Finding the Right Surgeon: Hayden’s Search for the Best Fit
For many transgender and non-binary individuals, the decision to undergo FTM top surgery is a deeply personal and transformative milestone. For Hayden Smith, that journey began at 18 years old when he started researching surgeons. Though he didn’t yet have the funds for surgery, he was determined to find the right provider who aligned with his needs, approach, and expectations.
“I talked to four or five different surgeons,” Hayden recalls. “Some of them just had this arrogant energy, like they were talking at me instead of to me. Dr. Crane was different—he was down-to-earth, straight to the point, and actually took the time to answer my questions. I felt comfortable with him immediately.”
Like many patients, Hayden initially hoped he might qualify for a keyhole incision, a technique that minimizes scarring. However, Dr. Crane explained that based on Hayden’s anatomy, a double incision approach would provide the best result. “Other surgeons made me feel stupid for even asking,” Hayden says, “but Dr. Crane took the time to explain why certain techniques work for different bodies. That made all the difference.”
The Decision to Travel for Surgery
At the time of his surgery, Hayden was living in Clearwater, Florida, about a four-hour drive from Inspire Aesthetics, with offices in both Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale. While some patients choose to travel out of state, Hayden felt fortunate to find a highly skilled surgeon within driving distance.
“I could have stayed in Clearwater, but none of the local surgeons’ results stood out to me. I wanted someone whose work looked natural and who I trusted,” he explains. “The drive was a lot, but totally worth it.”
To make the experience smoother, Hayden opted to stay in an Airbnb for the first week post-op. “I wanted to be in a house rather than a hotel so I could be comfortable, and my wife, best friend, and her boyfriend were with me. I made sure they had a pool so they could have some fun while I recovered!”
Consultation & Preparation
Hayden had his first consultation with Dr. Crane in October 2022. Although he ultimately had to delay surgery for personal reasons, Inspire Aesthetics honored his original quoted price when he was able to reschedule in 2024.
Leading up to surgery, he mainly communicated with Erika, Dr. Crane’s patient coordinator. “She was great—she helped me through the pre-op process, especially when I had to redo my bloodwork. I had a million questions, and neither she nor Dr. Crane ever made me feel like a burden.”
One of Hayden’s biggest post-op tips? Stock up on extra supplies. “I ended up needing a lot more bandages than I was given. Now, I always tell others to have extra on hand—it’s better to be over-prepared.”
Surgery Day: Facing Fears & Finding Relief
On the morning of his surgery, Hayden arrived at Inspire Aesthetics bright and early. Since he wasn’t allowed to eat beforehand, he was relieved to have the first surgery of the day. Despite the typical pre-surgery jitters, he felt reassured by the team’s professionalism.
“The only hiccup was getting the IV in—I have tricky veins, and I wasn’t allowed to drink water before surgery, so they had a tough time. I started to panic, but the nurses calmed me down.”
Once he was under anesthesia, the procedure went smoothly. “I woke up super out of it, but the staff was great. Dr. Crane came by to check on me, and by the next day at my post-op appointment, I was already feeling better.”
Recovery: The Reality of Healing
Recovery after top surgery can be challenging, and for Hayden, the hardest part was dealing with post-op drains. “I was terrified of getting the drains taken out, but it ended up not being painful at all. The nurse rubbed my leg to distract me, and it worked.”
As for pain management, Hayden found that muscle relaxers helped more than painkillers. “I stopped taking pain meds by day three and just stuck with muscle relaxers. The drains were way worse than any actual pain from surgery, but it was manageable.”
Life After Surgery: A Newfound Confidence
Now six months post-op, Hayden says the results have been life-changing. “It was one of the best days of my life. I can get out of the shower and just throw on a shirt. That might sound small, but it’s everything.”
He also notes that surgery has helped him feel more comfortable in his profession. “I work in aviation mechanics, and being able to pass more easily has taken a huge weight off my shoulders.”
Words of Advice for Future Patients
For those considering top surgery, Hayden has some key takeaways:
- Choose your surgeon wisely. “Don’t just go for the cheapest option—your results will show it.”
- Stock up on supplies. “Get extra bandages, a pregnancy pillow for support, and bathing wipes.”
- Don’t rush recovery. “Take it easy, and don’t push yourself too soon.”
Would he recommend Dr. Crane? “A thousand times over. He’s talented, down-to-earth, and genuinely cares. I’ll keep recommending him forever.”
Dr. Crane’s Perspective: A Commitment to Transformative Care
Dr. Crane, who has been specializing in gender-affirming procedures for years, understands the profound impact of top surgery. “As soon as the garment comes off, patients’ eyes light up. It’s such an emotional moment—many tear up because it’s something they’ve wanted for so long.”
He emphasizes the importance of communication and patient-centered care. “I schedule enough time for every consult so no one feels rushed. I want patients to feel safe, heard, and fully informed about their options.”
When asked what advice he would give to those unsure about taking the next step, his response is simple: “Set up a consultation. The more you know, the less there is to fear.”
If you’re considering FTM top surgery and want to learn more about your options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Crane at Inspire Aesthetics today. You deserve to feel at home in your body, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
