Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Question #6707
33 days ago
53

Transgender surgery - #6707

Anonymously

I’ve been researching transgender surgery, and I realize there’s a lot to understand. What exactly happens during gender-affirming surgery, and what are the different options available for transgender individuals? From what I read, there are top surgeries (like mastectomy or breast augmentation) and bottom surgeries (like vaginoplasty or phalloplasty). But how do doctors decide if someone is ready for transgender surgery? Is hormone therapy always required before surgery, or can someone undergo surgery without it? I also wonder about the recovery process. How long does it take to heal from major gender-affirming procedures, and what are the risks of complications like scarring, nerve damage, or infection? For those who have had transgender surgery, what was your experience? Did you need multiple surgeries, or was one procedure enough?

Transgender surgery
Gender-affirming surgery
Vaginoplasty
Phalloplasty
Top surgery
Hormone therapy
Recovery process
Question is closed

On the Ask Doctors service, online consultations with doctors for Sexually Transmitted Diseases are available for any issue that concerns you. Expert doctors provide consultations around the clock and for free. Ask your question and get an answer right away!

Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
32 days ago
Gender-affirming surgery encompasses both top surgeries (like mastectomy or breast augmentation) and bottom surgeries (like vaginoplasty or phalloplasty). The choice of surgery depends on an individual's needs and desires. However, the decision to undergo surgery is made collaboratively with healthcare providers, who typically assess readiness based on mental health support, hormone therapy history, and overall well-being. Hormone therapy is often recommended before surgery, as it helps align physical characteristics with gender identity. However, not everyone undergoes hormone therapy before surgery, and some individuals might choose surgery without it, based on personal circumstances. Recovery time varies, but major surgeries can take months to fully heal. Risks of complications include scarring, nerve damage, or infection, but these are rare when proper post-surgical care is followed. For those who’ve had surgery, some may require multiple procedures to achieve the desired outcome. It’s common to undergo several surgeries to refine the results.
Accepted response

0 replies

If you need a detailed answer, ask your question to a doctor

A doctor will answer all of your questions, advise you what to do now to get better, what to do in the future, what best treatments and practices should be followed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service.


Related questions