Sex reassignment surgery (SRS), also known as gender confirmation surgery, for a male-to-female (MtF) transition involves reshaping the male genitals into a form with the appearance of and, as far as possible, the function of female genitalia. This procedure is also known as vaginoplasty.
Here’s a basic overview of the procedure:
- Penectomy: This involves the removal of the penis, although not all of the penile tissue. Some of this tissue is used in the construction of the neovagina.
- Orchiectomy: This is the removal of the testes, which stops the production of testosterone.
- Vaginoplasty: The surgeon uses skin from the penis and scrotum to create a vagina. The neovagina is carefully placed between the urethra and the rectum. In some cases, a piece of the colon may be used to form the neovagina.
- Labiaplasty: This procedure forms the labia minora and labia majora from scrotal and other skin.
- Clitoroplasty: The glans of the penis is typically used to form a neoclitoris. The goal is to preserve sensation.
Following surgery, regular dilation of the vagina is usually necessary to prevent stenosis (narrowing of the vagina).
These procedures are complex and not without risk, so a decision to undergo surgery should be made in consultation with experienced healthcare providers.
Also, remember that not all transgender women opt for or can access surgery, and their identities are valid regardless of surgical status. As of my knowledge cut-off in 2021, there are non-surgical options as well, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can help in aligning an individual’s physical appearance with their gender identity.
As always, the information available may have evolved after my last training data in September 2021. Always consult with healthcare professionals to get the most recent and relevant information.