Gender Affirming Mastectomy: The Surgery That Frees Chest Dysphoria

What is Gender-Affirming Mastectomy?

For many transmasculine and nonbinary individuals, chest dysphoria, a profound discomfort or distress related to the presence of breast tissue, can manifest as daily emotional and physical unease. It may cause individuals to feel disconnected from their bodies or experience heightened anxiety, especially in gendered or public situations. 

In this post, Dr. Sean Herman, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with experience in gender-affirming care, offers expert insight into how gender-affirming mastectomy can be a meaningful step toward alleviating chest dysphoria and aligning one's physical appearance with their gender identity.

How Gender-Affirming Mastectomy Alleviates Chest Dysphoria

Chest dysphoria can affect many aspects of daily life, influencing how individuals move through the world and relate to their own bodies. It may lead to discomfort during physical activity, anxiety about being seen shirtless, or distress when getting dressed or looking in the mirror. Some individuals experience feelings of shame, frustration, or emotional detachment, which can impact mental health and social engagement.

The experience of chest dysphoria is deeply personal, and so is the decision to undergo surgery. For many, gender-affirming mastectomy offers not only physical changes but also significant emotional relief. It can be a transformative step toward living more freely and authentically.

“For patients experiencing chest dysphoria, surgery can be profoundly liberating,” says Dr. Herman. “We’ve seen individuals stand taller, breathe easier, and regain a sense of control over their lives. That kind of transformation is deeply emotional and empowering.”

Types of Gender-Affirming Mastectomy

The type of gender-affirming mastectomy performed depends on the patient’s chest size, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals. At The Plastic Surgery Center, we specialize in several advanced techniques to ensure safe, tailored results:

Double Incision with Nipple Grafting

This is the most common approach for patients with larger chests. It involves removing breast tissue through horizontal incisions and repositioning or resizing the nipples via grafts to create a natural male-contoured chest.

Inverted-T or Anchor Technique

This technique may be used for patients with significant breast volume or skin laxity. It offers precise contouring but results in more scarring.

Periareolar (Keyhole) Technique

Ideal for patients with smaller chests and good skin elasticity, this technique removes tissue through incisions around the areola, minimizing visible scarring and preserving nipple sensation when possible.

Our surgeons will guide you through a personalized consultation to determine the best approach based on your body and goals.

 “The consultation is a collaborative process,” explains Dr. Herman. “We take the time to understand each person’s vision for their chest, their lifestyle, and their priorities, whether that’s preserving sensation, minimizing scarring, or achieving a specific aesthetic. From there, we recommend the surgical technique that best matches their anatomy and goals.” 

This is an important part of our process to ensure each patient feels empowered and understood in their journey.

Is Gender-Affirming Mastectomy Right for You?

Deciding to undergo a gender-affirming mastectomy is an extremely personal and transformative decision. For many patients, gender affirmation surgery marks a turning point in self-acceptance, mental health, and day-to-day comfort.

We proudly support trans, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming individuals in making empowered choices. Our surgeons bring a unique blend of technical skill, artistic vision, and compassionate care to every case.

 “We approach each patient with respect, clarity, and a commitment to honoring their identity,” explains Dr. Herman. “Our role is not just to perform surgery, but to support patients through one of the most meaningful transitions of their lives.”

Take the first step towards a more confident you by scheduling a consultation for gender-affirming mastectomy with our expert NJ surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Center. Contact us at 833-615-2618 to schedule an appointment.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Herman.