Phalloplasty for gender affirmation is, after mastectomy, the most requested gender affirmation surgery for trans men. The men considering this surgery are doing so at a younger and younger age. According to the data available to IM GENDER, while in 2003 the average age at which a trans man underwent surgery to recreate a neophallus was 29 years, the average age has since fallen by ten years. This is why in this post we would like to answer some of the questions about phalloplasty that IM GENDER patients ask us in consultation.
One very common question asked by men who visit a specialist for the first time concerns the difference between the two techniques of gender affirmation surgery in trans men: phalloplasty and metoidioplasty. These are two quite different techniques that achieve very different results, which is why we recommend that you read our post “Phalloplasty or metoidioplasty?” It is a particularly important question.
In this post, we will focus on phalloplasty for gender affirmation.
Frequently asked questions about phalloplasty for gender affirmation
How many stages are required to complete a phalloplasty for gender affirmation?
Unlike other comparable forms of surgery, phalloplasty for gender affirmation needs to be performed in different surgical steps that are carried out at different time intervals, with the result that the time between the first and the last operation is longer than in other types of gender affirmation surgery.
Thus, the surgeon will start with the phalloplasty technique itself. Between 6 months and a year after this surgery, testicular implants are put in place, which usually require two separate procedures so that the scrotal sac can get used to the shape and weight of the prostheses in a natural way. And finally, the last step the surgeon will perform is the placement of the phallus prosthesis.
Which area of the body will the donor skin be taken from?
During your first appointment, your surgeon will locate the donor site for the phalloplasty for gender affirmation. Generally, skin from the arms is used because it has stronger arteries and veins. However, skin from the thigh may also be used. This will depend on each case, as an individual study will be carried out on each trans man.
What is the recommended size for phalloplasty?
They always try to make the phallus as big as the trans man’s body allows, while always respecting certain proportions. In addition, subsequent operations can increase its thickness and slightly increase its length using fat padding.
Does phalloplasty for gender affirmation give the penis a realistic appearance?
The phallus will have the shape, dimensions and appearance of a phallus. However, it should not be forgotten that it is created using skin from the arm, so it will have the same colouring as this area. To improve the appearance of the phallus a series of aestheic treatments is available after phalloplasty aimed at achieving a phallus with a more appropriate colouring and vein structures. One of the most popular treatments is often phallus micropigmentation, which imitates the aesthetic structures of a natural penis.
Is it important to follow post-surgical recommendations?
After-care and post-operative treatment is an important part of recovery, so following the advice of the medical team and having clear guidelines on how to proceed after the phalloplasty operation are especially important factors. Likewise, you should attend all post-phalloplasty medical appointments and contact the medical team if you have any queries of any kind.
What should you do in the event of post-operative complications after phalloplasty?
The medical team will tell you how to avoid possible complications. In addition, if there are any queries or anomalies, patients should consult their doctor for a solution. Possible complications include urethrocutaneous fistulas, infection, bleeding and extrusion of the testicular prosthesis.
How many days will I be hospitalised after the phalloplasty operation?
After phalloplasty for gender affirmation surgery, you must stay in hospital for at least one week. This ensures the best possible monitoring of your progress by the medical team. It also offers both the patients and the persons accompanying them the comfortable conditions that are necessary for recovery.
Where can I see examples of the results of phalloplasty for gender affirmation?
On our website, in addition to information about the procedure, you can find videos, testimonials and actual results of the surgical operations performed at IM GENDER.
If you have any further questions about phalloplasty for gender affirmation or other gender affirmation surgery, please contact IM GENDER. Make an appointment here.
If you have more questions about what phalloplasty involves, make an appointment with the IM GENDER team and we will inform you.