Inverted-T Top Surgery in Denver & Golden
Inverted-T top surgery, also known as anchor incision top surgery, is a decisive step for those ready to see their chest reflect who they are. At his Denver and Golden practice, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Steinwald offers this approach with both surgical precision and deep respect for each patient’s journey.
His technique helps create a flatter, more masculine chest, allowing you to move forward with comfort, confidence, and a sense of coming home to yourself.
What Is Inverted-T Top Surgery?
This technique is often recommended for patients with a larger chest or looser skin. Using a T-shaped incision (horizontal under the chest and vertical toward the nipple), Dr. Steinwald removes excess tissue, tightens the skin, and repositions the nipple-areola complex, usually while preserving sensation.
Compared to periareolar or double incision top surgery, the anchor pattern gives more control over chest shaping and skin removal. It’s especially effective when the skin has limited elasticity or when breast volume is significant.
Why Many Patients Choose This Approach
Inverted-T top surgery offers greater precision, which is essential for patients seeking a natural, masculine chest contour. Dr. Steinwald’s technique prioritizes symmetry, nipple preservation, and a smooth, balanced outcome.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Steinwald has refined this approach to maintain nipple connection in more than 90% of cases. His method also helps avoid common issues, such as “dog ears,” and improves long-term scar placement.
Learn more about nipple sensation after top surgery, or explore other chest masculinization options if you’re still comparing techniques.
Benefits of Inverted-T Top Surgery
Patients often choose this technique for both aesthetic and functional reasons:
- Strong contouring results for medium-to-large chests
- High chance of preserving nipple sensation
- Less risk of underarm bulging (“dog ears”)
- Improved chest symmetry
- Results that align with gender goals and body shape
Who Is a Good Candidate?
This surgery may be recommended if you have:
- Larger chest volume or stretched skin
- Weight fluctuations or reduced skin elasticity
- A desire to preserve nipple function and sensation
- Clear goals for masculine chest contouring
Patients should be in stable health, ideally at a consistent weight and nonsmoking. Medical clearance may be required for patients over 40 years old or those with chronic medical conditions. Dr. Steinwald evaluates each case personally to determine the best surgical plan.
Browse additional FTM/N surgery resources to help guide your decision.
What to Expect During Surgery
Inverted-T top surgery is performed under general anesthesia at our private, accredited Apex Surgical Facility. The procedure begins with an anchor-shaped incision—horizontal along the lower chest and vertical toward the nipple. Dr. Steinwald then removes the underlying breast tissue and reshapes the chest wall to create a flatter, more masculine contour.
The nipple-areola complex is carefully resized and repositioned, often while maintaining its connection to nerves and blood vessels to support sensation. Once the contouring is complete, the skin is closed in layers to reduce tension and support optimal healing.
The surgery typically takes two to three hours. In some cases, liposuction may be added to refine the chest edges or address fullness in the underarm area.
What Recovery Looks Like
Most patients go home the same day. A compression vest supports healing, and drainage tubes are removed within a few days. The typical recovery timeline:
- Light activity: within two days
- Desk work: after one to two weeks
- Full exercise: six to eight weeks
Scars soften and fade over time, and the chest shape gradually returns to its natural shape. Dr. Steinwald provides detailed scar care guidance and ongoing support. For tips, visit our post-op recovery guide.
Cost of Inverted-T Top Surgery in Denver
Costs vary depending on anatomy, surgical complexity, and facility use. Quotes are provided during consultation and include all relevant fees. Financing options are available, and we offer support for patients traveling to Denver for surgery.
Real Patient Results
Healing takes time, but the transformation can be life-changing. Most patients achieve a masculine, natural-looking chest with well-placed scars that fade over time. Visit our before-and-after gallery to view examples of real patient outcomes.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Steinwald
Dr. Paul Steinwald is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated over two decades to gender-affirming chest surgery. He is widely recognized for developing a technique that preserves nipple sensation in most cases, while delivering smooth, masculine chest contours with natural symmetry.
His practice is focused entirely on top surgery, allowing for highly specialized care. Procedures are performed at our private, fully accredited Apex Surgical Facility in Denver, using board-certified anesthesiologists and a hand-selected team experienced in affirming care. Patients also appreciate the accessibility, privacy, and follow-up support that make every step of the experience more personal and empowering.
Inverted-T Top Surgery FAQs
Book Your Inverted-T Top Surgery Consultation in Denver
Ready to take the next step in your transition? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Steinwald in Denver or Golden and begin planning your chest reconstruction with a surgeon who understands the journey—and the details.