Nic Chien, the 19-year-old child of international singer and Broadway star Lea Salonga, publicly revealed his top surgery through a topless photo posted on his Instagram account on Thursday as part of his observance of Transgender Awareness Week.
Chien confirmed that he underwent FTM (female-to-male) chest reconstruction surgery in September 2025 and had waited for his wounds to heal before sharing the update.
“Was able to finally get top surgery last September. Been waiting to heal enough to post a nice looking picture of myself. The healing process was brutal! But worth it,” he wrote.
He said the procedure has significantly improved his gender dysphoria and overall mental health.
“Not having to wear a binder, be afraid of judgment, and being able to be shirtless has been one of the most gratifying things ever,” he added.
Chien also emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care and expressed gratitude for receiving support from his family.
“I’m very grateful to be able to receive gender affirming care… P.S. wouldn’t have been able to do all of this without parents’ support, love you,” his post read.
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Netizens left positive comments on his announcement, commending him for sharing his journey and expressing support for his transition.
Chien, whose full name is Nicole Beverly Chien, signaled his public identity as a transgender man through his post. He previously came out as trans in earlier online statements.
His announcement follows the milestone set by Filipino singer Jake Zyrus, who also underwent chest reconstruction surgery in 2017.
Transgender Awareness Week is observed from November 13 to 19 to highlight the stories and experiences of transgender individuals.
