The closing of a surgical incision or a wound by sutures (stitches) to hasten the healing process.
Textured
Type of breast implant in which the outer surface, or shell, is rough and/or irregular instead of smooth.
Tissue expander
Inflatable implant. It is inserted under the skin and tissue that needs to be expanded (e.g., chest skin post-mastectomy). Once expanded over a several month period, a breast implant replaces the expander.
Transition
The period of time between when the individual first starts the sex-reassignment procedure and when the individual is living totally as a member of the opposite sex.
Transsexual (TS)
A person who feels a consistent and overwhelming desire to transition and fulfill their lives as members of the opposite gender. Most transsexuals actively desire and complete Sexual-Reassignment Surgery.
TUBA or transumbilical
Of or relating to the umbilicus (belly button). Indicates the location of one of the possible incisions for breast enlargement, namely within or through the umbilicus. Sometimes called "transumbilical." The method of transumbilical breast augmentation is often referred to as the "TUBA" method
Tummy Tuck
The surgery of the tummy tuck involves cutting and drawing together with stitches or staples at least one of the three following layers of the "tummy": skin, subcutaneous fat, and/or muscle. A tummy tuck that only involves skin and fat is defined here as a "surface tuck" and a tummy tuck that involves cutting and tightening the muscle (or its sheath or other associated components) is a "deep tuck."
Ultrasound
Is the use of electronic waves to detect abnormalities including rupture of breast implants.
Urethra
The tube through which urine passes out of the body; in males, it is also the tube through which semen is discharged.
Vaginoplasty
Involves removing the testicles and the inside of the penis and then inverting the penis skin to create a vagina.
