Traditional top surgery offers one outcome: a masculine chest. But what if you're non-binary and want a flat, neutral appearance without masculine definition? What if you want something in between?
Dr. Cornélio's approach recognizes that your chest should reflect your identity—not a one-size-fits-all standard. That's why the 3D Sculpting Protocol™ includes three distinct outcome pathways, each designed to align with different aesthetic goals and gender expressions.
Let's explore each pathway so you can identify which matches your vision.
The Three Pathways
Each pathway uses the same surgical foundation—the 3D Sculpting Protocol™—but adjusts the degree of definition, projection, and contouring to create results that match your identity and aesthetic preferences.
Pathway 1: Masculine
Defined contour with strong central line and marked lateral borders
This pathway creates a chest that looks naturally masculine with visible pectoral definition, clear lateral borders, and athletic contours.
Key Features:
- Prominent pectoral definition with visible muscle contours
- Clear lateral chest borders that define where chest ends
- Strong central midline shadow between pectorals
- Athletic masculine appearance with dynamic movement
Best for:
Transmasculine individuals seeking strong passability and athletic chest definition. If you want a chest that helps you pass consistently as male and looks like you work out, this pathway is for you.
Patient Perspective:
"Dr. Cornélio gave me the masculine chest I always dreamed of. The definition is incredible—people think I work out constantly. I finally feel like myself." — Marcus, 28, California
Pathway 2: Neutral
Soft contour with minimal projection and centered areolas
This pathway creates a completely flat, androgynous chest without masculine definition—perfect for non-binary individuals seeking neutrality.
Key Features:
- Flat, androgynous appearance without gendered cues
- Subtle or no pectoral definition
- Minimal projection for gender-neutral aesthetic
- Centered areola placement for balanced appearance
Best for:
Non-binary individuals seeking chest neutrality without masculine definition. If you want to eliminate gendered chest appearance and maintain an androgynous aesthetic, this pathway aligns with your identity.
Patient Perspective:
"Finally, a surgeon who understood I didn't want a 'male chest'—I wanted MY chest. Dr. Cornélio delivered exactly what I asked for: flat, neutral, and perfect for me." — River, 25, New York
Pathway 3: Soft-Neutral
Intermediate sculpting with subtle definition
This pathway offers a middle ground—gentle contour without strong masculine definition, creating a natural, understated appearance.
Key Features:
- Gentle contour without strong masculine definition
- Balanced projection—not flat, not prominently masculine
- Soft lateral transitions without sharp borders
- Natural, understated appearance
Best for:
Those seeking a middle ground between masculine definition and complete neutrality. If you want some shape and contour but not strong athletic definition, this pathway offers flexibility and subtlety.
Patient Perspective:
"I didn't want a super-defined chest, but I also didn't want completely flat. The soft-neutral pathway gave me exactly what I needed—natural and comfortable." — Alex, 26, Oregon
How to Choose Your Pathway
During your consultation, Dr. Cornélio will discuss your aesthetic goals, identity, and vision for your chest. Here are some questions to consider:
Do you want to pass consistently as male?
If yes, the Masculine pathway creates strong passability with clear definition.
Do you identify as non-binary and want a gender-neutral chest?
If yes, the Neutral pathway eliminates gendered appearance without masculine cues.
Do you want an athletic, defined appearance?
If yes, the Masculine pathway creates visible pectoral definition and contours.
Do you want something in between—not too defined, not completely flat?
If yes, the Soft-Neutral pathway offers gentle contour without strong definition.
Are you unsure which pathway fits your vision?
That's completely normal. During consultation, Dr. Cornélio will show examples and help you identify which aesthetic aligns with your identity.
Why Outcome Pathways Matter
Traditional surgeons offer one outcome: masculine. If you're non-binary, you're often told to accept a masculine result or skip surgery entirely. If you want subtle definition, you're given the same strong contours as everyone else.
This approach ignores identity diversity.
Dr. Cornélio's outcome pathways recognize that gender expression exists on a spectrum. Your chest should reflect your identity—not a standardized template. Whether you're transmasculine seeking passability, non-binary seeking neutrality, or somewhere in between, there's a pathway designed for you.
The Bottom Line
Your chest, your identity, your choice.
The 3D Sculpting Protocol™ adapts to your aesthetic goals—whether that's strong masculine definition, complete neutrality, or something in between. During consultation, you'll work with Dr. Cornélio to identify which pathway aligns with your vision and creates results that feel authentically you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my mind about which pathway I want?
Yes, up until surgery. During consultation, Dr. Cornélio will discuss your goals and show examples. If your vision evolves before surgery, you can adjust your pathway choice.
Do all pathways cost the same?
Yes. All-inclusive packages ($6,000-8,000) include any pathway. You're not charged extra for more complex sculpting or customization—the price reflects comprehensive care regardless of outcome choice.
What if I want something that doesn't fit these three categories?
These pathways are frameworks, not rigid templates. Dr. Cornélio customizes results within each pathway based on your specific anatomy and preferences. During consultation, you'll discuss exactly what you want.
Will my pathway choice affect recovery?
No. Recovery timelines are similar across all pathways—most patients return to light activities in 2-3 weeks. The surgical foundation is the same; only the degree of definition varies.
How do I know which pathway is right for me?
Start by thinking about your gender identity and how you want to present. Do you want strong masculine passability? Complete neutrality? Something subtle? During consultation, Dr. Cornélio will help you identify which pathway matches your vision by showing examples and discussing your goals.