Metoidioplasty is a type of gender-affirming surgery that is performed on transgender men and some non-binary people. The surgery involves the release and reshaping of the clitoris to create a phallus.

There are many factors that can determine whether someone is a good candidate for metoidioplasty. These include:

• Age: Most surgeons recommend that people wait until they are at least 18 years old before having metoidioplasty. However, there may be exceptions to this rule, depending on the individual’s circumstances.
• Mental and emotional health: Metoidioplasty is a major surgery, and it is important to be mentally and emotionally prepared for the changes it will bring. People who are considering metoidioplasty should talk to a therapist or counselor to make sure they are making the right decision for themselves.
• Physical health: People who are considering metoidioplasty should be in generally good health. They should have no major health conditions that could complicate the surgery or the recovery process.
• Expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations about what metoidioplasty can achieve. Metoidioplasty can create a phallus that is capable of standing to urinate, but it is not typically large enough for penetrative sex.
• Clitoral growth: The amount of clitoral growth that has occurred as a result of testosterone therapy is an important factor in determining whether someone is a good candidate for metoidioplasty. People who have experienced significant clitoral growth are more likely to have good results from the surgery.

If you are considering metoidioplasty, it is important to talk to a surgeon about your individual circumstances and expectations. The surgeon will be able to assess your eligibility for surgery and help you make the best decision for yourself.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care: https://www.wpath.org/publications/soc
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/
• The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Here are some additional things to consider when deciding if metoidioplasty is right for you:

• The cost of surgery: Metoidioplasty can be expensive, so it is important to factor in the cost when making your decision.
• The recovery time: The recovery time for metoidioplasty is typically 4-6 weeks. During this time, you will need to take care of your incisions and wear a compression garment. You may also experience some pain and discomfort.
• The impact on your life: Metoidioplasty can have a significant impact on your life. You may need to take time off from work or school, and you may need to adjust your activities. It is important to consider how the surgery will affect your life before making a decision.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have metoidioplasty 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.

A good candidate for metoidioplasty is an individual assigned female at birth who identifies as male or non-binary and desires to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. However, the specific eligibility criteria may vary among surgeons and healthcare providers. Generally, the following factors are considered when determining candidacy for metoidioplasty:

1. Hormonal therapy: Most surgeons prefer candidates who have undergone testosterone hormone therapy for a certain period of time to achieve some degree of genital growth and masculinization of the body.
2. Age and physical maturity: Metoidioplasty is typically performed on individuals who have reached physical maturity, usually around 18 years of age or older. However, some surgeons may consider performing metoidioplasty on individuals who are younger if they have demonstrated a stable gender identity and meet other eligibility criteria.
3. Mental and emotional readiness: It is important for individuals considering metoidioplasty to have realistic expectations, understand the potential risks and benefits, and be mentally and emotionally prepared for the surgical process and potential changes in body image.
4. Good overall health: Candidates for metoidioplasty should be in good general health, without any significant medical conditions that may increase the risks of surgery or hinder the healing process.
5. Gender dysphoria assessment: Prior to undergoing metoidioplasty, individuals may need to undergo a psychological evaluation or assessment to ensure that they have a stable gender identity, understand the implications of the procedure, and have appropriate support systems in place.

It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon who specializes in transgender surgeries to discuss your individual circumstances, goals, and eligibility for metoidioplasty. They will be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you through the decision-making process.