Choosing the Right Surgeon for Gender Affirmation Surgery
Gender affirmation surgery (GAS) is a significant goal for many trans people. If this is true for you, these transformative medical procedures can help match your body to your gender identity. Whether it’s top surgery, bottom surgery, facial feminization, or masculinization procedures, choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon or team is vital. This blog will explain what to look for in a gender affirmation surgeon and certain criteria your provider should meet before choosing a doctor.
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Check Surgeon Board Certification and Qualifications
The first step in choosing the right surgeon or team for gender affirmation surgery is to check their qualifications. Make sure the surgeon is board certified, preferably with specialized training or extensive experience in gender-affirming procedures. Some practices employ a team of doctors specializing in reconstructive, genital, pelvic, or general surgery. Here are some things to look for:
- Specialization in gender-affirming surgery: Gender reassignment can include MTF or FTM top surgery (chest reconstruction), bottom surgery (vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, metoidioplasty), and facial procedures. Check their portfolio to see if they have experience in the procedure(s) you’re considering.
- Experience with gender affirmation surgery: Not all surgeons are knowledgeable in transgender healthcare. Look for a surgeon who not only performs gender-affirming procedures but has lots of experience and a good track record in this area.
- Hospital privileges or accredited surgery center: Your surgeon must have hospital privileges or work with an accredited surgical facility so your surgery will be performed in a licensed and regulated environment.
Get Referrals
Word-of-mouth referrals are gold when choosing a gender-affirmation surgeon. Contact LGBTQ+ support groups, forums, or other transgender people who can provide first-hand accounts of their experiences with different surgeons and recommendations.
3 Questions to Ask at Your Gender-Affirmation Consultation
Your consultation should be as productive as possible, which means getting to know the surgeon and addressing your concerns. It’s best to make a list of your questions and bring it to your appointment, but be sure to include the following three:
- How many gender affirmation procedures have they done?
Ideally, you want someone who has done many cases. Some procedures are more complex than others. - Do they specialize in certain gender-affirming surgeries?
Some surgeons might specialize in specific gender affirmation procedures, such as top surgery (masculinization or feminization), bottom surgery, or facial procedures. - Will they provide before-and-after photos of previous patients?
You should be able to see their previous gender-confirmation surgeries to make sure their results match your expectations.
Consider the Surgeon’s Approach and Bedside Manner
Gender affirmation surgery is physically and emotionally intense, so choose a surgeon who understands your needs, listens to your concerns, and offers support throughout the process. Consider the surgeon’s communication style and how you feel during your consultation. Look for a combination of technical skills, empathy, and a patient-centered approach. Gender-affirming surgery is a transformative decision for many people, so a qualified, experienced team who will be with you every step of the way is invaluable.
Check Testimonials and Reviews From Previous Patients
Online reviews and testimonials from previous patients can provide insight into the surgeon’s skills, professionalism, and patient care. You can find reviews on medical websites, social media, and LGBTQ+ forums. Look for reviews that mention:
- Surgical outcomes: Did the patient get the desired aesthetic or functional results?
- Postsurgical support: Was the surgeon available to answer follow-up questions and address concerns?
- Overall experience: Was the patient happy with the care they received from the surgeon and their staff?
Reviews can help you find the best surgeons and spot any potential red flags.
Consider a Multi-Disciplinary Gender Transition Team
Gender affirmation surgery is more than one single procedure. A patient’s experience involves pre-operative and post-operative care, psychological support, and sometimes hormone therapy adjustments. When choosing a surgeon, consider a practice like Restore Medical Center that offers more focused yet comprehensive services. Dr. John L. Whitehead and Dr. Alain Ramirez are both board-certified experts who provide compassionate care to each and every patient.
In addition, Doctors Whitehead and Ramirez work with a multidisciplinary team that includes specialists in transgender health, mental health professionals, and postsurgical physical therapists, etc.
Learn More About Gender Transformations in Miami, FL
Dr. John L. Whitehead, a leading board-certified surgeon, and Dr. Alain Ramirez, a highly trained board-certified anesthesiologist, specialize in gender affirmation surgeries in Miami, FL, and employ an empathetic, multi-disciplinary team of LGBTQ+ allies and community members. Their AAAASF-accredited surgical center serves only trans men and women undergoing gender transitions in the Miami area.
Doctors Whitehead and Ramirez take time to create personalized surgical plans based on their patients’ goals and preferences. They accept several insurance plans and are contracted with Cigna and Aetna insurance networks. If you want to learn more or schedule a consultation with our surgeon, call 305.865.2000 today!