Gender-Affirming Top Surgery in Louisiana
Gender affirmation procedures help people transition to their self-identified gender, and they can be a deeply meaningful step in someone's journey toward feeling at home in their own body.
Research shows that individuals who choose gender-affirming surgery experience long-term mental health benefits. At Ford Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we're honored to walk alongside our patients through this process with the care and respect it deserves.
Understanding Your Surgical Options
The right procedure depends on your individual goals. For transgender males (assigned female at birth), surgical treatment is breast reduction or mastectomy. For transgender females (assigned male at birth), surgical treatment is breast augmentation with breast implants.
Every person's path is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach here. Dr. Chiasson will take the time to understand what you hope to achieve and build a plan tailored to you.
What to Expect from Surgery
Gender affirming top surgery is performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis, meaning you'll be able to return home the same day. Dr. Chiasson will discuss the specifics of your procedure, recovery, and results during your consultation, so you can move forward feeling informed and confident.
Dr. Chiasson and the entire team at Ford Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery provide compassionate and skilled care to patients requesting these services. More than anything, our goal is for you to feel supported, respected, and comfortable throughout your entire experience with us.
Patient shown one year after gender affirming top surgery with double incision mastectomy and free nipple graft.
Eligibility and Insurance Considerations
Surgical treatment (gender affirming top surgery) may or may not be covered by your medical insurance, and we know the process can feel overwhelming, so we're here to help you navigate it.
Some of the criteria that must be met include a letter from a qualified mental health professional, persistent, well-documented gender dysphoria, and the capacity to make a fully informed decision and consent to treatment. For patients less than 18 years of age, a year of hormonal therapy may be required.
We'll walk you through these requirements clearly and honestly, so you know exactly what to expect at each step.
Ask The Expert
Dr. Kate Chiasson
-
Some scarring is a natural part of top surgery. The good news is that scars fade and soften over time, and I place and care for them thoughtfully to keep them as discreet as possible. During your consultation, I'll show you what to realistically expect based on the technique that's right for your body.
-
Everyone heals at their own pace, so I'll give you a timeline tailored to you. Many of my patients tell me the emotional relief comes almost immediately, even while the body is still healing. Physically, most people ease back into their normal routine over a few weeks, and I'll guide you on when it's safe to return to work, exercise, and everyday activities.
-
That's always my goal. I approach this work as a blend of science and artistry, and a natural, comfortable result that reflects who you are is what we're after, not a "surgical" look. We'll talk through your aesthetic goals in detail so the outcome truly feels like you.
-
That's completely okay, and it's a great reason to come in and talk. Even if you're still early in the process, I'm happy to meet with you, answer your questions, and help you understand the steps ahead so you feel informed and supported. You don't have to have everything figured out before reaching out.
-
I'd encourage anyone to choose a surgeon they feel genuinely comfortable with, because this is a personal journey and the relationship matters. Look for someone board certified, experienced with these procedures, and willing to truly listen to you. More than anything in medicine, I value that trust with my patients.
-
In some cases, yes. Depending on your goals and your health, I can often plan your top surgery alongside procedures like body contouring, liposuction to refine your shape, or pectoral implants for added definition.
Some patients also choose to coordinate the timing of their top surgery with procedures performed by other specialists, such as a hysterectomy, to reduce overall recovery time.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your journey is personal, and it starts with a conversation. Schedule a consultation with our team, where you'll be met with compassion, respect, and skilled care every step of the way.