Mastectomy

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both breasts are partially or completely removed. It is used primarily in breast cancer treatment, but may also be medically necessary for other reasons. In the context of gender-affirming care, mastectomy is often referred to as “top surgery” and can be an important step in relieving chest-related dysphoria for trans men and non-binary people.

This is a major operation with typical surgical risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, loss of sensation, and possible wound-healing complications. A mastectomy should therefore only be performed after thorough medical consultation, careful assessment of the indication, and proper postoperative care.