Top Surgery

Pride in Every Affirmation

Compassionate, Gender-Affirming Care in New York

Top surgery is a life-changing experience for many transgender and non-binary patients. Dr. Elizabeth Kiwanuka provides compassionate, specialized care to those looking to align their bodies with their gender identity. Dr. Kiwanuka pioneered the Enhanced Recovery After Top Surgery protocol to optimize healing, ensuring the highest standard of care in alignment with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines.

Am I a Good Candidate for Top Surgery?

The WPATH Standards of Care requirements for having non-binary or female-to-male top surgery include the following:

Persistent and well-documented gender dysphoria
Ability to make an informed decision and consent to treatment
Meet the age of majority in your country (otherwise, follow guidelines for children and adolescents)
Medical or mental health concerns must be reasonably well-controlled
Hormone supplementation is not required

Rapid Recovery Top Surgery in New York

Dr. Kiwanuka meticulously crafted the Enhanced Recovery After Top Surgery protocol to enhance the post-operative journey for top surgery patients. This patient-centered, evidence-based approach minimizes tissue damage and incorporates innovative strategies such as no drains, no narcotics, and advanced scar management. Enhanced Recovery After Top Surgery is designed to optimize healing, minimize pain, and expedite the return to daily activities, all while reducing the risk of complications.

No Drains

Traditional top surgery procedures often require the use of surgical drains to prevent fluid accumulation in the chest area. During top surgery, a space can be created between the chest wall and the overlying tissues, which may fill with fluid during the healing process. Drains are typically placed to remove this fluid and prevent the formation of a seroma, an uncomfortable swelling caused by fluid accumulation. Dr. Kiwanuka has adopted a no-drain technique as part of the Enhanced Recovery After Top Surgery protocol. Instead of relying on drains, her surgical approach reduces the potential for fluid buildup by suturing the tissues together to promote natural healing. Dr. Kiwanuka uses specialized internal sutures that effectively close off the space where fluid could collect, eliminating the risk of seroma formation. These absorbable sutures dissolve naturally over time, leaving no trace. This innovative approach streamlines the recovery process, allowing for increased comfort post-surgery.

No Narcotics

Dr. Kiwanuka has implemented specialized techniques to minimize post-operative pain for top surgery patients. These techniques reduce tissue trauma and include the administration of a long-lasting local block to ensure a pain-free recovery. Dr. Kiwanuka's approach prioritizes a narcotic-free pain management protocol, favoring safer, non-addictive alternatives that enhance comfort without the side effects of traditional pain medications.

Advanced Scar Care

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after gender-affirming top surgery. Dr. Kiwanuka's "Advanced Scar Care" program combines scar minimization surgical techniques with active scar management post-op. Dr. Kiwanuka is a distinguished alumna of the prestigious Laboratory of Gene Transfer and Tissue Repair at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston. With a Ph.D. in wound healing and tissue engineering, Dr. Kiwanuka’s quest for excellence has made her a leader in scar treatment and tissue recovery.

Initial Consultation Process

The initial consultation with Dr. Kiwanuka is crucial in your top surgery process. She will discuss your medical history, expectations, and surgical options during this appointment. This is also the opportunity to clarify your questions or concerns. Next, Dr. K will examine your chest to explore the most suitable technique for your body type. She may also take photographs for preoperative planning and documentation. Finally, our team will provide a quote and a detailed procedure plan. This will include information on anesthesia, preoperative preparations, and postoperative care. Remember, the initial consultation is your opportunity to establish a trusting and open relationship with Dr. Kiwanuka. Being honest and transparent about your expectations and concerns creates an optimal surgical experience.

Why Choose Dr. Kiwanuka for Top Surgery in New York?

Elizabeth Kiwanuka, M.D., Ph.D., offers an impressive academic background, including training at renowned institutions such as Harvard Medical School and Brown University, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in plastic surgery. Dr. Kiwanuka is dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic care, ensuring that each patient receives the highest quality gender-affirming treatment tailored to their individual needs.

Dr. Kiwanuka empowers her clients by listening to and understanding their unique goals and preferences. She emphasizes patient education, ensuring you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your surgery. Additionally, Dr. Kiwanuka stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in top surgery, using cutting-edge techniques and equipment to ensure optimal results.

In choosing Dr. Kiwanuka and the Core Aesthetics team for your top surgery in New York, you can trust that you’re placing your care in the hands of a dedicated, skilled professional. Contact our New York office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you align your body with your true self.