There are several different techniques used in phalloplasty, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common techniques are:
- Radial forearm free flap phalloplasty: This is the most common type of phalloplasty. It involves taking a skin flap from the forearm and using it to create a new phallus. The flap is attached to the body with microsurgery, and the urethra is reconstructed.
- Anterior lateral thigh flap phalloplasty: This type of phalloplasty is similar to radial forearm free flap phalloplasty, but it uses skin from the thigh instead of the forearm.
- Abdominal flap phalloplasty: This type of phalloplasty uses skin from the abdomen to create a new phallus. The flap is attached to the body with microsurgery, and the urethra is reconstructed.
- Laparoscopically assisted anterolateral thigh flap phalloplasty: This is a newer technique that uses a laparoscope to help with the surgery. This can make the surgery less invasive and can shorten the recovery time.
- Thigh flap phalloplasty with urethral lengthening: This type of phalloplasty uses skin from the thigh to create a new phallus and also uses the urethra from the patient’s natal anatomy.
The specific technique that is right for you will depend on your individual anatomy, preferences, and goals. It is important to talk to a surgeon about your options to decide which technique is best for you.
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing a phalloplasty technique:
- The size of your phallus: If you want a larger phallus, you may need a technique that uses more tissue, such as radial forearm free flap phalloplasty.
- Your desired results: If you want a phallus that is as similar to a cis male phallus as possible, you may want to choose a technique that uses a urethral graft.
- Your recovery time: The recovery time for phalloplasty varies depending on the technique. Radial forearm free flap phalloplasty typically has the longest recovery time, while laparoscopically assisted anterolateral thigh flap phalloplasty has the shortest recovery time.
- The cost of surgery: The cost of phalloplasty varies depending on the technique and the surgeon. It is important to factor in the cost of surgery when making your decision.
Ultimately, the decision of which phalloplasty technique is right for you is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and what is right for one person may not be right for another. It is important to talk to a surgeon and a therapist or counselor to get the information you need to make the best decision for yourself.
Phalloplasty is a complex surgical procedure that involves various techniques to construct or reconstruct a penis. The specific technique chosen depends on factors such as patient preference, anatomy, surgeon expertise, and individualized goals. Here are some commonly used techniques in phalloplasty:
- Radial Forearm Flap: This technique uses tissue from the forearm, typically the radial artery, to create the neophallus. The donor site is usually the non-dominant arm. The tissue is shaped and tubularized to form the penis, and the blood vessels and nerves are carefully connected.
- Anterolateral Thigh (ALT) Flap: The ALT flap technique involves using tissue from the upper thigh, along with its blood vessels, to construct the neophallus. The tissue is sculpted into the desired shape and connected to the pelvic region.
- Musculocutaneous Latissimus Dorsi (MLD) Flap: This technique utilizes tissue from the back, specifically the latissimus dorsi muscle, along with overlying skin and fat. The tissue is reshaped to form the phallus, and blood vessels and nerves are connected.
- Fibula Osteocutaneous Flap: In this technique, the fibula bone from the lower leg is used along with its overlying soft tissue to create the neophallus. The fibula bone provides rigidity, and the soft tissue is shaped to resemble a penis.
- Radial Forearm Osteocutaneous Flap: Similar to the radial forearm flap, this technique incorporates a segment of the radial bone along with the forearm tissue. The bone provides additional structural support to the neophallus.
These are some of the main techniques used in phalloplasty, but it’s important to note that there may be variations or combinations of these techniques depending on the patient’s specific needs and the surgeon’s expertise. Additionally, other procedures like urethral lengthening, glansplasty (creation of the glans), scrotoplasty (creation of a scrotum), and erectile device implantation may be performed in conjunction with the chosen phalloplasty technique to achieve desired functional and aesthetic outcomes.
It’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in transgender healthcare or gender-affirming surgeries to determine the most appropriate technique for your individual circumstances and desired outcomes. They can provide detailed information about the techniques, potential risks, benefits, and help you make informed decisions regarding your phalloplasty procedure.