A consultation for metoidioplasty is an important step in the process of getting this surgery. During the consultation, you will have the opportunity to meet with the surgeon and discuss your goals for the surgery. The surgeon will also assess your eligibility for surgery and answer any questions you may have.
Here are some things you can expect during a consultation for metoidioplasty:
- The surgeon will ask you about your medical history and your reasons for wanting metoidioplasty. They will also want to know about your expectations for the surgery and your desired results.
- The surgeon will perform a physical exam to assess your anatomy and determine if you are a good candidate for surgery. They will also discuss the different surgical techniques that are available and the risks and benefits of each technique.
- The surgeon will give you information about the cost of surgery and the recovery process. They will also discuss the need for follow-up care.
It is important to come to the consultation prepared to ask questions. Some questions you may want to ask include:
- What are the risks and benefits of metoidioplasty?
- What are the different surgical techniques available?
- What are the expected results of surgery?
- What is the recovery process like?
- What are the costs of surgery?
It is also important to be honest with the surgeon about your expectations for the surgery. The surgeon can then help you to determine if metoidioplasty is the right option for you.
After the consultation, you will have time to think about the information that the surgeon has given you. If you decide that metoidioplasty is the right option for you, you can schedule the surgery.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) website: https://www.wpath.org/
- The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/
- The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
During a consultation for metoidioplasty, you can expect the following:
- Discussion of goals: You will have an opportunity to discuss your goals and expectations for the surgery. This may include discussing your desired genital appearance, functionality, and any specific concerns or questions you may have.
- Medical history review: The surgeon will review your medical history, including any relevant medical conditions, previous surgeries, medications, and allergies. They may also inquire about your mental health history to ensure you are in a stable emotional state and well-prepared for the procedure.
- Physical examination: A physical examination of your genital area will be conducted to evaluate the size, shape, and position of the clitoris and surrounding tissues. This examination will help the surgeon determine the feasibility and potential outcomes of metoidioplasty.
- Explanation of the procedure: The surgeon will explain the metoidioplasty procedure in detail, including the techniques used, the steps involved, and the expected outcomes. They will also discuss any potential risks, complications, and limitations associated with the procedure.
- Discussion of options: If applicable, the surgeon may discuss other gender-affirming surgical options, such as phalloplasty or scrotoplasty, and help you understand the pros and cons of each option. They will tailor the discussion to your specific needs and preferences.
- Questions and consent: You will have the opportunity to ask any questions or seek clarification on any aspects of the procedure. The surgeon will ensure that you fully understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives, and obtain your informed consent to proceed with the surgery.
- Pre-operative instructions: The surgeon will provide you with specific pre-operative instructions, which may include guidelines on medications to avoid, preparation for anesthesia, and any necessary tests or evaluations required before the surgery.
- Evaluation of candidacy: Based on the consultation and examination, the surgeon will assess your candidacy for metoidioplasty. They may discuss any additional requirements, such as obtaining letters of support from mental health professionals or fulfilling specific criteria for eligibility.
The consultation is an essential step in the surgical process as it allows you to establish a rapport with the surgeon, gain a thorough understanding of the procedure, and make an informed decision about moving forward with metoidioplasty.