Male-to-female (MTF) genital reconstruction surgery, also known as vaginoplasty, is a surgical procedure that constructs a neovagina. It involves creating a vaginal canal and reconstructing the external genitalia to resemble those of cisgender women.
During the surgery, the surgeon typically uses penile and scrotal tissue to create the neovagina. The penile skin is inverted to form the vaginal canal, while the scrotal skin is used to create the labia. The surgeon may also create a clitoral hood and position the urethral opening.
After the surgery, the neovagina requires regular dilation to prevent the vaginal canal from narrowing or closing. Dilators of increasing sizes are used to maintain the depth and width of the neovagina. The frequency and duration of dilation vary depending on the surgeon’s instructions.
It’s important to note that MTF genital reconstruction surgery is a complex and highly specialized procedure. It should only be pursued after careful consideration, extensive discussions with healthcare professionals experienced in transgender healthcare, and meeting the necessary criteria for surgery.
If you are considering MTF genital reconstruction surgery, it is recommended to consult with a qualified and experienced gender-affirming surgeon who can provide you with detailed information about the procedure, potential risks and complications, expected outcomes, and post-operative care. They can guide you through the process and help determine if the surgery is the right choice for you.