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Is it normal to have swelling exactly 2 weeks post FTM top surgery (bilateral mastectomy)? (photos)

I have swelling on the ends of my incisions. I don't know if it's just the stitches that have not dissolved yet or the start of "dog ears." I know that if it is an issue, my surgeon will fix it for free because it would be covered as part of the surgery but, I'm still worried. I just want everything to heal flat.

Doctor Answers 5

Swelling two weeks Post FTM surgery

July 1st, 2016
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Thank you for your question and photos. What you are seeing is very normal at this stage of healing. It is not uncommon to have swelling along the incision line. This is due to reaction to the suture as well as swelling from the surgery itself. I believe you will get an excellent r result. I tell my patients that it will take up to three – six months to see the final results. It takes this long for postoperative swelling and inflammation to resolve. Certainly discuss your concerns with your surgeon, but I believe that you have a very good early result and will be pleased with your outcome. Best regards.
Anthony Deboni, MD


Syracuse Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 32 reviews

Swelling 2 Weeks Post FTM Top Surgery

April 28th, 2017
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Swelling a few weeks after your surgery is not unusual. In fact,  #swelling is normal and usually increases slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However, it may take 6-9 weeks to disappear completely. A #compression garment, if prescribed by your surgeon, will help to reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly you will #heal. It can also assist in the retraction of the skin. If you have any concerns about #healing, its best to ask questions of your surgeon or their nursing staff. 

Web reference: http://www.horowitzmd.com/plastic-surgery-procedures-newport-beach/ftm-top-surgery/

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS
Orange County Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 110 reviews

FTM top surgery

January 10th, 2017
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You are still very swollen.  This looks like normal healing but check with your surgeon to be sure. Be sure to visit a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in top surgery.

Douglas M. Senderoff, MD, FACS

Douglas M. Senderoff, MD, FACS
New York Plastic Surgeon
4.5 out of 5 stars 32 reviews

Is it normal to have swelling exactly 2 weeks post FTM top surgery

July 18th, 2016
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It is normal to have some degree of swelling two weeks after any type of surgery.  Based on your photos, it appears as though you have a normal amount of swelling.  If you have any concerns, however, you should schedule an appointment to see your plastic surgeon.  Best wishes. 

Web reference: http://www.josefhadeedmd.com/gender-reassignment-surgery/

Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS

Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 11 reviews

Post operative swelling

July 5th, 2016
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Swelling is a very normal step in the healing process. In fact, lack of swelling is very rare and is a signal for poor healing. Most of the swelling goes away within 6 weeks, although a small amount stays for up to a year.

Web reference: http://www.gaplasticsurg.com

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 26 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.