Our Summary
This research paper discusses a surgical procedure called penile inversion vaginoplasty that is often used to help transgender individuals feel more comfortable in their bodies. Despite the fact that there can be complications, many patients report being happy with the results. The risks associated with this surgery are similar to those of other surgeries that reconstruct the genitals, such as those performed for cancer or birth defects. The paper also highlights the difficulty in defining and managing any complications that arise from this procedure. Lastly, it reviews ways to measure patient satisfaction following the surgery.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of penile inversion vaginoplasty?
- What are the potential complications of a vaginoplasty procedure?
- How is patient satisfaction measured after a vaginoplasty procedure?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vaginoplasty is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications and promote successful healing. This may include keeping the surgical area clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results from your vaginoplasty procedure.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for vaginoplasty are transgender individuals who experience gender dysphoria and wish to alleviate it by aligning their physical appearance with their gender identity. This procedure can improve their quality of life and overall well-being. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations and be mentally and emotionally prepared for the surgery and the post-operative care that follows. The decision to undergo vaginoplasty should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in transgender healthcare.
Timeline
Before vaginoplasty:
- Patient undergoes psychological evaluation and counseling to assess readiness for surgery
- Patient may need to undergo hormone therapy prior to surgery
- Patient schedules consultation with a surgeon to discuss the procedure and expectations
- Patient may need to obtain letters of support from mental health professionals
- Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery
After vaginoplasty:
- Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery
- Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the surgical area
- Patient is instructed on how to care for the surgical site and manage pain
- Patient may need to take time off work or limit physical activity during the recovery period
- Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any complications
- Patient may need to undergo dilation therapy to maintain the depth and width of the vagina
- Patient may experience improved self-esteem, body image, and quality of life post-surgery.
What to Ask Your Doctor
What are the potential risks and complications associated with vaginoplasty?
How will the surgery impact my sexual function and sensation?
What is the recovery process like and how long will it take?
Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in the future?
How many vaginoplasty procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery?
What are the expected outcomes in terms of appearance and function?
How soon after the surgery can I resume physical activities and sexual intercourse?
What type of follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?
Are there any potential long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of?
Reference
Authors: Hontscharuk R, Alba B, Hamidian Jahromi A, Schechter L. Journal: Andrology. 2021 Nov;9(6):1732-1743. doi: 10.1111/andr.13030. Epub 2021 May 27. PMID: 33955679