Refine the appearance of your upper back with scapula shave surgery, specifically meant for transfeminine individuals seeking a softer silhouette. At Transitions, our board-certified surgeons—Dr. Leif Rogers and Dr. Walter J. Joseph—specialize in gender-affirming care that blends advanced techniques with aesthetic artistry to support your authentic transformation.
Achieve soft, feminine upper back contours
Scapula shave is a gender-affirming procedure that reduces the prominence of the shoulder blades for a more feminine, contoured upper back. This procedure involves carefully reshaping the scapula—the flat, triangular bones on either side of your upper back—to minimize their projection and create a smoother silhouette under clothing and in profile.
The scapula is essential for shoulder function and posture, but its natural projection can appear more angular or pronounced, especially in individuals assigned male at birth. By selectively shaving down the most prominent portion of the scapula, our surgeons can align your physical appearance with your gender identity. At Transitions, this procedure is performed precisely to preserve shoulder mobility while enhancing your overall feminine shape.
Scapula shave can address these concerns:
- Visibly prominent or angular shoulder blades
- Feeling self-conscious in fitted tops or dresses
- Experiencing gender dysphoria related to shoulder blade prominence
Do I qualify for a scapula shave?
You may be a good candidate for a scapula shave if you’re a transfeminine individual seeking a refined upper back. This procedure is ideal for those who feel their shoulder blades appear too prominent or angular and want a softer, more traditionally feminine silhouette. The ideal candidates must also be in good overall health and have realistic expectations.
During your consultation at Transitions, our surgeons will carefully assess your goals, medical history, and physical anatomy. They’ll examine your scapular structure and body proportions to determine if the procedure is safe and likely to achieve your desired outcome. We may also use imaging techniques to help guide this decision, ensuring the surgery aligns with your transition goals while preserving shoulder function and long-term mobility.
What are the benefits of a scapula shave?
Scapula shave offers transfeminine individuals an opportunity to refine their upper back and feel more confident in their appearance. By reducing the prominence of the shoulder blades, this procedure helps create a smoother silhouette that aligns with feminine aesthetics. Benefits of scapula shave may include:
- Achieving a softer, less angular upper back contour
- Feeling more confident in tight-fitting or backless clothing
- Enhancing harmony between your shoulders, torso, and waist
- Supporting your gender expression through body feminization
- Reducing visual cues associated with masculine skeletal features
- Complementing other gender-affirming procedures like clavicle shortening
The day of your scapula shave surgery
On the day of your scapula shave surgery, you’ll arrive at our in-house surgical center, where you’ll be guided through preoperative steps by our medical team. After being placed under general anesthesia, your surgeon will make small, well-concealed incisions near your shoulder blades. Through these incisions, the most prominent portion of each scapula is carefully contoured and shaved down using precision instruments.
The procedure reduces scapular projection while preserving your shoulder function and muscle attachments. Once the reshaping is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures and dressed to promote optimal healing. You’ll be monitored in recovery before being discharged to rest—either at home or in our post-care facility. Our team will ensure you have detailed aftercare instructions and everything you need for a smooth start to recovery.
Your recovery experience after scapula shave surgery
After your scapula shave surgery, you can expect some soreness, swelling, and tightness in the upper back and shoulders. These symptoms are normal and typically managed with prescribed pain medication and supportive care. You must avoid lifting your arms above shoulder level and limit strenuous activity during the initial healing phase.
Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, but full recovery can take several weeks, depending on your healing response. Our team will monitor your progress through follow-up visits and provide personalized guidance. You’ll also receive tips on scar care and mobility exercises to support your recovery. Over time, you’ll notice a smoother, more feminine contour to your upper back that aligns with your aesthetic goals.
Transition into your authentic self
Transitions is here to support you with compassionate, gender-affirming care that reflects who you truly are. Our expert surgeons specialize in advanced procedures like scapula shave to help refine your silhouette and align your body with your identity. Schedule your consultation for a scapula shave in Pasadena or Beverly Hills, and take the next step in your beautiful transition.
Redefining
Gender-Affirming
Care & Aesthetics
Transitions: Where Your True Self Emerges
BEVERLY HILLS: 310.860.8915PASADENA: 626.537.3737
