Yes, you will likely have visible scars after metoidioplasty. The location and size of the scars will vary depending on the specific procedure performed. However, most surgeons make incisions in the area of the clitoral hood and labia minora. These incisions are typically closed with stitches or staples, which will eventually dissolve or be removed.
The scars from metoidioplasty will fade over time, but they will never completely disappear. The amount of fading will vary from person to person, but most people find that the scars become less noticeable over the course of a few years.
There are a few things you can do to help minimize the appearance of the scars after metoidioplasty:
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions for scar care. This may include applying scar cream or ointment, massaging the scars, or avoiding sun exposure.
- Be patient. It takes time for scars to fade. Don’t expect them to disappear overnight.
- Consider tattooing. If you are concerned about the appearance of the scars, you may want to consider tattooing over them. This can help to camouflage the scars and make them less noticeable.
It is important to remember that everyone’s body heals differently. Some people may have more visible scars than others. However, most people find that the scars from metoidioplasty are not very noticeable and do not interfere with their daily lives.
Metoidioplasty typically results in some scarring, but the extent and visibility of the scars can vary depending on several factors, including the surgical technique used, your individual healing process, and how your body forms scars.
During metoidioplasty, incisions are made in the genital area to release the ligaments that restrict the growth of the clitoris. Additional incisions may be made for urethral lengthening or other procedures associated with metoidioplasty, such as scrotoplasty or testicular implants.
The scars from metoidioplasty are generally located in the genital area and may fade over time. However, they may remain visible, especially during the initial healing phase. Your surgeon will make efforts to place the incisions in discreet areas and provide guidance on scar management techniques to minimize their appearance.
It’s important to discuss the potential scarring with your surgeon during the consultation process. They can show you examples of previous patients’ results and provide you with information on scar care and management post-surgery. Following your surgeon’s instructions for wound care and scar management, such as keeping the incisions clean and applying scar-reducing treatments, can help optimize the healing process and minimize the visibility of scars over time.