Gender affirming surgery, also known as gender confirmation surgery or sex reassignment surgery, is a medical procedure that individuals may elect to undergo as part of their gender transition. The procedure is designed to align an individual’s physical anatomy with their identified gender, and it can involve a variety of surgical techniques depending on the desired outcome. For transgender women (male-to-female), the surgery may include procedures such as vaginoplasty, breast augmentation, and facial feminization. For transgender men (female-to-male), it may involve chest masculinization (top surgery), phalloplasty, or metoidioplasty. Each procedure is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals, typically following a comprehensive evaluation and consultation process with healthcare providers specializing in transgender health.

The process for undergoing gender affirming surgery involves several critical steps. Initially, individuals work closely with their healthcare provider to undergo a psychological assessment, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for the changes that accompany the surgery. Physicians often require documentation of persistent gender dysphoria, as well as a referral letter from a mental health professional. Once cleared for surgery, pre-operative preparations might include hormone therapy, which aids in the development of physical traits corresponding to the individual’s gender identity. The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia and may require an inpatient hospital stay. Post-operative care is crucial and typically involves a recovery period with follow-up appointments to monitor healing and manage any complications. Overall, gender affirming surgery can be a deeply affirming and transformative process, providing individuals with a greater sense of congruence between their identity and physical appearance.