What should I expect during my recovery after feminizing genital surgery?

Following your feminizing genital surgery, gauze or bandages may be applied to your incisions. A conformer will be placed inside the neovagina to help the tissues heal into proper position.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery
• Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
• When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

If you choose the penile inversion vaginoplasty procedure, an important part of your healing will include regular dilation. This means inserting a medical grade dilator into the newly constructed neovagina several times a day after surgery to keep it open. Some patients report that this process is difficult, but it is very important to follow your individual instructions from your healthcare team to maintain the depth and width of the neovagina.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:

• Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
• What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
• Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
• Will there be drains? For how long?
• When can I bathe or shower?
• When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
• When do I return for follow-up care?

Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling decreases. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.