For many trans men, their chest is a source of discomfort, leading them to use various methods for chest masculinization. The most effective and lasting option is surgery, which modifies chest contours to create a masculine appearance. The goal of chest masculinization surgery is to help individuals feel comfortable with their body and the image it conveys.
How to masculinize the chest
For those seeking a flat, masculine chest—like many trans men—options are limited, with trans mastectomy remaining the most effective method for chest masculinization. However, temporary solutions like chest binders can also compress chest tissue to create a flatter look. Here, we outline three methods to achieve a more masculine chest appearance.
Chest binder
Chest binding involves wearing a garment that compresses chest tissue to give a flat-chested appearance. This is a common practice among trans men. For safety, we recommend using binders made from elastic, breathable materials, ideally with natural fibers. Excessive use of binding, however, can lead to unwanted side effects, including tissue and muscle damage, restricted movement and breathing, bacterial infections in the compressed area, chest pain, and skin irritation or itching. Therefore, chest binding should be considered a temporary or occasional option.
Hormone therapy
Some trans men use hormone therapy to reduce the development of secondary sexual characteristics associated with biological sex, such as breast development and menstruation. The impact of hormonal blocking depends on the age when treatment begins. For example, if started at a young age (during adolescence), it may prevent the development of secondary sexual characteristics and mammary gland growth. For adults, cross-sex hormone therapy is typically used. In trans men, this involves administering testosterone to masculinize the body. However, results vary based on genetics, age, and physical characteristics, and hormone therapy alone may not produce the desired results.
Trans mastectomy
Trans mastectomy is a surgery that not only removes mammary gland tissue but also resizes and masculinizes the areola and nipple. Additionally, repositioning is essential, as the areola-nipple complex is typically located more laterally on the pectoral muscle in men. Trans mastectomy allows trans men to achieve a flat, symmetrical chest, resulting in a masculinized chest appearance.
Trans men considering surgery as a solution for chest masculinization often have questions about continued hormone therapy, scarring, and the final outcome. You can review frequently asked questions about mastectomy or contact us directly, and we will answer your questions. In this video, Marc shares his experience with mastectomy at IM GENDER.
Recovery after mastectomy
During chest masculinization surgery, a drain is placed on each side of the chest to facilitate the release of fluids and prevent swelling and bruising. These drains are usually removed after 48 hours, at which point you will begin wearing a compression garment for one to two weeks, as recommended by your medical team.
In the first month after mastectomy, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities, taking weights, and do sports. After a month, based on your recovery progress and surgeon’s advice, you may gradually return to your normal physical activities.