One of the most controversial topics in cosmetic surgery is gender surgery that changes the genitalia of a person from one gender to another. There are individuals who feel unhappy with the gender they have been born with so that they opt for gender reassignment to improve the quality of their life. Most of the patients who have undergone gender surgery covered by trans healthcare tampa fl have been reported to be very happy without any regrets with their choice.
From female to male
Gender surgery from female to male is performed in three stages – the first stage is subcutaneous mastectomy combined with hysterectomy and ovariectomy while the second stage is genital transformation that includes vaginectomy where the horizontal part of the urethra is reconstructed, scrotoplasty and penile reconstruction. After a year, the patient will undergo the last stage which is penile prosthesis and testicular prosthesis to return sensation to the tip of the implanted penis.
Since hormone treatments have little influence on breast size, surgery is performed to create a male chest that will allow the female patient to live more easily as a male. Breast tissue and excess skin will be removed and the mammary fold obliterated. The nipple and areola will be properly positioned for aesthetics. There are different techniques in nipple reduction that depends on the size of the breasts and the prominence of the nipples.
Gender reassignment is usually supported by hormonal therapy provided by an endocrinologist. It is generally accepted that the success of gender surgery is dependent on the ability to adjust the mind to the body and the strong alliance between the plastic surgeon, urologist, mental health professional and the gynaecologist. Patients who are interested in gender surgery must be informed preoperatively on what to expect after the procedures.
From male to female
According to reports, there are more male than female patients that seek gender change although not all of them are willing to undergo gender reassignment. Many different professionals are involved in gender identity disorder from the general practitioner who will diagnose the condition to the psychiatrist and reconstructive surgeon. Oestrogen is usually prescribed to induce feminine characteristics. Individualized hormone therapy is also carried out based on personal goals, the presence of medical conditions and risk-benefit ratio.
Gender realignment techniques that will transform the male external genitalia to that of a female includes removal of the male external genitalia, creation of a functional vagina, creation of a cosmetic vulva, shortening of the urethra, elimination of the erectile corporal tissue and the creation of a functional clitoris.
Plastic surgeons use different surgical techniques in vaginoplasty but the most popular method makes use of the penoscrotal skin flap to create the neovagina. The flaps have their own blood circulation so that there is less tendency for the neovagina to shrink or necrose. Another critical step is the creation of a vaginal cavity between the urethra, bladder and rectum. This procedure requires the exceptional skills and experience of a plastic surgeon who will ensure that the benefits from the gender surgery are fully experienced without any complications.
