The medical community generally agrees that surgery is a complex and irreversible medical procedure, and that it is not appropriate for minors.

In the United States, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines recommend that minors should not undergo gender-affirming surgery until they are at least 18 years old. The guidelines also state that minors should have a long history of gender dysphoria and should have been living as their preferred gender for at least one year before undergoing surgery.

There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if a minor is experiencing severe gender dysphoria that is causing them significant distress, they may be able to get surgery at a younger age. However, this is rare and would only be done after careful consideration by a team of medical professionals.

It is important to note that not all transgender people choose to have surgery. Some people may feel that their gender identity is congruent with their physical sex, even if they do not identify with the gender roles associated with that sex. Others may choose to medically transition, but not all transsexual people have the same goals or experiences.

The decision of whether or not to have surgery is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best way to proceed is to listen to your own needs and desires.

If you are a minor who is considering gender surgery, it is important to talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider. They can help you to understand the risks and benefits of surgery and to make the best decision for you.

⦁ The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/: A national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth.
⦁ Trans Lifeline: https://www.translifeline.org/: A 24/7 hotline that provides support to transgender people in crisis.
⦁ The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/: An international organization that provides guidelines for the care of transgender people.
⦁ World Professional Association for Transgender Health: https://www.wpath.org/: An international organization that provides guidelines for the care of transgender people.

The topic of gender-affirming surgery for minors is a complex and sensitive one. The guidelines and regulations regarding gender-affirming surgeries for individuals under the age of 18 vary across countries and jurisdictions.
In many places, there are specific criteria and protocols in place to ensure that any medical interventions, including gender-affirming surgeries, for minors are carried out with careful consideration and in the best interest of the individual. These protocols typically involve a thorough assessment process, which may include psychological evaluations, medical evaluations, and consultations with healthcare professionals experienced in transgender healthcare.

The general approach is to prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of the minor and to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits, risks, and consequences of the procedures. The involvement of parents or legal guardians is also typically required, and their consent may be necessary depending on local regulations.

It’s important to note that the decision to pursue gender-affirming surgery for minors is a highly individual one, and it should be made in collaboration with qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in transgender healthcare. They can provide guidance, support, and help evaluate the appropriateness of such procedures based on the individual’s specific circumstances, needs, and overall well-being.

If you are a minor considering gender-affirming surgery, or if you are a parent or guardian seeking information on behalf of a minor, I recommend reaching out to healthcare professionals who specialize in transgender healthcare in your area. They will be best equipped to provide personalized guidance based on the specific laws, regulations, and resources available in your jurisdiction.