Understanding Bottom Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide
Embarking on the journey of gender-affirming surgery is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration and understanding. For many individuals, bottom surgery, also known as genital reconstruction surgery or gender-affirming bottom surgery, plays a crucial role in aligning their physical appearance with their gender identity.
At Reconstructive Surgical Arts, we offer different bottom procedures to help our patients be their true selves. That’s why, in this blog post, we'll explore the common types of bottom surgeries, the process before, during, and after the surgery, as well as other relevant information to provide a clear and informative overview.
What’s Bottom Surgery? Everything You Need To Know
Bottom surgery, also known as genital reconstruction surgery or gender-affirming bottom surgery, is a medical procedure that some transgender or non-binary individuals may choose to undergo. It's a way for them to align their physical body with their gender identity.
For example, someone assigned male at birth who identifies as female might choose a type of bottom surgery called vaginoplasty. This surgery creates a neovagina, which is a new vagina, using some of the person's own tissues.
On the other hand, someone assigned female at birth who identifies as male might opt for a surgery like phalloplasty. This procedure involves constructing a new penis using tissue from another part of their body, like their forearm or thigh.
There are different types of bottom surgeries, each designed to help a person feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin. It's a personal decision, and not everyone decides to have this type of surgery. Those who do often go through a thoughtful process of consultations with specialized surgeons and other medical professionals.
It's important to remember that bottom surgery is just one part of a person's journey toward living authentically as their true self. It can bring a lot of happiness and relief to those who choose it, but it's not the right choice for everyone. The most significant thing is for each individual to make decisions that feel right for them, with the support and understanding of their healthcare team and loved ones.
Common Types of Bottom Surgeries
Vaginoplasty:
Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure that creates a neovagina for individuals assigned male at birth who identify as female. This procedure involves the construction of a functional vaginal canal using penile and scrotal tissue, as well as the reshaping of the external genitalia.
Phalloplasty:
Phalloplasty is a surgical procedure designed to create a neophallus for individuals assigned female at birth who identify as male. This surgery involves the construction of a phallus using tissue grafts, typically from the forearm or thigh, and can also include procedures to create a urethra for urination.
Metoidioplasty:
Metoidioplasty is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and functionality of the clitoris, which has been enlarged through hormone therapy. This procedure can also include the creation of a urethra for standing urination.
Orchiectomy:
An orchiectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both testicles. This procedure is commonly pursued by transgender women (assigned male at birth who identify as female) as part of their gender-affirming journey.
The primary purpose of an orchiectomy is to alleviate gender dysphoria and assist in achieving a more feminine appearance for transgender women. Removing the testicles reduces the production of testosterone, which can help feminizing hormone therapy work more effectively.
The Process: Before, During, and After Surgery
Before Surgery:
Consultation and Assessment:
The first step in the process is to consult with our gender-affirming surgeon at Reconstructive Surgical Art, Dr. McClung, a board-certified urologist with fellowship training in reconstructive and trauma surgery. During this consultation, the surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment, discuss your goals and expectations, and provide information about the available surgical options.
Pre-operative Preparation:
Once you decide to proceed with surgery, you'll undergo a series of pre-operative assessments, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with other healthcare professionals, such as an anesthesiologist.
Mental and Emotional Preparation:
It's essential to prepare mentally and emotionally for the surgical journey. Many individuals find it helpful to connect with support groups, therapists, or other resources that specialize in gender-affirming care.
During Surgery:
Anesthesia and Incisions:
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. For vaginoplasty, incisions are typically made in the perineal area, while for phalloplasty, tissue is harvested from the donor site (forearm or thigh) and shaped into the neophallus.
Tissue Grafting and Reconstruction:
Depending on the chosen procedure, the surgeon will carefully sculpt and shape tissues to create the desired result. For vaginoplasty, the penile and scrotal tissue may be utilized, while for phalloplasty, tissue grafts are used to construct the neophallus.
Urethral Lengthening (if applicable):
In procedures like phalloplasty and some metoidioplasty variations, surgeons may create a urethra to allow for standing urination.
After Surgery:
Recovery and Post-operative Care:
Following surgery, you will stay in the hospital for a period of time for monitoring. Depending on the procedure, you may need to avoid certain activities during the initial recovery phase.
Dilatation and Follow-up Visits:
Vaginoplasty patients may require regular dilatation to maintain the depth and function of the neovagina. Both vaginoplasty and phalloplasty patients will have scheduled follow-up visits with their surgical team to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Emotional Support and Rehabilitation:
Emotional support is crucial during the recovery process. Engaging with support groups and mental health professionals can help navigate the emotional aspects of the surgical journey.
Additional Considerations
Potential Complications:
Like any surgical procedure, bottom surgery carries some risks, which will be discussed thoroughly with your surgical team during the consultation process.
Insurance and Financial Considerations:
It's important to explore insurance coverage and financing options for gender-affirming surgeries. While insurance may be complicated, at Reconstructive Surgical Arts, we have a specialized team of insurance experts that will work hand-in-hand with you to help you obtain in-network status to access your insurance’s benefits.
Check out our list of insurances we accept here and contact us in case you have any questions. Our team will be happy to help you out!
Taking the Next Step: Book a Consultation with Reconstructive Surgical Arts
Embarking on the path towards gender-affirming surgery is a significant and personal decision. If you or someone you know is considering bottom surgery, we encourage you to take the next step by scheduling a consultation with the compassionate and experienced team at Reconstructive Surgical Arts.
Our dedicated professionals are here to provide you with the information, support, and care you need to make informed decisions about your journey. With their expertise, you can explore the options available and find the path that aligns with your unique identity.
Booking a consultation is the first step towards achieving the sense of self and authenticity you deserve. Reach out to us today to start this important conversation. Your journey towards feeling comfortable in your own skin is important, and we're here to support you every step of the way.