One of the most defining parts of our specialist in mastectomy, Top Surgery in trans men, is how closely he follows every patient through their healing. Dr. R Herrero insists on staying local not because complications are expected, but because he wants full control over the details determining the final result, specially scars and areola placement.
Emotional support matters
“Please come with a loved one. There´s a large sofa bed for your companion in your private room at the hospital and I will go to speak with whoever comes with you after surgery to explain how everything went”.
Why staying local matters
Specialist guidance consistently advises to stay in Spain for at least 12-15 days. The early healing window defines scar behavior, areola adhesion, and swelling response.
“I want you nearby for 12-15 days because I want to control stitches, swelling, and areola healing myself. I don´t want any surprises¨.
For our specialist, the areola is not simply a finishing touch, it´s a precision step he monitors personally from day 1. This includes shape, pigmentation, stitch removal and scar evolution.
How we help: We will send you our ‘travel plan’ with closest accommodation walking distance from our specialist´s office and HC Miraflores Hospital, private room pictures, surgery room and where to eat the best Spanish omelet to have the best experience.
Your first 12 days after Top Surgery
Patients often report that healing is lighter, faster, and less restrictive than expected.
Scar reality: Recovery takes a full year
1 year: Full scar maturation (even if scar looks ‘perfect’ early, true fading takes 12 months).
“You might see the wound looking perfect and aligned, but that is not the scar. The scar forms over 1 year”.
This means:
• Sun protection is non-negotiable
• Compression matters longer than Instagram expects
Why scar attention is so important?
Patients often assume quick healing means finished healing. Dr. R. Herrero is careful to correct that because younger tissue tends to produce a more intense scar response, he emphasizes repetitive follow up and strict after care.
“I can be very happy about surgery, but for me it´s an obsession: scars ,and young patients scar harder, so we must be very aware and cautious.”
Interesting facts to consider
- Healing is faster than you may expect when inflammation is controlled.
- Overweight patients may experience more healing issues. Thin patients generally see cleaner results.
- Pressure band recommended 4-5 weeks depending on swelling
Written by the Safe Rebirth Care Team, specialists in gender-affirming surgery advocacy, coordination and holistic patient support across Spain.
What Sets Safe Rebirth Apart
At Safe Rebirth, we don’t just coordinate surgeries, we provide a fully personalized, compassionate experience from start to finish. We prioritize your emotional and physical well-being, offering personalized travel guides. With no gatekeeping, no unnecessary reports, and inclusive support before, during, and after surgery, Safe Rebirth ensures your journey is not only safe but also stress-free and empowering.
