Transgender men have many different options when it comes to masculinizing the body. Surgeries exist which can create a more male appearing chest, while other surgeries focus on creating a penis. There are also surgeries to remove the reproductive organs. Some transmen may also choose to have additional body or facial masculinization done through several different procedures.
Top Surgery
The most commonly requested surgery by transgender men is top surgery. This refers to a surgery that creates a male chest. There are various techniques available, some of which will be more appropriate for specific men than others. Double incision surgery, keyhole surgery, and peri areolar surgery each come with their own benefits. Typically, men with larger chests opt for double incision surgery, while men with smaller chests may consider keyhole or peri areolar surgery, instead.
Reproductive Organ Surgeries
Both hysterectomies and oophorectomies are also common surgeries for the transgender male. These surgeries are often sought out due to gender dysphoria or painful gynecological issues. Keeping an ovary, or both of them, is possible and may be chosen to help the body regulate hormones. In most cases, a hysterectomy is required before having genital surgery.
Gender Reassignment Surgery
There are a few options when it comes to genital surgery for the transgender man. Metoidioplasty and phalloplasty are the most common procedures. The former involves a release of the clitoris to bring it into a position similar to that of a penis. The latter involves creating a penis using grafted tissue from other areas of the body, commonly the forearm or thigh. In addition to these surgeries, there are also options to close the vaginal opening, create a scrotum with testicular implants, and create a urethral canal in the new penis.
Masculinization Surgery
Other surgeries exist which help masculinize features which may not have benefited from hormone therapy as much as an individual desires. These procedures can create a more male silhouette, change the structure of the face, and more. In most cases, several of the procedures can be done at once so there isn’t a need to go in for surgery after surgery.
If you are curious to learn more about transgender male’s surgery options, the International Center of Transgender Care has resources that may be helpful. You can visit us at www.TheTransCenter.com to learn more or get in touch with an expert.
