At Advanced Plastic Surgery Center in Arlington, VA, we are proud to offer chest masculinization surgery—also known as “top surgery”—to help transgender men and non-binary individuals achieve a chest appearance that aligns with their gender identity. Our compassionate team is committed to providing personalized, affirming care throughout your journey.
What Is Chest Masculinization?
Chest masculinization is a gender-affirming surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest to create a flatter, more traditionally masculine contour. Techniques may include double incision mastectomy, periareolar, or keyhole approaches, depending on your anatomy and goals.

Am I a Candidate for Chest Masculinization?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Are a transgender man, non-binary, or gender-diverse individual seeking a flatter chest
- Experience chest dysphoria
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about the outcomes
- Are prepared for the recovery process
During your consultation, we will discuss your goals and determine the best surgical approach for you.
Why Choose Advanced Plastic Surgery Center?
Patients choose Advanced Plastic Surgery Center for chest masculinization surgery because of the trusted expertise of Dr. James Economides. As the only provider at our practice who performs this highly specialized procedure, he brings advanced surgical skill, extensive experience, and a deep understanding of gender-affirming care.
Dr. Economides is known for his patient-centered approach, working closely with each individual to understand their goals and create natural-looking, affirming results. With a supportive team and a welcoming environment, Advanced Plastic Surgery Center is a safe and compassionate place to begin your top surgery journey.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
Chest masculinization surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves:
- Removal of breast tissue
- Contouring of the chest wall
- Repositioning or resizing of the nipples and areolae, if desired
The specific technique used will depend on your chest size, skin elasticity, and personal preferences.


What Can I Expect from the Results?
While initial results are visible immediately after surgery, final outcomes will continue to improve over several months as swelling subsides and scars mature. Most patients report high satisfaction with their chest appearance and a significant reduction in gender dysphoria.
What Is the Recovery Time?
Recovery timelines can vary, but generally:
- You may need assistance at home for the first week
- Return to work or school is often possible within 1–2 weeks
- Light activities can resume after 2 weeks
- Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6 weeks
- Scars will continue to fade over 1–2 years
Following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments are crucial for optimal healing.