Gender-affirming surgeries are to help individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity. It often improves the well-being and mental health of individuals. Minimally invasive surgery is meant to reduce recovery time and invasiveness. Surgeons will use smaller incisions for less visible scars. The number of gender-affirming surgeries in the United States tripled between 2016 and 2019. A study by the JAMA Network Open found many surgeries are outpatient. The trend shows growing social acceptance. Insurance coverage has supported this trend as well.
What are Minimally Invasive Gender-Affirming Surgeries?
Minimally invasive gender-affirming surgeries use advanced tools and techniques. They minimize the size and number of incisions. It can reduce tissue damage and promote a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery. The rise of minimally invasive surgery offers more options for transgender and non-binary individuals. They can provide fewer risks and quicker recoveries. Minimally invasive surgeries can empower more people to pursue surgery to align gender identity.
There are several types of minimally invasive gender-affirming procedures. Minimally invasive chest surgery uses smaller incisions under the pectoral muscles. Breast tissue is removed for a masculine appearance. Chest feminization surgery can be done using small incisions. Implants can be inserted in the armpit or around the areola. Brow lifts can be performed with minimally invasive techniques. Tiny incisions are made at the hairline. Jaw contouring and chin reduction procedures can use small incisions inside the mouth to avoid visible scars.
Certain bottom surgeries can be minimally invasive to prepare for a phalloplasty or metoidioplasty. This reduces trauma to tissue. Steps toward removing ovaries or the uterus can be made with small incisions as well. This can be less painful than traditional procedures. For example, a hysterectomy can be done through small incisions in the abdomen. Transgender women or non-binary individuals can have bottom surgery through minimally invasive techniques for less discomfort after surgery. Liposuction to reduce fat in certain areas can be minimally invasive. Lasers or freezing techniques can reduce fat around the chest, waist or hips for various body shapes.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Transgender Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is becoming more accessible to individuals. Advancements in tools allow surgeons to perform more precise procedures. The benefits are a shorter recovery time, less scarring and fewer risks. Patients often heal faster and can return to normal activities quicker. Scarring is reduced with a smaller incision. Complications are minimized in surgery. There is also a lower risk of infection or blood loss. Technology has also made transgender surgery more affordable. A shorter hospital stay and surgery time lowers overall cost. Individuals may prefer minimally invasive surgery to reduce scars and decrease recovery time.
Choosing the Right Gender-Affirmation Surgery and Surgeon
It is important to choose a surgeon and surgery that aligns with an individual’s goals. Selecting the right gender-affirming surgery is an important decision. Consider medical and emotional factors. Minimally invasive surgery might be best for some. Determine goals for your surgery. Review which procedures will align physical appearance with gender identity. Discuss medical history and conditions with the surgeon. Minimally invasive surgeries typically result in less recovery and scarring. Review what surgery will be affordable.
Choose a surgeon who specializes in transgender healthcare. Look for a compassionate gender-affirming surgeon who fosters a strong patient-doctor relationship. There are many important questions to ask before surgery, such as:
- How many gender-affirming procedures have you performed?
- Have you performed minimally invasive surgeries?
- Are you board-certified?
- Do you follow the WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) standards of care?
- Do you have a dedicated medical team?
- How do you approach minimally invasive surgery?
- What are the surgery risks?
- How long will recovery be for this surgery?
- What kind of follow-up care will be provided?
- Will personalized care be offered?
It can be overwhelming to find the right surgeon. There are many questions and concerns to ask. Gender-affirming surgery is a big decision. Seek advice from medical experts who support gender affirmation. Understand your gender identity and how it aligns with your body. Remember, you are not alone. Seek support from friends, family and people in the transgender community. Explore all of the options available.
Art Surgical’s Gender-Affirming Surgeries
Affirming gender identity through surgery is a life-altering decision. A minimally invasive procedure may be right for you. These procedures offer less scarring, faster recovery times and can be less expensive. Be sure to review your goals for surgery. Consider all of the options available. Be sure to find the best surgeon who will offer the right care for your needs.
Our team at ART Surgical is here to guide and support you through this journey. We surround our patients with compassion and expertise. Individuals can trust that we will provide individualized care. Dr. Angela Rodriguez is involved throughout the entire process. ART Surgical will help you determine the best surgical approach. We can’t wait to help you create the body in which you’ve always felt you belonged. We focus on your health and well-being from consultation to recovery.
Contact us today for a one-on-one consultation.