For many trans people, accessing gender-affirming surgery is a profound and deeply personal necessity, closely tied to their transition. However, in many countries, this right is not guaranteed, or there is a lack of experienced and specialized medical professionals to perform these procedures. In fact, in some parts of the world, legal, social, or healthcare barriers make transitioning a path full of obstacles or even danger for trans people. That’s why more and more individuals choose to travel to Spain for trans surgery in a safe, professional, and respectful environment.
With this article, we aim to provide information on the medical, legal, and social aspects of undergoing trans surgery in Spain through IM GENDER, an international reference in gender-affirming surgery.
Trans Law in Spain: Why Travel to This Country?
Spain is one of the countries with the highest legal and social recognition of LGTBIQ+ people, and especially the trans community. The recent Law 4/2023 for the Real and Effective Equality of Trans People and the Guarantee of LGTBIQ+ Rights – commonly known as the “Trans Law” – recognizes the right to gender identity without requiring medical documentation. It also protects members of the community from discrimination in healthcare, employment, education, and social spheres.
But it’s not only about social context – Spain also stands out for having highly qualified professionals in trans surgery, safe and effective medical and surgical protocols, advanced medical technology, and a generally supportive social environment. Within this framework, IM GENDER has established itself as one of Europe’s leading private clinics for gender-affirming surgery, offering international care in multiple languages. Our multidisciplinary medical team is specialized, sensitive, and committed to providing respectful care and support throughout the entire process.
What Types of Trans Surgery Can I Get at IM GENDER?
At IM GENDER, we offer the full spectrum of gender-affirming surgeries, including both genital and non-genital procedures. Each surgery is personalized and planned according to the individual’s goals, medical history, and stage in their transition. The IM GENDER team respects and celebrates that every trans person seeking surgery should be involved in all decisions related to their procedure.
Some of the most requested surgeries by international patients include:
Genital Surgery
- Trans vaginoplasty: penile inversion, colovaginoplasty, with graft, peritoneal, vulvoplasty, or zero-depth vaginoplasty
- Metoidioplasty and phalloplasty
- Hysterectomy, orchiectomy, vaginectomy, post-phalloplasty aesthetics, testicular implants
- Nullification surgery
- Revision or reoperation of previous procedures
Facial Surgery
- Facial feminization: frontoplasty, hairline advancement, jaw reshaping, tracheal shave, buccal fat removal, lip lift, feminizing facelift, etc.
- Facial masculinization for trans men
- Hair transplant
Body Surgery
- Trans breast augmentation
- Bilateral mastectomy
- Body feminization: liposuction, liposculpture, lipofilling, buttock augmentation, abdominoplasty, calf implants, etc.
- Body masculinization: liposuction, pectoral implants, abdominal etching, etc.
Can I Have Surgery in Spain If I’m Not a Resident?
Spain’s public healthcare system only provides trans surgeries to individuals with legal residency in the country. Additionally, there are currently long waiting lists.
However, private clinics like IM GENDER are open to international patients – provided they are in good general health and undergo a specific pre-surgical medical evaluation, which can be done either in person or online.
What’s the Process Like If I’m Coming from Another Country?
The international coordination and medical team at IM GENDER supports each patient through every stage of the journey. The process generally includes:
- Initial online consultation: medical interview and Q&A
- Pre-surgical evaluation: exams, medical history, and surgical planning
- Travel organization: dates, lodging, transportation, and support
- Surgery and hospitalization: performed by specialized staff with multilingual support
- Postoperative care: both at the clinic and remotely after returning home
We recommend planning a stay of at least 2 to 3 weeks in Spain depending on the type of surgery, and being accompanied by trusted people who wish to support you through this important step.
Specialized International Care at IM GENDER
With over 25 years of experience in gender-affirming surgery, IM GENDER is recognized as one of the most respected surgical centers internationally. In fact, 50% of our patients come from countries such as the United States, Italy, France, Germany, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, China, Singapore, and many other regions of Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.
This long-standing experience allows us to offer specialized services for individuals traveling to Spain for gender-affirming surgery. These include online medical consultations, multilingual support, assistance with various administrative procedures required for gender confirmation surgery, accommodation in hotels located very close to the clinic, online post-surgical follow-up, and more. All of this is aimed at providing each person with personalized care tailored to their needs.
What’s the Social and Legal Climate for Trans People in Spain?
Spain is one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to LGTBIQ+ rights. Spanish law allows for legal name and gender changes without the need for a medical report, and there are specific anti-discrimination laws in place. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid are known for their high visibility of trans communities, activism, culture, and community life.
As a result, many foreign trans individuals describe their experience in Spain as one of respect, safety, and validation.
What If I Haven’t Legally Changed My Name Yet?
That’s not a barrier to having surgery in Spain. IM GENDER will recognize and treat you in accordance with your gender identity from the first contact. Our medical and administrative staff will use your chosen name at all times, regardless of what appears in your legal documents.
Our team is trained in human rights and inclusive language, and we are pioneers in trans healthcare in Spain, with over 25 years of experience and more than 4,000 gender surgeries performed.
Traveling for Gender-Affirming Surgery
Choosing to undergo surgery in another country is not a simple decision. It requires trust, information, and support. But it can also be an opportunity to fully embrace your identity in a medical and human environment that respects and supports you every step of the way.
At IM GENDER, we’ve supported thousands of trans people from around the world with professionalism, compassion, and a commitment to empowering individuals in every step of their surgical journey.
Are You Thinking About Traveling to Spain for Your Trans Surgery?
At IM GENDER, we’ve been supporting people from all over the world for over 25 years — with professionalism, humanity, and experience.
