The goal is to create a more masculine chest.
This can be emotionally difficult.
Many struggle with chest dysphoriaextreme distress and discomfort brought on by having breasts.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Methods
There are a variety of chest binding methods.
The most common include:
Side Effects
Generally speaking, chest binding is safe.
However, it is known to have a number of potential side effects.
The most common symptoms reported in the study were:
Some people had numbing or stomach and digestive problems.
A very few even had scarring on their skin and fractured ribs.
These items are especially likely to cause side effects.
If possible, find a provider who specializes in transgender health.
You’ll feel more comfortable and they will have training and experience focused on transgender medical issues.
A healthcare provider will be able to treat whatever symptoms you’re experiencing, such as skin damage.
There are various procedures for altering the breasts so you can create a smoother, flatter, masculine chest.
If you have insurance, your plan may even cover top surgery.
Many companies regard it as medically necessary gender care.
There are a number of ways to practice chest binding and it’s safe when done properly.
Chest binding can cause a variety of health problems, however.
The best way to bind the chest is by wearing a garment that has been designed for that purpose.
Such chest binders can be pricey.
2020;7(5):254-263. doi:10.1089/lgbt.2019.0212
