Chest flattening (or binding) makes it possible to give the chest a look that is considered “masculine”, which can assist in dealing with gender dysphoria. There are several methods to do this, of which the most common is using a binder. Other methods use dedicated sticky tape, tight sports bras, or articles of clothing that camouflage the shape of the breasts.

Binders are typically worn by people on the transmasc spectrum; however, anyone who finds them helpful is free to wear them. It’s important to remember that clothing and identity are unrelated. There are many trans men who choose not to flatten their chest, while there are women and nonbinary people who choose to do so.

It is particularly important to adhere to safe chest binding guidelines — use only methods intended for flattening the chest, according to the use instructions. Incorrect application, or use of elastic bandages not designated for the purpose of chest binding, can be dangerous and lead to irreversible damage.

Binders

A binder is a garment similar to a tank top or a bra, that gives the chest a flattened appearance when worn.
There are several brands of binders that are made of different fabrics, with various degrees of elasticity and stiffness, which can achieve differing results.
There are several different styles of binders: half binders (most common), which cut off under the ribcage; full binders, that go down to the hips (similarly to tank tops); binders with a clasp on the side; binders with a clasp on one of the straps, and more.
The binder is quite tight by definition and can sometimes be difficult to put on or take off. To make the process easier, it is recommended to wear it in a cool room with dry skin. Binders that have a clasp can be put on with the clasp already closed, or with the clasp open and close it afterward.
Additionally, a look that is similar to chest muscle can be achieved by compressing the breasts up and outwards for those with smaller breasts, or down and outwards for those with larger breasts.

Instructions and Risks

A binder is an effective solution for flattening the chest and assisting with gender dysphoria. However, long-term use or use against manufacturer instructions can have medical implications and may cause irreversible damage, such as heart problems and decreased lung function. ¹https://doi.org/10.1080/13691058.2016.1191675
Additionally, in the case of top surgery, it is important to refrain from using a binder for several weeks before surgery, to avoid complications and make recovery easier.²https://centreforsurgery.com/chest-binding-before-ftm-top-surgery-how-to-do-it-safely/

Binder use instructions:

• A binder may be worn up to 8 hours a day, no longer. It is recommended to take breaks throughout the day, as well as having “days off” in which the binder is not worn so the body can rest and recover.
• Do not sleep or exercise while wearing a binder (you may wear a sports bra or tight tank top). Exercise while binding does not allow enough oxygen to reach the lungs, which can lead to fainting, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Do not swim while wearing a binder, as it can lead to trouble breathing. There are binders designed for swimming which can be used if needed.
• Do not wear multiple binders on top of each other.
• Do not use DIY binders such as elastic bandages, they can be life-threatening. Only use binders designed for the purpose of chest binding.
• It is important to choose a binder of the correct size. Wearing a binder that is too small puts pressure on the body and can cause irreversible damage.

These instructions are general instructions for binder use, please read the instructions for individual binders on the manufacturer’s website, and act accordingly.

It is important to note that binders are not a permanent solution, and long-term use can cause damage. For a permanent solution, top surgery can be an option. In Israel nowadays, top surgery is possible via the Gender Reassignment Committee or privately. For further reading, refer to Maavarim’s safe binder use leaflet.

Risks of binder use include:

• Sweating, itchiness, and abrasion – to avoid this, it is possible to wear a shirt under the binder, which also assists in keeping the binder from moving throughout use. If there is abrasion or bulging fabric in the armpit area due to the binder not fitting your body structure, try cutting and sewing the binder to adjust the size.
• Trouble breathing and back pain – binders restrict movement of the lungs and chest. They also put pressure on the spine and limit the natural movement of the back and muscles. Therefore, do not wear a binder during exercise, limit the duration of wear, and take breaks throughout use.
• Additional (irreversible) risks – incorrect use of a binder, use of an unsuitable binder, or use beyond the recommended time limits can lead to various medical issues: permanent breathing issues, chest tissue shrinkage, change of breast shape, stretching of the skin accompanied by stretch marks, fractured ribs, scoliosis, fractured vertebrae and pressure sores on the back, posture issues, shoulder issues, heart problems, etc.

The side effects mentioned above can change from person to person and depend on body structure, the type and size of the binder, frequency of use, and length of use period. Sometimes it is possible to find solutions for some of the side effects such as using a different type of binder, using a larger size, or taking extended breaks from wearing a binder.

Buying a Binder

Binders typically cost around 150-200 NIS, depending on the store. There are cheap binders that cost around 30 NIS available on Aliexpress, however they are of bad quality and are not recommended. Note that each binder has its own size range and measurements. Read the measurement guidelines and consult the sizing table on the website of each manufacturer to make sure that the binder is the correct size.
Measurement instructions for some of the manufacturers are available here (however, the information may not be up to date, please consult the measurement guidelines on the brands’ websites).

To purchase a binder by delivery from abroad:

Here is a partial list including some of the leading brands.
Please note that some websites may contain sexual content.

• 
  For Them
• Flavnt
• Urbody
• GC2B
• Paxsies
• Transguy supply
• Underworks
• T kingdom
• Peecock
• Transtore
• GenderGear
• Mrimin
• Sock Drawer Heroes
• Untag

Secondhand binders

Secondhand binders may be available at Pride Centers and through community organizations.. It is also recommended to ask atin-person groups for the trans spectrum and on social media.

Tape

Tape, or Transtape, is a strip of flexible fabric that is sticky on one side and involves taping the breast to the body. Taping enables flattening of the chest without wearing an additional garment and without the risks involved with wearing a binder.
Unlike binding, tape can be worn for up to five days at a time, and it is ok to exercise and swim while wearing it. It is recommended to take breaks from wearing tape to allow the skin to breathe.

Instructions and Risks

Tape is an effective solution to relieve gender dysphoria. However, taping comes with risks, and just like binding, it is essential to follow manufacturer guidelines.
Incorrect usage or extended use of tape can cause wounds, inflammation, blisters, and scarring of the skin. Therefore, it is important to note:

• Tape should be comfortable from the moment of application. If there is noticeable restriction of movement or breathing, remove the tape and reapply.
• Do not apply tape on open wounds, it can cause inflammation and further injury.
• Use nipple protectors before applying tape (there are designated nipple protectors available for purchase, or use a piece of paper or fabric). Do not apply tape directly on the nipple, it can cause injury or even potentially rip the nipple.

To apply tape, cut two pieces of tape and round the corners for comfort as well as to avoid the tape peeling. Then, peel back half of the sticker paper and apply it to the inner side of the breast. Stretch the tape across the breast, and tape down the other half on the other side. There are many YouTube videos with detailed instructions on how to apply the tape correctly.

Buying Tape

Generic sports tapes are available for purchase at most pharmacies (for treatment of sports injuries); however, they may be less effective than tape intended for chest flattening.
Designated tape is available for purchase at the following stores:

• Transtape
• Untag
• Amazon (search for Transtape or KT tape)

Other Methods for Chest Flattening

The chest can be given a flatter appearance using the following methods without the use of binders or tape:

• Tight sports bras – can help flatten the chest. Two sports bras can be used on top of each other.
• Layers – wearing multiple layers of clothing can help camouflage the shape of the breast; one example is wearing a loose shirt with a button-down shirt or jacket on top. 
• Prints and patterns – wearing patterned shirts can draw attention away from the shape of the chest.