MTF Transition and Multiple Surgical Procedures

The decision to transition your gender identity is a very personal one that requires careful thought and consideration. Some people do not include medical procedures as a part of their transition, others choose some procedures, while still others desire a complete physical transformation.

There is no one-size-fits-all surgical approach to transition. There are multiple procedures that can enhance your physical and emotional well-being. The right procedures for your body will ultimately depend on your cosmetic goals and health.

Some of the most common MTF surgical procedures include:

• Breast augmentation
• Facial feminization
• Thyroid cartilage reduction
• Orchiectomy
• Penectomy
• Vaginoplasty
• Labiaplasty
• Clitoroplasty
• Abdominoplasty
• Scalp surgery
• Voice Surgery

Multiple Procedures

If multiple procedures are required to reach your cosmetic goals, you may elect to have multiple procedures performed in a single surgery.

However, not all procedures can be performed in tandem with one another. A good surgical plan will include a well-thought-out combination of procedures. Your surgeon will work with you to determine which procedures, if any, can be combined during the consultation process.

Costs and Benefits of Combining Procedures

Benefits – Surgical fees come in three categories: facility fees, anesthesia fees and surgeon’s fees. Combining two or more surgical procedures into a single session will reduce costs related to anesthesia and facility fees and there are commonly reductions in surgeon’s fees for multiple procedures. Combining multiple procedures is also more convenient for most patients because  it reduces the length of your recovery, which means you’ll require less time off from work and other routines.

Costs – Combining multiple procedures may increase the risk of surgical complications. One of the biggest concerns is related to extended time under general anesthesia and the increase in difficulty recovering from multiple procedures at once. A longer anesthesia time may lead to greater risk for cardiovascular complications and a longer recovery period. As beneficial as combining procedures can be, it’s critical to understand both the risks and benefits in advance of surgery.