A mastectomy is commonly performed on women who have breast cancer; however, an increasing number of patients suffering gender dysphoria, or gender identity disorder, are also having this procedure.

Gender dysphoria is a condition in which the individual is naturally assigned to one gender but identifies as belonging to the opposite one. The individual experiences intense discomfort, bouts of depression and an overwhelming need to make the changes necessary to allow them to live their life as a member of the opposite sex.

Statistically, the condition is more common in males however a significant number of women are also affected. Those females who feel that their assigned sex is not correct are termed transmen and are said to have a male gender identity.

Procedure information
Transmen who are ready to advance their journey towards complete gender realignment typically begin with a mastectomy. Such a procedure involves the surgical removal of the natural breast tissue, the modification of the nipple area and the shaping of the chest so as to conform to typical male contours.

A formal bilateral mastectomy is the most commonly practiced technique and can be performed in a single operation or two separate operations spaced about 12 months apart. The split-procedure approach involves the initial removal of the breast tissue followed by an operation to remove the excess skin. The advantage of this is less scarring than is likely when both procedures are performed in a single sitting.

Recovery time
Partial recovery can be expected in less than a week, after which the patient can return to work and resume mild physical activity although some vigilance and care is necessary to avoid complications.

Initially, patients are required to wear dressings over the breast area and possibly drainage tubes to collect any excess blood/fluid that is emitted from the affected sites. Full recovery will take 3 to 6 weeks, during which time patients may be given physical therapy exercises to perform with the arms to help encourage healing.