Treatment Overview
Periareolar Top Surgery (also known as the concentric circle or donut incision technique) is a gender-affirming chest masculinization procedure for FTM and non-binary individuals with small-to-moderate chest sizes and good skin elasticity. Unlike the keyhole method, the periareolar technique allows surgeons to remove breast tissue and also reduce areola size while keeping scars limited to the edges of the areola.
In Korea, plastic surgeons are known for their precision and aesthetic expertise, combining periareolar surgery with liposuction and skin-tightening methods to ensure smooth chest contours. Clinics also emphasize scar minimization, 3D surgical planning, and advanced aftercare, making Korea a top destination for patients seeking a natural, masculine chest with subtle scarring.
Purpose & Benefits
- Chest Masculinization: Flattens the chest by removing breast tissue.
- Areola Resizing: Creates smaller, more masculine areolas.
- Minimal Scarring: Incisions placed at the edge of the areola for discretion.
- Natural Results: Maintains nipple sensation and blood supply in most cases.
- Option for Moderate Chests: Works for slightly larger chests than keyhole surgery.
- Confidence Boost: Provides gender-affirming chest contouring with discreet scars.
Ideal Candidates
- Trans men, non-binary, and gender-diverse patients with small-to-moderate chest size (A–C cup).
- Individuals with good skin elasticity and mild skin excess.
- Patients seeking subtle scars compared to double-incision surgery.
- Adults in good health and stable weight.
- Non-smokers with realistic expectations (may not achieve full flatness in very large chests).
Possible Risks & Complications
- Circular scars around the areola (though they fade over time).
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or soreness.
- Slight “puckering” or wrinkling around the areola during healing.
- Possible residual tissue or contour irregularities in larger chests.
- Rare risks: infection, hematoma, or asymmetry.
Techniques Used
- Concentric Circle Incision: Two circular incisions made around the areola.
- Breast Tissue Removal: Tissue excised through the incision.
- Areola Reduction: Areolas reshaped and reduced for masculine appearance.
- Liposuction (Optional): Used to refine contour and remove fat in chest/underarm.
- Scar-Minimizing Closure: Fine sutures hidden along the areola border.
Recovery & Aftercare
- 1–2 weeks: Swelling and bruising improve.
- 2 weeks: Return to desk work and light activity.
- 3–4 weeks: Light exercise allowed (avoid chest strain).
- 3–6 months: Final chest shape and scars settle.
Aftercare Guidelines:
- Wear a compression vest for 3–4 weeks.
- Avoid chest-intensive exercise until cleared.
- Follow scar-care regimen (silicone sheets, creams, laser if recommended).
- Protect scars from sun exposure to minimize pigmentation.
- Attend follow-ups for healing checks and refinements.
Results & Longevity
- Flat, masculine chest contour with reduced areolas.
- Minimal scarring hidden around the areola borders.
- Permanent removal of breast tissue.
- Preserved nipple sensation in most cases.
- Long-term results with a natural appearance and enhanced confidence.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Consultation & Planning
- Surgeons assess chest size, skin elasticity, and patient goals.
- 3D imaging may be used to plan areola resizing and chest contour.
2. Surgery Day
- Performed under general anesthesia or local with sedation.
- Circular incisions made around areolas; tissue removed.
- Areolas resized and sutured for a masculine proportion.
- Liposuction may be added for smoother contour.
3. Post-Operative Monitoring
- Compression garment applied immediately.
- Most patients discharged the same day.
4. Follow-Up & Refinement
- Scheduled visits at 1 week, 1 month, and 3–6 months.
- Scar-care treatments and possible minor revisions offered if needed.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Surgeons skilled in scar-minimizing periareolar techniques.
- Combination with liposuction and RF tightening for optimal results.
- Affordable pricing compared to the US and Europe.
- International clinics in Seoul with multilingual staff and LGBTQ+ friendly care.
- Premium aftercare programs with scar-care, laser therapy, and 3D follow-ups.
Cost Range
The cost of Periareolar Top Surgery in Korea varies based on chest size, technique, and clinic reputation.
Estimated Pricing:
- Standard Periareolar Top Surgery: USD $7,000 – $9,500
- With Liposuction Refinement: USD $8,500 – $11,000
- Premium Clinics (scar-care + 3D imaging + VIP aftercare): USD $10,000 – $13,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation & pre-op testing: USD $150 – $300
- Compression garments: USD $150 – $300
- Scar-care programs: USD $300 – $800
- Medications & aftercare: USD $200 – $400
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in areola-focused top surgery.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for chest masculinization with liposuction contouring.
- JK Plastic Surgery Center (Seoul): JCI-accredited, premium surgical services.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic (Seoul): Experts in scar refinement and 3D planning.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Leaders in periareolar top surgery with natural results.
