Does anyone know anything about Dr. Lovelle in Newton, Kansas? She lists gynecomastia and breast reduction on her website but nothing specifically trans related. I'd prefer to stay local if I get top surgery to keep costs down, so I'm hoping this is a viable option.
You can ask. I think it's unlikely because someone understanding trans guys in a red state might be a rare thing. Gynecomastia is closer than reduction. Don't think you necessarily save money. You might have it cheaper going to surgeon and paying for transportation and lodging. There are ways to cut down costs.
Lower transportation: bus, train, someone drives (though it can't be you), etc. Airfare 6 months out.
Meals: definitely make or buy frozen meals, eat sandwiches, cereal and milk for breakfast, largish 7-11s (often have sandwiches, boiled eggs, etc). Motel serves breakfast and has refrigerator big bonus. So you need a place with a refrigerator.
Lodging: A friend's house (find a surgeon somewhere where a friend lives), youth hostel (you won't be correctly gendered but it will be cheap and they often have breakfast), Extended stay motels, low end, rent a house (could be cheap or VERY expensive).
Staying at New Beginnings and getting a ticket 4 months in advance saved me probably a thousand dollars.
--Jay