Breast Reduction: An Important Step Towards Preferred Gender Identity for Tomboys and Transgender Men

Breast Reduction, or “Top Surgery”, is one of the important steps in female-to-male gender reassignment aiming to express preferred gender identities for tomboys and transgender men who feel like males but whose bodies are women. The purpose of this procedure is to reduce breast size to make them appear flatter and more like to men’s breasts. 

Reasons you should get a breast reduction

The following are the primary causes of breast reduction in tomboys and transgender: 

• Body dissatisfaction: Being a symbol of femininity, breasts can make their owners feel insecure and uneasy.
• Gender nonconformity: It can be difficult to feel fully masculine when one has breasts.
• Convenience in daily life: Having a breast reduction can ease the hassle of getting dressed and daily life, as it eliminates the need for a corset. 

Surgical procedures and post-operative care

Breast reduction can be performed using several techniques, depending on the size of the breast and the elasticity of the skin. In breast reduction, excess breast tissue and skin are removed. Subsequently, the areola and nipple are reshaped and readjusted to their proper size and shape. The patients may experience swelling and bruises after surgery. Usually, these symptoms get better in two to three weeks. However, the patient should rest and avoid strenuous activities during the first phase of recovery. 

Psychological impact

In addition to altering physical appearance, breast reduction improves one’s emotional health. Patients frequently express greater happiness and satisfaction with their new appearance, as well as increased self-confident and comfort in their own skin. Additionally, it lessens stress and anxiety brought on by dissatisfaction with their prior appearance.