At What Age Can You Get Top Surgery?
If you’re a young adult thinking ahead to the next stage of your transgender transformation, you might already be researching top surgery and wondering how old you need to be to qualify. Whether you’re a transgender male (FTM) ready to remove chest tissue or a transgender female (MTF) seeking breast augmentation, knowing the age requirements can help you plan your surgery timeline, manage your expectations, and avoid surprises. In this blog, we’ll give you an overview of what you need to know about age requirements for top surgery and resources to keep you informed.
Table of Contents
- Do I Have to Be 18 to Get Top Surgery?
- What Is the Criteria to Get Gender Affirming Care If I’m a Minor?
- Which States Restrict Gender Affirming Care for Minors?
- Resources for Young Adults Seeking Top Surgery
- Learn More About Top Surgery Requirements in Miami
Do I Have to Be 18 to Get Top Surgery?
In many cases, you do need to be 18 to get top surgery without parental consent, but the rules vary according to several factors. Some surgeons set their own age minimums, and state and local laws can either restrict or allow minors to receive gender affirming care, depending on certain circumstances. At Restore Medical, we abide by state laws and can perform consultations and surgeries on those who have turned 18 years of age.
How Old Do I Have to Be for FTM Top Surgery?
For most people assigned female at birth who want to undergo transmasculine top surgery, the standard minimum age is 18. However, some surgeons will perform the procedure on patients as young as 16 or 17, as long as they have documented parental or guardian consent and mental health support letters as outlined in the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care. In states where gender affirming care for minors is allowed, meeting specific medical and psychological criteria is often just as important as meeting the age requirement.
How Old Do I Have to Be for MTF Top Surgery?
For transfeminine patients assigned male at birth, transfeminine top surgery is also most commonly available starting at age 18 without a guardian’s consent. As with FTM surgery, some providers may operate on younger patients with parental consent and following WPATH guidelines if state law permits it. Many surgeons also recommend or require that you be on feminizing hormone therapy for at least 12 months before undergoing top surgery to allow natural breast tissue growth to contribute to better surgical outcomes. While this is helpful, Dr. Whitehead does not feel this is absolutely necessary for excellent results and therefore does not require it.
What Is the Criteria to Get Gender Affirming Care if I’m a Minor?
If you’re under 18 and live in a state that allows gender affirming surgery for minors, you’ll need to meet specific criteria in accordance with the WPATH Standards of Care. This may include:
- Consent from a parent or guardian for both the evaluation process and the surgery itself
- A mental health evaluation confirming that you have “persistent, well-documented gender dysphoria,” as well as a surgical readiness letter from a mental health provider
- Informed consent, meaning that you can demonstrate that you understand the benefits and risks of top surgery, as well as have realistic expectations for the outcomes
- An understanding of the impact that top surgery can have on both emotional and physical well-being, and ensuring you have support systems in place
These guidelines are designed to ensure your decision to undergo top surgery is safe for both your mental and physical health, is well-considered, and is in line with your long-term gender transition goals.
Which States Restrict Gender Affirming Care for Minors?
Over the past few years, several U.S. states have passed laws restricting or banning gender affirming care for minors, including top surgery. This means that even if your surgeon is willing and your parents consent, you may be unable to have top surgery in your state until you turn 18. Other states allow minors to undergo surgery, as long as they have parental consent and the appropriate medical documentation. Laws are changing rapidly in the current climate, so it’s essential to check your state’s current legislation and, if necessary, explore options for top surgery in states with more supportive policies.
Resources for Young Adults Seeking Top Surgery
If you’re starting your top surgery journey, here are a few resources that can help you better understand the regulations and how to find support during your transition:
The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH): WPATH offers clinical guidelines for best practices around gender affirming care and can help you understand the requirements to qualify for top surgery.
Trans-friendly healthcare provider directories: Websites like TransHealthCare.org or local LGBTQ+ centers can connect you with surgeons experienced in transgender care. At Restore Medical Center, Dr. John Whitehead and Dr. Alain Ramirez are both highly skilled and experienced in gender affirming care.
Support groups and online communities: The Trevor Project, PFLAG, and QueerDoc provide resources and online groups for transgender people and their supporters.
Learn More About Top Surgery Requirements in Miami
When it comes to the right age for top surgery, the answer isn’t as simple as one number. Several factors influence whether you’re ready for the next step in your transgender journey, and while it can often seem confusing or overwhelming, the experts at Restore Medical Center are here to help. Dr. Whitehead, Dr. Ramirez, and their entire staff will guide you through the process with compassion and care from start to finish, from hormone therapy to navigating insurance and everything in between. To schedule a consultation, contact our office today at (305) 865-2000 or complete the online contact form.