How should I prepare for feminizing genital surgery?

In preparing for feminizing genital surgery, you may be asked to:

• Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
• Provide two letters of recommendation from two mental health professionals
• Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
• Stop smoking
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding
• Talk to your surgeon about whether you will need to have permanent hair removal treatments on the skin of the scrotum – many surgeons will recommend beginning hair removal three to six months in advance of your surgery for the best outcome.

Feminizing genital surgery is typically performed in a hospital setting, takes four to six hours and will likely use general anesthesia. Some follow-up procedures may be performed on an outpatient basis, and local anesthesia with sedation may be used. These decisions will be based on the requirements of your specific procedure and in consideration of your preferences and your doctor's best judgment.