KC Plastic Surgery
Your Journey

From the first call, to one year after surgery.

A typical surgical journey unfolds over twelve to eighteen months. Below is the rhythm we have refined with hundreds of gender-affirming patients—not a rigid checklist, but a map you can return to.

A patient looking out the window

Reflection, six months post-operative.

The Timeline

Eight stages of care.

  1. 01
    Months -12 to -6

    Optimization & evaluation

    Establish hormone-therapy stability, secure mental-health letter, address tobacco use, optimize medical comorbidities, complete dental care if combined FFS is planned.

  2. 02
    Months -6 to -3

    Consultation & planning

    Initial in-person or virtual consultation, photographic and CT-based planning for FFS, implant sizing for top surgery, written quote and prior-authorization initiation.

  3. 03
    Weeks -8 to -2

    Pre-operative preparation

    Medical clearance with primary care physician, lab work and EKG, hold blood-thinning medications and supplements, finalize home recovery setup, arrange caregiver support.

  4. 04
    Week 0

    Surgery

    Same-day discharge for top surgery; one overnight stay for combined FFS. Begin head-elevated rest, ice therapy, and prescribed medication regimen.

  5. 05
    Weeks 1–2

    Early recovery

    Suture removal at 5–7 days, first post-op visit, restricted activity, sleep upright, manage swelling. Most patients begin returning to virtual work mid-week 2.

  6. 06
    Weeks 3–6

    Mid recovery

    Progressive return to social activity. Light cardio resumed at week 4. Surgical bra continues for top surgery. Major facial swelling subsides; bony contours emerge.

  7. 07
    Months 3–6

    Refinement phase

    Final shape continues to settle. Implants soften and reach final position. Soft-tissue swelling continues to resolve. Photographs taken at standard intervals.

  8. 08
    Months 6–12+

    Long-term follow-up

    Annual follow-up visits. Subtle continued refinement of soft tissues, especially after FFS. Long-term implant surveillance protocol initiated for top surgery.