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Surgical Care Guided by Expertise, Sensitivity, and Individual Goals

Gold Coast Plastic Surgery offers MTF top surgery as part of our commitment to providing thoughtful, evidence-informed, and patient-centered gender-affirming care. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert J. Lukavsky brings advanced training in breast surgery, meticulous technique, and a compassionate, collaborative approach to each procedure. Every surgical plan is developed around your unique anatomy, goals, and long-term comfort—never a one-size-fits-all model—ensuring results that feel authentically yours.

What Is MTF Top Surgery?

MTF (male-to-female) top surgery, also known as chest feminization surgery, is a gender-affirming procedure designed to create a softer, more traditionally feminine chest contour.

The procedure is most commonly performed using breast augmentation, typically with silicone or saline implants, to add volume, shape, and projection.

During planning, Dr. Lukavsky considers several important factors, including:

  • Chest width and overall body proportions
  • Skin elasticity and tissue characteristics
  • Existing breast development, if any
  • History and duration of hormone therapy
  • Desired breast size, shape, and aesthetic goals

Based on these considerations, technical decisions are made, such as:

  • Implant type (silicone or saline)
  • Implant placement (subglandular or submuscular)
  • Incision location (inframammary, periareolar, or axillary, when appropriate)

These details are carefully selected to achieve natural-looking results that feel balanced and harmonize seamlessly with the rest of the body.

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Benefits of MTF Top Surgery

  • A chest appearance that aligns more closely with your gender identity
  • Reduction of chest-related gender dysphoria
  • Enhanced comfort and confidence in clothing and social settings
  • Improved body proportion and silhouette
  • Long-lasting aesthetic results
  • Positive effects on overall quality of life and self-image
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Are You a Good Candidate for MTF Top Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for MTF top surgery in Chicago if you:

  • Experience persistent chest-related gender dysphoria
  • Are in generally good physical health
  • Are a non-smoker or willing to stop nicotine use before and after surgery
  • Have stable weight and realistic expectations regarding breast size and shape
  • Are psychologically prepared for surgery and recovery
  • Have the ability to provide informed consent
  • Have support available during early recovery
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Why Choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery for MTF Top Surgery?

Choosing a surgeon for MTF top surgery is a deeply personal decision. At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, your care is led by Dr. Robert J. Lukavsky, whose advanced expertise in breast surgery enables precise implant selection, meticulous pocket creation, and refined aesthetic outcomes. All procedures are performed in our AAAASF-accredited onsite surgical facility, offering privacy, safety, and discretion.

Our patient-first philosophy emphasizes education, shared decision-making, and attentive follow-up. From consultation through recovery, our experienced team provides responsive, respectful care in a supportive environment designed to honor both the technical and emotional importance of gender-affirming surgery.

Top Surgery Patient Testimonials

Dr. Lukavsky and the rest of the staff at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery truly care about their patients and their actions prove it.

I received gender-affirming top surgery from Dr. Lukavsky in mid-May and am extremely happy with both the results and the experience as a whole. There are many surgeons that offer top surgery in Chicago, but I would highly recommend anyone considering this to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lukavsky. I have never before had such easy communication and undivided attention in a healthcare setting. Appointments never felt rushed (and always started on time) and Dr. L went out of his way to ensure all questions were answered. Dr. L explained the pros and cons of different surgical techniques and made space for me to choose what felt right for myself. After surgery, Dr. L called multiple times to check in, he was incredibly easy to get in contact with and would call back immediately after receiving a text message to answer any questions. This alone alleviated so much of my stress during my recovery. I am incredibly happy with the results so far look forward to seeing the final outcome once fully healed. Dr. L and the rest of the staff at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery truly care about their patients and their actions prove it. I would highly recommend anyone planning on scheduling top surgery, or other plastic surgery, to choose Dr. Lukavsky.

J.D.

I'm so grateful for such a positive experience, and would I would highly recommend them to anyone seeking ftm top surgery!!

Dr. Lukavsky is such a warm and clearly knowledgeable surgeon, as was his entire team. Everyone I came into contact with at Gold Coast was incredibly kind and welcoming. This being my first major surgery, and a gender-affirming one at that, I could not have asked for a better team to work with pre-op and post-op. Dr. Lukavsky is personable, and contacted me directly post-op to check in. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does, and cares about his patients! Sarah, Tanis, and Dr. Lukavsky were all extremely easy to contact, and super helpful and reassuring when I did so. I'm so grateful for such a positive experience, and would I would highly recommend them to anyone seeking ftm top surgery!!

S.V.

Please do yourselves a favor and book your consultation ASAP.

Dr. Lukavsky is beyond 5 Stars AMAZING!! He delivers exceptional patient care and has extensive expertise in the field. There is no doubt, that he is passionate about what he does; he executed the job, and it was well done. I am beyond thankful for the entire staff and Dr. L, because they made everything so easy from beginning to end. If you are doubting getting work done, DON’T. Please do yourselves a favor and book your consultation ASAP. You have nothing but to gain from it. They are highly skilled and professional. I loved my results! THANK YOU!!!!!

A.C.

Dr. Lukavsky has such a genuine care for his patients that is truly needed when you are considering surgery.

Dr. Lukavsky and his team at GCPS exceeded my expectations in every way. The entire process from consult, to surgery, to recovery has gone smooth, and I feel supported every step of the way. Dr. L is extremely knowledgeable in his craft, but takes his time to carefully explain the process/nuances, and seeks to reconfirm your understanding to always ensure transparency. I was prepared with so much info ahead of time which I really appreciated. Dr. L has such a genuine care for his patients that is truly needed when you are considering surgery. I am so happy with my results! Tanis and Sarah are so helpful and efficient.

M.M.

You’ll be so happy with the results and service you get!

Gold Coast PS has been amazing from my first consultation with Dr. Moynihan. He’s so professional yet personable at the same time. He treats you like family and he wouldn’t do anything to put you in harms way or do anything you’re not comfortable with. His staff also deserves the highest praises. They are the sweetest people with the best bed side manner. They STILL check up on me and tell me about specials going on at GCPS. Huge shout out to Nicole and Susan for all the help and answering all of my questions. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with Gold Coast! You’ll be so happy with the results and service you get!

M.J.

I would definitely recommend anyone interested to check out Gold Coast Plastic Surgery!

I had a great experience with Dr. Moynihan and his team! From communicating with team members about setting up a consultation, to talking through what the procedure would entail and getting mock up photos created, I was very excited to move forward with my surgery. All of the instructions throughout the process were explained very clearly so I never felt like I was missing information. Surgery itself went great, the facility is very well organized and you have a whole team (nurses, the doctor and anesthesiologist) meeting with you beforehand to talk through as much information as you would like. Recovery went just as I had expected and was explained to me, and I love my results. I would definitely recommend anyone interested to check out Gold Coast Plastic Surgery!

N.R.

Best part about my experience is the results are natural and helps achieve the best version of myself.

Dr. Moynihan is an amazing doctor. At first I felt uncomfortable talking about my insecurities and how I felt but sitting down with the Dr. I felt very good opening up to him with my issues and he listens and cares. Any concerns I had whether it is big/small he took his time with me to understand my situation and then come up with a plan to help achieve the results I desire. Best part about my experience is the results are natural and helps achieve the best version of myself. Would definitely recommend!

A.T.

What to Expect Before, During, and After MTF Top Surgery

Consultation

  • Dr. Lukavsky will discuss your goals, review implant options, explain incision choices, and outline expected outcomes
  • Pricing is individualized based on implant type and surgical complexity
  • We do not currently accept insurance; financing options may be available

Procedure

  • Surgery is performed under general anesthesia
  • Breast implants are placed using the selected incision approach
  • Implants may be positioned above or below the chest muscle, depending on anatomy and goals
  • Incisions are closed with meticulous attention to scar placement

Recovery and Results

  • Most patients return to light activities within 1–2 weeks
  • Swelling and implant settling occur gradually over several weeks
  • Strenuous activity is restricted for approximately 4–6 weeks
  • Breast shape continues to refine as healing progresses
  • Final results are typically appreciated within several months
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We’re Honored to Be Part of Your Transformation

Your identity is worthy of thoughtful, elevated care, delivered with expert precision. Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Robert Lukavsky at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery to explore MTF top surgery.

FAQs

How does prior hormone therapy affect MTF top surgery results?

Will implants look natural on a wider chest frame?

Can fat grafting be used instead of implants?

Will I need to replace my breast implants in the future?

What kind of bra support is required after surgery?

How soon can I sleep on my side or stomach after surgery?

Will MTF top surgery affect chest sensitivity?

What are the risks and possible side effects of MTF top surgery?

How discreet is the process, from consultation to recovery?

What if my aesthetic goals change over time?

How does prior hormone therapy affect MTF top surgery results?

Hormone therapy can influence skin quality and existing breast development, which may affect implant selection and surgical planning. However, MTF top surgery can be performed whether or not you have undergone hormone therapy. Dr. Lukavsky takes into account your individual history when creating a personalized surgical plan.

Will implants look natural on a wider chest frame?

Yes. Achieving natural-looking results on a wider chest requires careful implant selection, pocket creation, and proportional planning. Dr. Lukavsky uses his expertise in breast surgery to select implant dimensions that complement chest width and overall body proportions, avoiding an artificial or overly narrow appearance.

Can fat grafting be used instead of implants?

Fat grafting alone typically does not provide enough volume to achieve the desired feminization for most patients. In select cases, fat grafting may be used as an adjunct to implants or for subtle contour refinement; however, implants remain the most reliable option for achieving consistent, lasting results.

Will I need to replace my breast implants in the future?

Breast implants are long-lasting but not considered lifetime devices. Many patients enjoy their results for many years without issue, though future implant replacement or revision may be needed due to aging, personal preference, or implant-related changes. Routine follow-up and monitoring are important.

What kind of bra support is required after surgery?

You will be advised to wear a supportive surgical or sports-style bra during early recovery to minimize swelling and support healing tissues. Underwire bras are typically avoided for several weeks. Specific recommendations are provided based on your procedure and the progress of your healing.

How soon can I sleep on my side or stomach after surgery?

Most patients are advised to sleep on their backs for the first few weeks following surgery. Side sleeping may be resumed gradually once swelling decreases and comfort allows. Stomach sleeping is usually postponed for a longer period to protect implant positioning and incision healing.

Will MTF top surgery affect chest sensitivity?

Temporary changes in nipple or chest skin sensation are common after breast augmentation. Sensation often improves as healing progresses, though some patients may experience longer-lasting changes. The likelihood varies based on incision type, implant placement, and individual healing response.

What are the risks and possible side effects of MTF top surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, MTF top surgery carries potential risks. These may include infection, bleeding, capsular contracture, implant malposition, changes in sensation, asymmetry, scarring, or the need for future revision surgery. Serious complications are uncommon when surgery is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. All risks are thoroughly reviewed during the consultation.

How discreet is the process, from consultation to recovery?

Discretion is a priority at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery. Consultations are private, procedures are performed in an on-site accredited facility, and care is delivered with respect and confidentiality at every stage. Many patients value the calm, supportive environment throughout their experience.

What if my aesthetic goals change over time?

It’s not uncommon for aesthetic preferences to evolve. If future refinements or revisions are desired, options can be discussed once healing is complete and tissues have stabilized. Dr. Lukavsky prioritizes long-term satisfaction and open communication as part of ongoing care.

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