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+--- Forum: FTM Top Surgery (https://www.ftmsurgery.net/forums/f-ftm-top-surgery)
+--- Thread: Winston Salem NC (/t-winston-salem-nc)
Winston Salem NC - CrayolaViolence - 06-25-2015
I am looking for a Dr. in or near the Winston Salem NC that could do female to male top surgery or at least flatten my chest as much as possible so I can pass for male when wearing a shirt. Currently I am a DD. I weight lift but I am built wide in the hips so passing will be difficult because of that alone.
I have seen a couple of surgeons for free consults. One felt a key hole surgery would work, however, I don't see how with my breast shape and size (from what I've read) this surgery would be the best choice for me. The other basically wanted to do a mastectomy and nipple transplant but he was so rushed (spoke with him all of 5 minutes) that I didn't get a chance to ask questions or anything. I just felt like I was basically thrown in and out.
I'm also a bit shocked at the overall cost of the surgery quotes I have been given. (8500 on average) without free revisions. When asked about having my hips reduced too while having my chest done I was told that it was too risky and would have to be a separate surgery, yet I see where Dr. Garramone in FL does this when he does the top surgery to keep cost down. I guess at this point I am confused as to what is best, and who knows what they are doing. I had always been under the impression that Dr. Garramone was the surgeon to go to but I've noticed a string of recent posts/complaints regarding his staff and care. I also know complaints tend to get aired more than positives but still, this concerns me and making a trip down to Fl for a week would add significant cost to the overall surgery.
Anyhow, I am looking for advice I guess, on whether there is someone within the Winston Salem NC area who is competent or if I should plan on traveling.
Thanks
RE: Winston Salem NC - Joshua - 07-03-2015
Dr. Eric Emerson in Gastonia: http://www.transhealthcare.org/eric-emerson/
Keyhole is typically reserved for small chested men. Double incision is likely the best option for you. http://www.topsurgery.net/procedures/double-incision-top-surgery.htm
Feel free to be selective in your choice of surgeons. There are many, and you should not have to feel rushed or unimportant. If you do, look for another surgeon. You are hiring one of these people. For a lot of money! You don't have to be best friends, but you do want to feel comfortable.
$8500 is on the higher side but still within the average. http://www.topsurgery.net/costs/
Body Sculpting at the same time as Top Surgery is an option. Some surgeons won't do it because of the combined time under anesthesia, but others are doing Top Surgery in less than 2 hours and can also perform some sculpting.
Definitely look at your local options first. You have quality surgeons near home, and there's probably no need to travel out of state. (I found travel after surgery difficult.)
Hope this helps!