Chest Binding before Top Surgery

Chest binding is a form of flattening the chest in order to give the appearance of a male’s chest. By using a chest binder, it can help a lot with passing and is usually quite common in transitioning. It can also help alleviate some of the chest dysphoria.

For some hiding/flattening of the chest can’t be done by using layers of clothing. So, using a chest binder helps compress the chest area enough to help with presenting as male.

There are a number of different ways in which we can hide our chests, from the very risky; tape and bandages to back supports, layers of clothing, even sports bras. The only method that works effectively and many will agree is using a chest compression garment.

The chest binders are available in two styles, the full length, just like a t-shirt. The other, is the half-top which leaves the stomach free. However, there are many variations on these two main styles:

The half-top which is available with a zipper, clasp or Velcro. These are far easier to get into. There is also some available that have a bottom section of material that can help to keep the binder in place and stop it from rolling up.

The clasp and Velcro style are a great idea as you can adjust the fit. These are ideal for camping or just relaxing at home.

The full length is a complete front panel of compression. However getting in and out may become trouble some as they have a tendency to bunch up around the armpits. Which in turn may require some help in not getting stuck.

Chest binders come in a variety of compression levels, meaning the more layers of compression strips used the flatter the chest should go.

Over time the size, style/shape and materials used have changed dramatically.

Please bind safely and follow these simply guidelines:

1. Never buy a size smaller than the sizing guide suggests as this will have a negative effect on your breathing, plus you may not fit into it.
2. If this is your first binder try using it for just a few hours a day to start with as it will take time for you to adjust to wearing it. Once you get used to it start to increase the time you wear it.
3. Try not to bind for longer than 8 hours a day, if you know that this may happen try and take a break.
4. Never double bind, this may give you the flattest chest ever but it will restrict your breathing, cause bruising to your rib cage. It can also cause complications for your top surgery as the breast tissue can be pushed inwards.
5. Don’t sleep in your binder, as it will have a negative effect on your breathing.
6. Above all else listen to your body, it will tell you when it’s had enough of wearing it.

You can either hand wash or machine wash your binder, just remember to only use cold water. Use a gentle cycle if you decide to pop it in the washing machine. Drip dry or flat dry, do not place your binder in the tumble dryer.

Check out a full list of places that you can buy chest binders from here in the UK and Abroad. If you have any recommendations let us know by leaving a comment below or use the contact us form.