WHAT ARE THE SURGICAL PROCEDURES FOR FTM?
Gender affirmation surgery, also known as gender reassignment surgery, is an important step for many transgender individuals who wish to align their bodies with their gender identity. For those assigned females at birth who identify as male, or trans men, there are several surgical procedures available to help achieve this goal. In this article, we will discuss the different surgical procedures available for FTM individuals, as well as their benefits and risks.
Before we dive into the specifics of the surgical procedures, it's important to note that not all transgender individuals choose to undergo surgery as part of their transition. Each person's journey is unique, and surgery is just one of many options available to aid in gender affirmation.
Now, let's take a closer look at the surgical procedures available for FTM individuals.
Top Surgery
The first surgical procedure that many FTM individuals consider is top surgery. This procedure involves the removal of breast tissue and the creation of a more masculine chest. There are two main types of top surgery: double incision and periareolar.
Double incision top surgery involves making an incision across the chest and removing excess breast tissue. The nipple is then resized and repositioned to create a more masculine appearance. This procedure is often recommended for those with larger breasts.
Periareolar top surgery, on the other hand, involves making an incision around the edge of the areola and removing the breast tissue through that opening. This technique is often recommended for those with smaller breasts.
Both types of top surgery have their own benefits and risks, and the decision on which one to choose should be made in consultation with a qualified surgeon.
Hysterectomy and Oophorectomy
Another surgical procedure that FTM individuals may consider is a hysterectomy and oophorectomy. A hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, while an oophorectomy is the removal of the ovaries.
This surgery is often recommended for FTM individuals who do not wish to carry a pregnancy and/or do not wish to have periods. It can also be beneficial for those who experience dysphoria related to their reproductive organs.
It's important to note that removing the uterus and ovaries can have long-term health implications, such as an increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. Hormone replacement therapy may be necessary to offset these risks.
Metoidioplasty is a surgical procedure that involves releasing the clitoral hood and extending the clitoris to create a penis-like structure. This procedure is often recommended for FTM individuals with a naturally enlarged clitoris due to testosterone use.
Metoidioplasty has several benefits, including the ability to stand to urinate and improved sexual function. However, it may not be suitable for those who desire a larger penis.
Phalloplasty is a surgical procedure that involves creating a penis from skin grafts, typically taken from the forearm or thigh. This procedure is often recommended for FTM individuals who desire a larger penis.
Phalloplasty has several benefits, including the ability to stand to urinate and improved sexual function. However, it is a complex surgery that often requires multiple stages and has a longer recovery time than other surgical procedures.
Scrotoplasty
is a surgical procedure that involves creating a scrotum from the labia majora. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with metoidioplasty or phalloplasty.
Scrotoplasty has several benefits, including improved aesthetic appearance and the ability to receive testicular implants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, several surgical procedures are available for FTM individuals who wish to align their bodies with their gender identity. Each procedure has its own benefits and risks, and the decision on which one to choose should be made in consultation with a qualified surgeon and based on the individual's unique needs and goals. It's important to note that surgery is just one part of the gender affirmation process and that each person's journey is unique. Other aspects of transition, such as hormone therapy and social transition, should also be discussed with a healthcare provider. With the right support and resources, FTM individuals can take steps towards living their most authentic selves.
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