Gender change surgery, also known as gender-affirming surgery or sex reassignment surgery (SRS), is a medical procedure designed to alter the physical characteristics of an individual’s body to align with their gender identity. The specific procedures involved in gender change surgery vary depending on whether the person is transitioning from male to female (MTF) or female to male (FTM). Here is a general overview of how these surgeries work:
- Male to Female (MTF) Surgery:
- Vaginoplasty: This surgery creates a neovagina, which is a functional and anatomically similar vagina, using penile and scrotal tissue. The penis is typically inverted to form the vaginal canal, and the scrotal skin is used to create the labia.
- Orchiectomy: In some cases, the procedure may begin with an orchiectomy, which involves removing the testicles.
- Breast Augmentation: Many MTF individuals undergo breast augmentation surgery to achieve a more feminine chest appearance.
- Female to Male (FTM) Surgery:
- Mastectomy (Top Surgery): This procedure involves removing the breast tissue to create a more masculine chest appearance.
- Hysterectomy and Oophorectomy: In some cases, FTM individuals may opt for a hysterectomy and oophorectomy to remove the uterus and ovaries, respectively.
- Phalloplasty or Metoidioplasty: Phalloplasty is a procedure that constructs a neophallus using tissue from various donor sites, such as the forearm or thigh. Metoidioplasty is another option, which releases the clitoral hood to create a larger, more prominent phallus using existing genital tissue.
- Scrotoplasty: This procedure creates a scrotum using labial skin or other tissue.
It’s important to note that gender change surgeries are major medical procedures that often require multiple stages and careful post-operative care. Not all transgender individuals opt for surgery as part of their transition, and the decision to undergo any medical procedure is a deeply personal one.
Before considering gender change surgery, individuals typically undergo a thorough evaluation and counseling to ensure they are mentally and emotionally prepared for the process. They also need to meet specific eligibility criteria set by the medical team performing the surgeries.
Gender-affirming surgeries are typically performed by specialized surgeons who have experience in transgender healthcare. It is crucial to seek reputable and qualified medical professionals who have a deep understanding of transgender health issues and can provide appropriate care throughout the process.