends on the surgical technique used. The keyhole and periareolar methods of top surgery are less invasive than double incision top surgery. As a result, this generally results in less scarring.
The good news is that any scarring will gradually fade, but the speed of this varies from person to person. Three months after surgery you can start to use bio oil on your scars to help lessen their appearance. You should avoid smoking, tanning, excessive scrubbing and scratching the area during the healing process as these can make scarring worse.
Some people have a condition called keloid that causes excessive tissue growth in the wound area. Keloid scars are thicker and more noticeable than regular scars. In the unlikely event that you acquire an infection of the wound, this can also make scars thicker and it takes longer for them to go.
The Cadogan Clinic provides every patient with access to one of London’s most advanced scar minimisation programmes, led by our scar prevention team here at the clinic.
What kind of results can I expect following top surgery?
After the post-surgery swelling subsides, you should expect to have a flatter, contoured, more masculine-looking chest. There may be some scarring, depending on which technique is used in your top surgery. You may also find that you experience a reduction or loss of nipple sensation, depending on which surgical technique is used during the operation.
Once you have recovered from your operation, you can begin to enjoy a new body which helps to heal the feeling of disconnect caused by gender dysphoria. You should notice an overall boost in your mental health and wellbeing, as well as a boost in self-confidence.
Is top surgery painful?
You can expect some discomfort for around four or five days after your FTM top surgery. In the event that you do experience any mild to moderate pain or discomfort, this can be controlled with over-the-counter painkillers. The chest area will be swollen and on average this will take two to three weeks to subside. However you may find the area is still swollen for anywhere up to six months after surgery.
As part of your treatment with the Cadogan Clinic, you will have access to 24/7 on-call nurse assistance for the duration of your recovery.
Can I get top surgery on the NHS?
Yes, it is possible to get FTM top surgery on the NHS if you meet the criteria. However the NHS waiting list for female to male gender reassignment is very long.
If you choose the Cadogan Clinic for your FTM top surgery, there are no waiting times and you will get your treatment sooner.
Can you reverse top surgery?
Top surgery is permanent. Your breasts will not grow back after the operation and any reconstructive surgery will not return your chest to the way it looked before. It is therefore of paramount importance that you are 100 percent certain about your goals before taking such major steps to change your body. You must also have realistic expectations about what FTM top surgery can achieve. Book an appointment with one of our expert surgeons here at the Cadogan Clinic who will run through the options with you.
Can I breastfeed after top surgery?
If the milk ducts are removed during top surgery, then you will not be able to breastfeed or chestfeed. If some of these milk-producing ducts are left behind, then it may be possible.
If you are taking testosterone as part of your treatment, then this may affect the production of the hormone needed for lactation.
It is important to note that many factors can affect a person’s ability to breastfeed or chestfeed. A person who has all their milk ducts and is not taking hormones may still find they do not produce enough milk. Formula milk is a perfectly healthy and safe way to feed a baby.
Is top surgery the same as mastectomy?
A mastectomy (breast removal) is just part of FTM top surgery. Liposuction is also used to remove excess fatty tissue to create an improved contour and the nipples will also be repositioned to a more natural-looking position.
Depending on the results of your FTM top surgery, the surgeon may feel that further procedures are necessary. This may include more liposuction, dog-ear surgery to remove puckered skin at the end of the scar line, and possible nipple reconstruction if required.
Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.
About UsBest in Class Facilities
All of our treatments take place at our beautiful boutique premises in Chelsea. We have six consulting rooms and five operating rooms, as well as a dedicated pre and post-operative suite, and a full team of specialist nursing staff.
Our ClinicA Strong Tradition of Innovation
We were founded in 2004 by world renown plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, best known for his pioneering work in the area of liposuction, lasers and microvascular surgery. We continue to collaborate with pioneers in our field.
Our HistoryAt Home in Sloane Street, London
We are proud that our state of the art award-winning clinic is located in one of the best neighbourhoods in the country
Welcome to Sloane StreetClinics Nationwide
We offer surgical consultations in London, Birmingham, Chelmsford and Bristol, and attract international patients from all corners of the globe such as as the USA, the Middle East and Europe.
Get in TouchBefore proceeding with FTM Top Surgery, it is vital to be aware of the potential risks and complications that can occur during any surgical procedure. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you and explain how they may impact your procedure.
Occasionally, a revision surgery is required in the event of a complication or unwanted outcome. This can arise due to factors out of your surgeon’s control. All of Cadogan Clinic’s gender specialist surgeons are highly qualified consultants who have performed FTM Top Surgery many times.
Gender Surgery
We believe in the delivery of excellent outcomes and results, and exceptional levels of service. Our outcomes are natural and long-lasting, and we remain the premier choice for cosmetic surgery treatments in the UK.
2023
Aesthetic Awards
Highly Commended Best Clinic in London
2021
Aesthetics Awards
Highly Commended
2021
My Face My Body
Best Clinic Winner
2020
My Face My Body
Best Clinic Winner
2019
My Face My Body
Winner
2018
My Face My Body
Highly Commended
2018
Aesthetics Awards
Highly Commended
2017
Aesthetics Awards
Winner