Transman surgery, also known as female-to-male (FTM) gender-affirming surgery or gender reassignment surgery (GRS), refers to surgical procedures that are performed to help transgender individuals transition from female to male.
These surgeries are a part of the gender-affirming process for many trans men to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. The specific surgeries a trans man may choose can vary depending on individual preferences and needs. Some common transman surgeries include:
- Chest Masculinization Surgery (Top Surgery): This procedure involves removing breast tissue to create a more masculine chest contour. It may also include resizing and repositioning the nipples.
- Metoidioplasty: Metoidioplasty is a procedure that aims to create a neophallus from the clitoral tissue that has been enlarged through hormone therapy. The surgeon releases the ligaments around the clitoris, which allows it to extend outward. In some cases, urethroplasty (the creation of a new urethra) may be performed to allow the individual to urinate from the neophallus.
- Phalloplasty: Phalloplasty is a more complex surgical procedure in which a neophallus is constructed using tissue from other parts of the body, such as the forearm, thigh, or abdomen. This procedure may involve multiple stages and is typically more involved than metoidioplasty.
- Hysterectomy and Oophorectomy: These procedures involve the removal of the uterus and ovaries, respectively, to alleviate dysphoria and prevent the need for future gynecological care.
It’s important to note that not all trans men pursue surgery as part of their transition. Some may opt for hormone therapy and social transition without undergoing surgical procedures. The decision to pursue any medical interventions, including surgery, is a highly personal one and should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals experienced in transgender care.
Additionally, the availability and types of surgeries may vary depending on the healthcare system and the expertise of surgeons in different regions. Trans men considering surgery should seek information from qualified and experienced gender-affirming surgeons to understand the options available to them and make informed decisions based on their own needs and desires.