Transgender surgery refers to a set of procedures that enable transgender individuals to feminize or masculinize their appearance, in order to reduce gender dysphoria. These surgeries are usually part of a long-term care pathway supported by multiple healthcare professionals.
Transgender surgery is a broad term that covers several procedures:
These may complement genital reconstruction surgeries (vaginoplasty or phalloplasty), although this is not always the case. In general, patients undergo multiple procedures to achieve the most coherent and congruent result with their gender identity.
As the name suggests, transgender surgery is for transgender individuals, people whose gender identity (psychological and social sense of self) does not match their biological sex.
These individuals often experience significant psychological distress and may wish to change their appearance and/or sex so that their body aligns with their inner identity. All transgender people can benefit from surgery if they feel the need. Surgery often allows for psychological improvement in addition to physical modifications.
There are two main categories of transgender surgeries :
While some procedures are performed in both cases, they always have gender-specific techniques. Some surgeries, like Adam’s apple reduction or frontoplasty, are uniquely feminizing procedures.
Male-to-female surgery allows feminization of one or more of the following areas: the face, the chest, the waist and the buttocks. Facial feminization itself includes a wide range of procedures targeting the forehead, cheeks, jawline, nose (rhinoplasty), and chin.
Adam’s apple reduction is another commonly requested procedure, which often provides high satisfaction among patients.
Female-to-male surgery consists of masculinizing the face and body of transgender men. Procedures include :
Torsoplasty and definition liposuction help masculinize the body by removing breast glands and reshaping contours.
Transgender surgeries provide excellent results, both striking and harmonious. They help patients feel more comfortable in their bodies by reducing gender dysphoria. The surgeon always aims for the most natural-looking outcome possible, avoiding any visible signs of surgical intervention.
Depending on the procedure performed, it may take several weeks or months to fully appreciate the final result. This timeframe corresponds to healing and reduction of post-operative swelling.
The cost of transgender surgery depends on the type and number of procedures performed. A personalized quote will be provided during your first consultation with Dr. Brault.
Surgical procedures are generally offered starting at the age of 18, although certain steps can begin earlier under strict medical supervision.
The main objective is to improve psychological well-being by reducing gender dysphoria and aligning physical appearance with gender identity.
Some procedures may be partially or fully reimbursed if deemed medically necessary. Coverage varies depending on individual cases and health insurance plans.
The waiting period depends on the type of surgery and the patient’s health. A several-month interval is often recommended to ensure proper recovery.
No, surgery is not mandatory. Each transgender person chooses their own path. Some individuals do not feel the need for surgery to feel aligned with their gender identity.