Our Summary

This research paper discusses a surgical procedure known as orchiectomy, which is the removal of one or both testicles. This procedure is a simple, low-risk operation that can be a step towards gender transitioning for transgender individuals. It stops production of testosterone, which can reduce the need for hormone treatments. The procedure also preserves healthy tissue for possible future sex reassignment surgery. The researchers suggest that orchiectomy should be routinely offered as an option for those who cannot easily access specialized transgender surgery centers.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of an orchiectomy in the context of gender affirmation?
  2. How does an orchiectomy procedure impact future sex reassignment surgeries?
  3. Why might an orchiectomy be offered as an alternative to vaginoplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vaginoplasty is to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgical team. This may include recommendations for rest, wound care, pain management, and follow-up appointments. It is important to communicate any concerns or complications with your healthcare provider promptly to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for vaginoplasty are those who have gender dysphoria and desire to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. Vaginoplasty is a gender affirming surgery commonly performed on transgender women, non-binary individuals, and other transgender individuals who wish to have female genitalia. These patients may have already undergone hormone therapy and other gender affirming surgeries, such as breast augmentation or facial feminization surgery, and are now seeking a surgical procedure to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing vagina. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and be in good overall health before undergoing vaginoplasty.

Timeline

Before vaginoplasty:

  1. Consultation with a gender-affirming surgeon to discuss surgical options and medical history
  2. Psychological evaluation to assess readiness for surgery and ensure understanding of potential risks and benefits
  3. Hormone therapy to prepare the body for surgery and promote feminization
  4. Pre-operative testing, such as blood work and imaging, to ensure the patient is in good health for surgery
  5. Consent process to review the surgical procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes

After vaginoplasty:

  1. Post-operative care in the hospital or surgical center, including pain management and monitoring for complications
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns
  3. Dilating the new vaginal canal to maintain depth and width
  4. Hormone therapy adjustments as needed to support healing and promote feminization
  5. Psychotherapy to support emotional adjustment and adaptation to the new anatomical changes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vaginoplasty?
  2. What is the expected recovery time after vaginoplasty?
  3. How will vaginoplasty affect my sexual function and sensation?
  4. Will I need to undergo any additional surgeries or procedures in the future after vaginoplasty?
  5. What are the long-term effects of vaginoplasty on my overall health and well-being?
  6. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to vaginoplasty that I should consider?
  7. How many vaginoplasty procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  8. How should I prepare for vaginoplasty, both physically and emotionally?
  9. What type of aftercare and follow-up will be needed after vaginoplasty?
  10. Are there any support groups or resources available for transgender individuals considering vaginoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Hehemann MC, Walsh TJ. Journal: Urol Clin North Am. 2019 Nov;46(4):505-510. doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2019.07.005. PMID: 31582025