Introduction: Transgender individuals (individuals whose gender identity does not match the sex assigned to them at birth) may undergo a transition process to affirm their identity. This process may include various medical procedures such as hormone therapy and surgical interventions, one of which is breast removal or mastectomy for transmasculine individuals. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to present the experiences of transmasculine individuals with mastectomy surgery based on a conducted survey, focusing on pre- and post-operative care, symptoms and issues where physiotherapeutic intervention could be indicated. Methods: We conducted an online questionnaire targeting transmasculine individuals who had undergone breast removal surgery within the Slovenian healthcare system as part of their medical transition process. Due to the small population, we utilized a snowball sampling method. Results: The final sample consisted of 14 respondents. They had diverse experiences with the surgery itself, waiting times, pre- and post-operative instructions. Responses regarding physiotherapeutic treatment were more consistent, as the majority did not engage in it neither per instructions nor voluntarily. Most respondents had experiences with chest binding practices before surgery, along with associated side effects and negative symptoms. They also experienced difficulties with a hunched body posture and related back pain, which improved after surgery. Discussion and Conclusion: Based on available literature and survey results, we identified areas where physiotherapists have competencies to improve the quality of life for transgender individuals (chest binding, body posture, pain management related to it, scar treatment). We also identified ways in which physiotherapists may reproduce social stigma and how to avoid that. Due to the marginalized nature of this population, there is a lack of information and research, highlighting the importance of self-education, striving for further research (to ensure evidence-based practice), and commitment to equality and dignity regardless of personal circumstances.
|