{"id":8588,"date":"2024-06-26T04:26:23","date_gmt":"2024-06-26T01:26:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/transwiki.co.il\/?post_type=articles&p=8588"},"modified":"2025-07-14T23:06:19","modified_gmt":"2025-07-14T20:06:19","slug":"binders-and-chest-flattening","status":"publish","type":"articles","link":"https:\/\/transwiki.co.il\/en\/articles\/binders-and-chest-flattening\/","title":{"rendered":"Binders and Chest Flattening"},"content":{"rendered":"

Chest flattening (or binding) makes it possible to give the chest a look that is considered \u201cmasculine\u201d, 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. <\/span><\/p>\n

Binders are typically worn by people on the transmasc spectrum; however, anyone who finds them helpful is free to wear them. It\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

It is particularly important to adhere to safe chest binding guidelines \u2014 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. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Binders
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A binder <\/span><\/a>is a garment similar to a tank top or a bra, that gives the chest a flattened appearance when worn.<\/span>
\n<\/span>There are several brands of binders that are made of different fabrics, with various degrees of elasticity and stiffness, which can achieve differing results.<\/span>
\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
\n<\/span>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.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Instructions and Risks<\/span><\/h2>\n

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. 1<\/a><\/sup>https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/13691058.2016.1191675<\/span>
\nAdditionally, 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.2<\/a><\/sup>https:\/\/centreforsurgery.com\/chest-binding-before-ftm-top-surgery-how-to-do-it-safely\/<\/span><\/span>
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Binder use instructions:<\/span><\/h3>\n