Phalloplasty Results

Phalloplasty can provide functional benefits, such as the ability to urinate while standing. This is achieved through urethral lengthening, where a new urethra is created using tissue from the vagina or labia.

Moreover, when combined with the placement of a penile prosthesis, the neophallus can achieve rigidity, enabling penetrative intercourse. This is one of the main advantages of phalloplasty over metoidioplasty, which does not permit penetration due to the smaller size of the neophallus.

Phalloplasty aims to retain sexual sensation. The neophallus can have both tactile (touch) and erogenous sensitivity, depending on how well the nerve connections establish and the patient’s healing process.

For those seeking the possibility of penetrative intercourse, the insertion of a penile implant in a secondary procedure can allow the neophallus to achieve an erection. While this may require additional surgeries and recovery time, it enables a more complete male sexual experience.

Most patients report being able to achieve orgasm after phalloplasty, although the sensation may differ from what they experienced prior to surgery. As this is highly personal, it’s important to have a thorough discussion with your surgical team regarding expected outcomes.

The final appearance of the neophallus can be different depending on the chosen donor site and surgical technique, but the aim is to create a realistic penis that aligns with the patient’s gender identity and personal preferences.

Patients can choose additional procedures such as post-phalloplasty aesthetic refinements to further enhance the realism of the penis. Among the techniques that you will find at IM GENDER, the most outstanding are neophallus micropigmentation, fat grafting onto the arm and laser removal of scars.

Recovery after phalloplasty is a process that can take several months. Initial symptoms like swelling, bruising and discomfort are common, but they typically subside within the first few weeks. Full healing may take up to a year, depending on the number of procedures performed and how the patient responds to surgery.

It’s important to follow the surgical team’s post-operative care instructions, attend regular check-ups and monitor for any signs of complications. Achieving full sensation and functionality in the neophallus may take time, but following your medical team’s guidance will support a smoother recovery.

Like any surgery, phalloplasty comes with potential risks and complications. Some of the most common issues are:

• Infection
• Urinary retention
• Catheter complications
• Urine leakage
• Fever
• Wound dehiscence.
• Redness and swelling of the phallus.
• Increased pain.

Maintaining regular follow-ups and staying in close contact with your surgical team is important during the recovery period. A 24 hour phone line will be available for you to make your inquiries.

One of the most common queries for patients considering gender-affirming surgery is how the results of phalloplasty compare to metoidioplasty. Although both procedures aim to create a functional penis, the results vary in terms of size, sensation and function.

Phalloplasty results in a larger penis that can have penetrative intercourse when combined with a penile prosthesis. Metoidioplasty, creates a smaller penis that cannot achieve penetration but retains a high degree of erogenous sensitivity. Phalloplasty is a more complex surgical procedure with a longer recovery period, but it provides a larger neophallus and the potential for penetration.

Phalloplasty can have a psychological impact, improving mental health and quality of life for many patients. The surgery often resolves gender dysphoria related to genital appearance and functionality, helping individuals feel more aligned with their gender identity.

The psychological benefits are closely related to the physical and functional outcomes of the surgery. Being able to urinate while standing, achieving a desired aesthetic and engaging in satisfying sexual activity all contribute to an enhanced sense of well-being and confidence. It’s important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for an emotional adjustment period after surgery.