A Deep Dive Into Transgender Surgery

The hot and controversial topic of transgenderism has become a bone of contention in different societies, where some are for and some against. To shed light, transgender is a term that is used to describe a gender crisis in which certain individuals feel or are of the opinion that the sex or gender they were assigned to at birth is not befitting for them. Having established that, they choose to express themselves in distinct ways that include dressing, mannerisms and sexual behaviour. Some individuals go as far as reassigning their gender, either from male to female or vice versa. Interestingly, astounding figures of transgender surgery in India have recorded persons experiencing distress due to this identity crisis.

Transgender surgery, also known as gender reassignment surgery, has become quite common across the globe. It includes various procedures like vaginoplasty, breast augmentation, facial feminization and so on. These surgeries are performed after a serious assessment by a multidisciplinary gender identity clinic, mental health professionals and a confirmed diagnosis of gender dysphoria. To undergo transgender surgery in India, the legal age is 18. However, there is an  exception for minor cases with legal authorization 

Eligibility For Transgender Surgery

There is an eligibility criterion that has been stipulated for people to qualify for a gender reassignment surgery:

• Assessment- individuals interested in gender affirmation need  a thorough and deep assessment by the multidisciplinary gender identity clinic and a mental healthcare expert
• Diagnosis–  a confirmed diagnosis of gender dysphoria is very important. Gender dysphoria is a strong feeling of wanting to alter one’s gender due to a misalignment between one’s gender identity and the gender assigned at birth.
• Transition history, documented history of gender transition, is required, with evidence of any gender affirming steps, including hormone therapy, is expected.
• Age- persons seeking surgery have to be of legal age, generally 18 and above.

Types of Transgender Surgery

There are mainly two types of transgender surgery: Male to Female transgender surgery (MTF) and Female to Male transgender surgery (FTM)

• Male to Female Transgender surgery (MFT)

This surgery involves a lot of surgical procedures that include breast augmentation, also known as breast implants. Additionally, a vaginoplasty is performed to create a vagina using various methods such as penile inversion. Facial feminization also takes place, which includes hairline changes, chin reshaping and so on. Body feminization surgery may also be included to alter the body from muscular to feminine. Beyond surgery, there are some follow-up treatments, such as hormone therapy and voice therapy, that promote feminization.

• Female to Male Transgender Surgery (FMT)

Also known as masculinization surgery. This procedure involves the alteration of the female body into a male body. Procedures include mastectomy, a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue to make the chest area flatter. A hysterectomy and oophorectomy are also performed to remove the female reproductive organs, often recommended to avoid pregnancy or menstrual issues. It also involves genital reconstructive surgery,  a procedure whereby a penis is created through various techniques.

In conclusion, what was known to be a taboo in yesteryears has now become a tale of the past as transgenderism has gained ascendency in this modern epoch where freedom of expression and the right to choose have become fundamental human rights. When it comes to transgender surgery, it is advisable to think before you leap under the knife.