QUESTION

I am a DIII athlete and considering top surgery but not HRT. Would I still be able to compete in the NCAA if I get top surgery while in college?

Answer

"Yes, you absolutely can get top surgery and also still compete in the NCAA.

There are no rules that mandate certain sizes of one's chest, and that's really what the rule would be saying — you couldn't get top surgery and also play. So yes, you can compete and have top surgery.

The only thing that I'll recommend is to make sure that you are taking care of yourself as you recover. Most doctors recommend somewhere around 7 to 10 weeks of recovery, and so I would strongly recommend adhering to that.

Do not get back into a pool or onto a field or get back to the weight room too soon because you'll risk your recovery and your wellbeing. The thing I told myself is I need to give myself this time so I can have the rest of my shirtless life."

Schuyler Bailar
He/Him

is the 1st trans D1 NCAA men’s athlete, a bestselling author and an advocate for trans inclusion.