Cross-dressing is a form of gender expression that involves wearing clothing and accessories typically associated with the opposite sex—for example, a man who enjoys dressing in women’s clothing.
Transsexuality, on the other hand, involves identifying as the opposite sex and often includes a desire to transition physically. For instance, some trans women (individuals assigned male at birth who identify as female) undergo hormone therapy, breast augmentation, and sex reassignment surgery. These individuals often adopt a feminine identity in most areas of life, though they may not have female reproductive organs such as a uterus or ovaries, and thus do not experience menstruation or PMS.
While researching these topics, I came across an unusual trend that seems to fall somewhere between crossdressing and transsexuality: men who are choosing to get breast implants.
What struck me was the contrast—at a time when many women are opting to have their breast implants removed due to a growing “return to natural” movement and concerns over silicone-related health issues, some men are now choosing to get them.
There appear to be two main motivations behind this trend. The first is aesthetic: some men want a more muscular, defined chest and turn to pectoral implants to achieve that “gym body” look.
The second is more unconventional: men who simply want to have breasts—shaped like women’s breasts—not necessarily because they identify as female or want to transition. Many of these men don’t take hormones, don’t want to alter other masculine traits, and don’t intend to change their gender identity. They may identify as crossdressers, non-binary, or simply as men who enjoy having breasts. And yes, some of them are opting for breast implants.
Traditionally, many crossdressers and gender non-conforming individuals use breast forms or breastplates to simulate breasts. But these can be uncomfortable, feel artificial, and are easily removed. Some individuals grow tired of this and decide to undergo surgery to have their own breasts—real and permanent.
Of course, that permanence is a double-edged sword. Breast forms can be taken off at any time, while implants require surgery to remove—something many women who regret getting implants can attest to. For men, this permanence can create challenges in social and family settings, especially when presenting in a more traditionally masculine way.
There’s also the social reality: women are generally not attracted to men with breasts, and society doesn’t typically respond positively to this appearance. Some try to conceal them with loose clothing or other means.
With implants comes another necessity: a bra. Though some of these men already wore bras for comfort, style, or size testing before surgery, they’ll now need to wear one regularly to support their new breasts—especially if the implants are larger. For many, there’s joy in finally filling out a bra with something that’s truly part of them, rather than using external padding.
There are also practical concerns: implants add weight, which can lead to back pain or posture issues, much like with women. Plus, the freedom some men take for granted—like going shirtless in public—is often lost. Society may no longer view a man with breasts as someone who can casually go without a shirt.
Another barrier is that not all clinics are open to performing this type of surgery on men, as it remains relatively uncommon and may be seen as controversial.
As for me, I don’t think I’d go down that path. I’m not in the best shape, and I already have some chest fat that can be nicely shaped with a good underwire bra. It’s cheaper, more comfortable, and far less invasive than surgery. I guess I’m leaning into the “natural” trend myself.
That said, for those who genuinely desire to have their own breasts without the hassle of external forms, implants might be a satisfying and affirming choice.
– What do you think of this trend?
– Would you consider getting breast implants?
– How would you feel about having “real” breasts?