There is no such thing as “tomboy surgery”. The term “tomboy” is used to describe a girl who exhibits traditionally masculine behaviors. There is no medical procedure that can change a girl’s gender identity or expression.
If you are a tomboy who is considering surgery, it is important to talk to a doctor about your options. There are a number of gender-affirming surgeries that can be performed, but they are not appropriate for everyone. A doctor can help you to determine if surgery is right for you and can refer you to a qualified surgeon.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
⦁ The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care: https://www.wpath.org/publications/soc
⦁ The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE): https://transequality.org/
⦁ The Trans Lifeline: https://www.translifeline.org/
It is also important to remember that you do not need surgery to be a tomboy. There are many ways to express your gender identity without having to go through surgery. You can dress in masculine clothing, cut your hair short, or adopt traditionally masculine hobbies. The most important thing is to be comfortable with who you are.
The term “tomboy” refers to a girl or woman who expresses behavior or interests typically associated with boys or men. It’s important to note that being a tomboy is not a medical condition or a gender identity, but rather a way of expressing oneself outside of societal gender norms.
If you are referring to a specific surgical procedure called “tomboy surgery,” it is not a recognized medical term or procedure. It’s possible that you may be referring to a gender-affirming surgery, such as chest masculinization surgery (also known as top surgery), which is often sought by transgender individuals assigned female at birth who identify as male or non-binary.
Chest masculinization surgery involves the removal of breast tissue and reshaping of the chest to create a more masculine appearance. The specifics of the surgery can vary depending on the individual’s goals, body shape, and the surgeon’s techniques. This procedure is typically performed as part of a transgender person’s gender-affirming journey and is intended to alleviate gender dysphoria and help align their physical appearance with their gender identity.
It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in gender-affirming surgeries to discuss your specific needs and goals. They will be able to provide you with personalized information, assess your eligibility for surgery, discuss the surgical options available, and guide you through the process.
Remember that any decision related to surgery should be made in consultation with medical professionals and based on your individual circumstances and goals.
It’s important to note that the term “tomboy” is subjective and can carry different connotations for different people. Some use it affectionately to describe a girl or woman who is active, adventurous, and enjoys a variety of activities, regardless of societal gender norms. However, others may find the term limiting or reinforcing of gender stereotypes.
It’s crucial to respect and acknowledge individual preferences and choices, allowing everyone the freedom to express themselves in ways that feel authentic to them, regardless of gender norms. People should be free to pursue interests and activities based on personal preferences rather than societal expectations.
- Tomboy:
- Description: A tomboy refers to a girl or woman who exhibits behaviors and interests traditionally associated with boys. This may include a preference for activities such as sports, climbing, or wearing clothing typically considered more masculine.
- Gender Expression:
- Description: Gender expression is the way individuals convey their gender identity to others. This includes choices related to clothing, hairstyle, interests, and behaviors.
- Gender Stereotypes:
- Description: Gender stereotypes are preconceived and oversimplified beliefs about how individuals of a particular gender should behave, based on societal expectations rather than individual traits.
- Gender Norms:
- Description: Gender norms are societal expectations and standards regarding how individuals of different genders should behave. These norms often reinforce traditional roles and expectations.
- Gender Identity:
- Description: Gender identity is an individual’s internal sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with the sex assigned to them at birth. It is a deeply personal and intrinsic aspect of self.
- Gender Nonconforming:
- Description: Gender nonconforming refers to individuals whose gender expression does not align with societal expectations or traditional gender norms. It emphasizes a departure from conventional gender roles.
- Societal Expectations:
- Description: Societal expectations are the collective norms and standards that society places on individuals based on their gender, influencing how people are expected to behave and present themselves.
- Gender Roles:
- Description: Gender roles are the set of behaviors, activities, and expectations considered appropriate for individuals of a particular gender. They are often culturally defined and can vary across societies.
- Empowerment:
- Description: Empowerment is the process of becoming stronger, more confident, and assertive in one’s abilities. It often involves individuals embracing their authentic selves and asserting control over their lives.
- Individuality:
- Description: Individuality is the quality or character of being an individual, emphasizing personal uniqueness and distinctiveness. It recognizes and celebrates the differences that make each person unique.
- Gender Equality:
- Description: Gender equality is the concept of providing equal rights, opportunities, and treatment for individuals of all genders. It advocates for eliminating discrimination based on gender.
- Inclusivity:
- Description: Inclusivity is the practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized. It emphasizes creating environments that embrace diversity and ensure equal participation for all individuals.
These explanations provide insights into the nuanced aspects of gender, societal expectations, and individual empowerment. Each topic plays a role in shaping perceptions and experiences related to gender identity and expression.
Surgeries are not inherently associated with being a tomboy. Surgical procedures are more commonly related to gender transition or gender-affirming processes, which involve individuals aligning their physical appearance with their gender identity. Such surgeries are not exclusive to tomboys but are rather part of the broader context of transgender and gender nonconforming experiences.
If you are specifically interested in gender-affirming surgeries, these can vary depending on an individual’s gender identity and the direction of their transition. Here are some surgeries commonly associated with gender transition:
- Chest (Top) Surgery (for Assigned Females at Birth, AFAB):
- Mastectomy (removal of breast tissue) for individuals transitioning from female to male.
Mastectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of breast tissue and is commonly pursued by individuals who are transitioning from female to male. This procedure is part of gender-affirming surgeries aimed at aligning a person’s physical characteristics with their gender identity.
Here are some key points about mastectomy in the context of gender transition:
Purpose:
- The primary goal of mastectomy for individuals transitioning from female to male is to create a chest that aligns with a more masculine appearance.
Types of Mastectomy:
- Double Mastectomy (Bilateral Mastectomy):
- Involves the removal of breast tissue from both breasts.
- Creates a flatter and more masculine chest contour.
- Subcutaneous Mastectomy:
- Removes breast tissue while preserving the nipple-areolar complex.
- Aims to retain sensation and the natural appearance of the chest.
- Keyhole Mastectomy:
- A type of subcutaneous mastectomy that involves smaller incisions.
- Suitable for individuals with smaller breasts and minimal excess skin.
- Peri-areolar Mastectomy (Keyhole with Nipple Graft):
- Similar to keyhole mastectomy but may include repositioning the nipple through grafting.
Additional Procedures:
- Some individuals may opt for additional procedures, such as nipple grafting or chest contouring, to enhance the aesthetic outcome.
Timing:
- Mastectomy is often part of a staged approach to gender transition.
- The decision to undergo mastectomy is a personal one and varies from individual to individual.
Recovery:
- Recovery times can vary depending on the type of mastectomy performed.
- Post-operative care includes wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activities during the initial healing period.
Emotional and Psychological Considerations:
- Mastectomy is a significant step in a person’s gender affirmation journey and can have positive effects on mental health and well-being.
It’s important to emphasize that the decision to undergo mastectomy or any gender-affirming procedure is deeply personal. Individuals considering such surgeries often go through a thorough assessment and consultation process with healthcare professionals, including mental health professionals who specialize in transgender care.
If you or someone you know is considering mastectomy or any gender-affirming procedure, it’s recommended to consult with qualified healthcare professionals who can provide tailored information, support, and guidance based on individual needs and goals.
- Genital (Bottom) Surgery (for Assigned Males at Birth, AMAB):
Phalloplasty and metoidioplasty are surgical procedures commonly pursued by individuals who are transitioning from female to male as part of their gender affirmation process. Both procedures are intended to create a more masculine genital appearance, aligning with the individual’s gender identity. Here are key points about each:
- Phalloplasty:
- Description:
- Phalloplasty is a complex surgical procedure that involves the construction of a neophallus, which is a surgically created penis.
- The procedure may use tissue grafts from different parts of the body, often the forearm or thigh, to construct the phallus.
- The surgery can include the creation of a urethra to allow for urination through the neophallus.
- Erectile prostheses may be implanted to allow for sexual function.
- Stages:
- Phalloplasty is typically performed in multiple stages due to its complexity.
- Stages may include creating the phallus, urethral lengthening, and implantation of erectile devices.
- Post-Operative Considerations:
- Recovery from phalloplasty is a gradual process, and individuals may need to follow specific post-operative care instructions.
- Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and address any issues.
- Description:
- Metoidioplasty:
- Description:
- Metoidioplasty is a procedure that involves releasing the clitoral tissue that has been enlarged through hormone therapy to create a neophallus.
- The procedure aims to increase the size of the existing genital tissue and create a more masculine appearance.
- Urethral Lengthening:
- Metoidioplasty may also include urethral lengthening to allow for a more typical urination position.
- Scrotoplasty:
- Some individuals may choose to undergo scrotoplasty during metoidioplasty to create a scrotum.
- Post-Operative Considerations:
- Recovery from metoidioplasty is generally faster compared to phalloplasty.
- Like with any surgery, post-operative care is crucial, and follow-up appointments are necessary.
- Description:
Considerations:
- The choice between phalloplasty and metoidioplasty depends on factors such as personal preferences, anatomical considerations, and desired outcomes.
- Some individuals may choose one procedure initially and later opt for additional surgeries to achieve specific goals.
It’s important to note that these surgeries are elective and not all individuals choose to pursue them. The decision to undergo phalloplasty, metoidioplasty, or any gender-affirming surgery is deeply personal and varies from person to person. It involves careful consideration, consultations with healthcare professionals specializing in transgender care, and discussions about individual goals and expectations.
- Vaginoplasty for individuals transitioning from male to female.
- Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS):
Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is a series of surgical procedures designed to alter and feminize facial features for individuals undergoing gender transition from male to female. The goal of FFS is to help align a person’s physical appearance with their gender identity. The specific procedures included in FFS can vary based on individual needs and goals. Here are common components of Facial Feminization Surgery:
- Forehead Reconstruction:
- Description:
- Forehead reconstruction may involve procedures such as brow bone reduction, contouring, and hairline advancement.
- It aims to soften and feminize the upper face by addressing prominent brow ridges and adjusting the hairline.
- Description:
- Hairline Advancement:
- Description:
- Hairline advancement is a procedure to lower the hairline, creating a more feminine forehead appearance.
- This can be particularly important for individuals with a naturally higher hairline.
- Description:
- Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping):
- Description:
- Rhinoplasty is performed to reshape the nose, making it more delicate and in harmony with feminine facial features.
- Adjustments may include reducing the size of the nose or refining the nasal tip.
- Description:
- Cheek Augmentation:
- Description:
- Cheek augmentation involves enhancing the prominence and roundness of the cheeks to create a softer and more feminine facial contour.
- This can be achieved through implants or fat grafting.
- Description:
- Lip Lift or Augmentation:
- Description:
- Lip lift or augmentation procedures aim to feminize the lips by adjusting their size, shape, or projection.
- Lip fillers or surgery may be used for this purpose.
- Description:
- Chin and Jaw Contouring:
- Description:
- Chin and jaw contouring may involve reducing the size of the chin or rounding the jawline to create a more feminine profile.
- This can be achieved through procedures like genioplasty or mandibular angle reduction.
- Description:
- Tracheal Shave (Adam’s Apple Reduction):
- Description:
- Tracheal shave is a procedure to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple, providing a smoother and more feminine neck profile.
- Description:
- Facelift and Neck Lift:
- Description:
- Facelift and neck lift procedures help address sagging or excess skin, contributing to a more youthful and feminine appearance.
- Description:
- Laryngoplasty (Voice Feminization Surgery):
- Description:
- While not a facial procedure, some individuals include voice feminization surgery as part of their overall transition to achieve a more feminine vocal quality.
- Description:
Considerations:
- FFS is a highly individualized process, and the specific procedures chosen depend on each person’s unique facial anatomy and goals.
- Not all individuals undergoing male-to-female transition choose to undergo FFS, as the decision is based on personal preferences.
Individuals considering Facial Feminization Surgery typically consult with experienced plastic surgeons specializing in transgender care. These surgeons work closely with patients to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and desired outcomes. The decision to undergo FFS is a personal one, and individuals are encouraged to thoroughly research and consult with qualified healthcare professionals to make informed choices.
- Voice Feminization Surgery:
Voice Feminization Surgery is a set of procedures designed to modify the pitch and tone of the voice, making it more congruent with a feminine gender presentation. It is often pursued by individuals undergoing male-to-female (MTF) transition as part of their overall gender-affirming journey. It’s important to note that voice feminization can also be achieved through non-surgical means, such as speech therapy and vocal training.
Here are key aspects of Voice Feminization Surgery:
- Procedure Types:
- Cricothyroid Approximation (CTA):
- In CTA, the cricothyroid space is reduced, increasing the tension on the vocal cords.
- This can lead to a higher pitch and more feminine vocal quality.
- Vocal Cord Shortening:
- Vocal cord shortening involves adjusting the length of the vocal cords to raise the pitch of the voice.
- Glottoplasty:
- Glottoplasty, or voice feminization laryngoplasty, aims to alter the structure of the vocal cords for a more feminine pitch.
- Cricothyroid Approximation (CTA):
- Timing:
- Voice Feminization Surgery is typically considered after individuals have undergone hormone therapy and have allowed time for their vocal cords to be affected by hormonal changes.
- Combined Approaches:
- Surgery is often complemented by non-surgical approaches such as speech therapy and vocal training to achieve optimal results.
- Recovery and Results:
- Recovery times can vary, and individuals may experience changes in their voice gradually.
- It’s important to have realistic expectations, as the goal is not to create an entirely new voice but to modify the existing voice to be more feminine.
- Considerations:
- Before undergoing Voice Feminization Surgery, individuals typically undergo thorough evaluations, including voice assessments and consultations with speech therapists and surgeons.
- Some individuals may achieve satisfactory voice feminization through non-surgical methods and may choose not to pursue surgery.
- Non-Surgical Options:
- Voice feminization can also be achieved through non-surgical means, including speech therapy, vocal exercises, and working with a speech-language pathologist.
- Non-surgical approaches are often recommended before considering surgery.
It’s crucial for individuals considering Voice Feminization Surgery to consult with qualified healthcare professionals, including experienced surgeons and speech therapists specializing in transgender care. These professionals can provide comprehensive assessments, guidance on the most suitable approaches, and support throughout the process.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue Voice Feminization Surgery is highly individual, and individuals are encouraged to explore different options based on their goals, preferences, and the advice of qualified healthcare providers.
- Tracheal Shave (Adam’s Apple Reduction):
A tracheal shave, also known as Adam’s apple reduction or chondrolaryngoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple (laryngeal prominence) in the throat. This procedure is often pursued by individuals undergoing male-to-female (MTF) gender transition to achieve a more feminine neck profile. Here are key aspects of the tracheal shave:
- Purpose:
- The primary goal of a tracheal shave is to reduce the visibility of the Adam’s apple, which is a secondary sexual characteristic more prominent in individuals assigned male at birth.
- Surgical Technique:
- During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the skin over the Adam’s apple.
- The cartilage of the larynx (thyroid cartilage) is then sculpted or shaved to reduce its size.
- The incision is typically closed with sutures, and the scar is often discreet.
- Timing:
- A tracheal shave is a common component of facial feminization surgery for MTF individuals.
- It can be performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with other feminizing surgeries.
- Recovery:
- Recovery time is usually relatively short compared to more complex surgeries.
- Patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the days following the procedure.
- Most individuals can resume regular activities within a week or two.
- Results:
- The results of a tracheal shave are often subtle but contribute to a more feminine appearance.
- The reduction in the prominence of the Adam’s apple can be aesthetically significant, especially when combined with other feminizing procedures.
- Considerations:
- Individuals considering a tracheal shave undergo thorough consultations with experienced surgeons specializing in transgender care.
- The decision to pursue the procedure is highly personal and varies based on individual preferences and gender-affirming goals.
- Non-Surgical Alternatives:
- Some individuals may choose to use makeup or clothing techniques to minimize the appearance of the Adam’s apple without undergoing surgery.
It’s important for individuals considering a tracheal shave or any gender-affirming procedure to consult with qualified healthcare professionals. Surgeons and healthcare providers specializing in transgender care can provide personalized assessments, discuss available options, and help individuals make informed decisions based on their unique needs and goals.
It’s crucial to note that not all transgender individuals pursue or desire surgery. The decision to undergo gender-affirming procedures is highly personal and varies from person to person. Moreover, being a tomboy does not necessitate or imply any specific surgical interventions.
If you have specific questions about medical procedures related to gender transition or if you are exploring options for yourself or someone else, it’s advisable to consult with qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in transgender healthcare. They can provide personalized guidance based on an individual’s needs and goals.