Transgender surgery from female to male (FTM) can vary depending on the individual’s needs and goals. However, there are some common steps that many FTM people take.
The first step is typically to see a therapist who specializes in transgender care. This therapist can help the individual explore their gender identity and develop a treatment plan that is right for them.
Once the individual has decided that they want to transition, they may start hormone therapy. Hormone therapy can help to masculinize the body, including changes in body hair, fat distribution, and muscle mass.
Some FTM people may also choose to have surgery. There are two main types of surgery that FTM people may have: top surgery and bottom surgery.
⦁ Top surgery refers to any surgical procedure that alters the chest to create a more masculine appearance. Top surgery for FTM individuals typically involves a mastectomy (removal of the breasts) and chest masculinization.
⦁ Bottom surgery refers to any surgical procedure that alters the genitals to create a more masculine appearance. Bottom surgery for FTM individuals typically involves metoidioplasty (enlargement of the clitoris to create a penis-like structure) or phalloplasty (creation of a penis from other body tissue).
The process of transitioning from female to male can be long and complex. However, it can be a very rewarding experience for those who feel that it is right for them.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
⦁ World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care: https://www.wpath.org/publications/soc
⦁ Transgender Surgery: What Happens, Risks & Benefits: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21526-gender-affirmation-confirmation-or-sex-reassignment-surgery
⦁ The Trans Center: Transgender Surgery for Transmen: https://thetranscenter.com/transmen/
Transgender surgery, also known as gender confirmation surgery or gender reassignment surgery, involves a series of procedures designed to align an individual’s physical characteristics with their gender identity. For individuals assigned female at birth who identify as male, the surgical options typically include:
⦁ Chest Reconstruction (Top Surgery): Chest reconstruction surgery is commonly performed for transgender men to create a more masculine chest appearance. The procedure involves removing breast tissue and reshaping the chest to create a flatter and more masculine contour. Different techniques may be used depending on factors such as chest size and desired outcomes.
⦁ Genital Reconstruction (Bottom Surgery):
⦁ Metoidioplasty: Metoidioplasty is a surgical procedure that involves releasing the clitoral tissue to create a small phallus that can become erect when sexually aroused. It may also involve additional procedures such as scrotoplasty (creation of a scrotum) and urethroplasty (lengthening of the urethra).
⦁ Phalloplasty: Phalloplasty is a more complex surgical procedure that involves constructing a neophallus (new penis) using tissue grafts from other parts of the body, such as the forearm or thigh. It may involve multiple stages and additional procedures to create a functional penis.
It’s important to note that not all transgender men pursue genital reconstruction surgery, as it is a personal decision that depends on individual preferences and goals. Some transgender men may opt for hormone therapy and chest reconstruction surgery without pursuing genital reconstruction.
The decision to undergo transgender surgery is highly individual and should be made in consultation with experienced healthcare professionals who specialize in transgender healthcare. They can provide personalized guidance, discuss the available options, potential risks, expected outcomes, and post-operative care specific to your circumstances and goals. It is crucial to have a thorough understanding of the surgical process, potential risks, and realistic expectations before making any decisions.