The Transgender Dictionary
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Keyhole

(also: chest reconstruction, mammaplasty, mastectomy, top surgery)

Table of Contents

Introduction

Keyhole is a somewhat common varient of a mastectomy. This is a procedure typically sought out by transgender men (and some nonbinary folks) who experience gender dysphoria regarding having breasts. Only your surgeon can tell you if you qualify for keyhole, however the requirements for this surgery are stricter than those for any other varient, as no excess skin is removed.

General Information

As the name suggests, keyhole top surgery is defined by a small incision being made under or across the lower border of the areola aka a "keyhole" incision. The undesired tissue can be removed via the incision, however, this typically leaves the patient with some excess skin. This variant is ideal for patients with smaller chests, and high skin elasticity.

Unlike with some other types of top surgery, the nipple is not removed and the nipple stalk is not severed. This preserves nipple nerve sensation.