Feminising Surgery
What does lower feminising surgery include?
There are multiple surgical options for lower feminising surgery. At CCGS we offer bilateral orchidectomy, vulvoplasty and vaginoplasty, It is important to be aware that feminising genital surgery is not reversible, therefore you need to consider all the options available before you make this important decision.
What is Vaginoplasty Surgery?
Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure where we remove the genitalia you were born with (the penis and the testes) and we create a neovagina, and vulva (clitoris with hood, labia minora and labia majora).
The erectile tissue of the penis is largely removed, as are the testicles and this is completely irreversible. The urethra (water pipe) is shortened, and its opening is placed in a position to resemble female anatomy. Neo-labia minora and majora (inner and outer lips) are made from the penile (minora) and perineal (majora) skin. An innervated (sensitive) clitoris is fashioned out of part of the glans penis (head of the penis). This is placed under a small hood at the front of the neolabia
In order to keep the vaginal cavity patent you will need to commit to lifelong vaginal dilatation.
Image: a view of the anatomy before and after vaginoplasty. Ref: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
What is Vulvoplasty?
This is surgery where we remove the genitalia you were born with (the penis and the testes) and we create a vulva (clitoris with hood, labia minora and labia majora). Whilst there will be the appearance of a vaginal opening externally, there will be no vaginal cavity (i.e. no internal depth”), so receptive vaginal intercourse will not be possible.
Your surgical pathway
We offer patients an individualised consultation with a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) with the aim to collect a detailed holistic history of the patient, and to identify potential matters that require referral to other services (e.g. dietician, endocrinology, physiotherapy, and psychologist). An appointment with one of our surgeons is then arranged. This will provide an opportunity for patients to ask any questions they may have regarding their surgery.
Risks and complications
If you are accepted for surgery, your consent form will explain the potential risks and complications of your surgery. Details of this will also be discussed in your surgical consultations.