Trans Man Surgery

ART Surgical and Dr. Angela Rodriguez provide trans man surgery in San Francisco, California, and across the United States. She works closely with each patient to understand their goals for physical transformation. She provides personalized care and support throughout the process.

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Trans Man Surgery
ART Surgical and Dr. Angela Rodriguez provide trans man surgery in San Francisco, California, and across the United States. She works closely with each patient to understand their goals for physical transformation. She provides personalized care and support throughout the process.
Joyful person with glasses, wearing a polo shirt and holding a yellow mug, exemplifying the positive outcome and satisfaction individuals may feel after trans man surgery, as part of the section explaining procedures on the ART Surgical website.

What is Trans Man Surgery?

Trans man surgery options include various procedures that help align an individual's physical characteristics with their gender identity. These surgeries typically include chest masculinization, or top surgery, which removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest to create a more masculine appearance. Another procedure is genital reconstruction, such as metoidioplasty or phalloplasty, which involves creating a penis.

Trans man surgery options are for individuals assigned female at birth who identify as male and experience gender dysphoria related to their physical characteristics. These procedures are often pursued as part of a complete approach to transitioning. They can greatly benefit individuals by providing psychological and emotional relief as they outwardly express their true gender identity.

Surgery Options for Transgender Men

Surgery options for a transgender man typically include chest, facial, and body masculinization. Deciding which procedures are best for you means thinking about what you hope to achieve, personal preferences, and medical considerations. It's important to talk with qualified healthcare providers who know about transgender healthcare. They can help explain which procedures might be best for your care. Additionally, addressing gender dysphoria may involve a combination of medical check-ups, therapy, and support from loved ones and the transgender community. It's essential for individuals to prioritize self-care and seek out resources and support to navigate their journey toward gender affirmation.

Close-up of a healthcare professional in a white coat holding a patient's hands, offering comfort and assurance before surgery, representing the caring support provided during transgender masculinization procedures, as described on the ART Surgical website.

Top Surgery:

Top surgery, or chest masculinization, involves the removal of breast tissue and reshaping the chest to create a flatter, more masculine shape. The specific technique used depends on multiple factors. These could be the amount of breast tissue and desired outcome. This surgery can greatly eliminate feelings of dysphoria.

Facial Masculinization:

Facial Masculinization is a set of surgical procedures that create a more masculine appearance. These procedures may include jaw contouring, cheek augmentation, chin augmentation and Adam's apple enhancement. Jaw contouring involves reshaping the jawline to be broader and more angular, while cheek and chin augmentation add definition to these areas. Adam's apple enhancement is the insertion of an implant to create a more prominent thyroid cartilage. Facial masculinization is often an essential part of the gender-affirming process for a transgender man.

Body Masculinization:

Body masculinization includes procedures that help align an individual's physical appearance with their male gender identity. These procedures may include liposuction to remove excess fat in feminine areas like the hips and thighs. Pectoral implants are another option to enhance chest muscle definition and abdominal etching creates a more muscular abdomen. Additionally, procedures like gluteal augmentation can add volume for a more masculine shape.

Contemplative individual sitting with chin resting on hands, dressed in casual attire, portraying a moment of reflection that could symbolize the thoughtful consideration involved in the journey before and after trans male surgery, as highlighted on the ART Surgical website.

Before and After Surgery for Transgender Males

Before any type of trans male surgery, you can expect to have a detailed consult with your doctor. At this time, you will discuss goals, medical history and surgical options. This process may also involve therapy to help with your mental health. Additionally, individuals may need to undergo hormone therapy or stop certain medications before surgery to minimize risks.

After surgery, there will be a period of recovery. It's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully. This often includes wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities and attending follow-up appointments. Swelling, bruising and discomfort are common in the days and weeks following surgery. These symptoms typically improve over time.

It's essential for you to have realistic expectations about the results and be patient with the healing process. Ongoing support from doctors, loved ones, and the transgender community is invaluable during this time of transition.

Patient Stories

Dr. Rodriguez and the ART Surgical team believe in the power of gender-affirming, compassionate care. They recognize that each patient is unique and requires individualized care through their transition. Listen as our patients share the meaningful impact of our services in their own words.

See All Patient Stories
A vibrant and diverse group of individuals laughing together, embodying the sense of community and joy that ART Surgical aims to support through their patient-focused gender-affirming services and personal transformation stories.

To learn more about trans man surgery and how Dr. Angela Rodriguez and her team will guide you through the process, book a one-on-one consultation.

Trans Man Surgery FAQ

What surgery do trans men have?

Trans men can undergo various surgeries to help align their physical appearance with their gender identity. Common surgeries include top surgery, genital reconstruction surgery, facial masculinization surgery and body masculinization surgery. Often, a combination of these procedures is chosen as part of a comprehensive gender-affirming care plan.

Can trans men get surgery?

Trans men can get surgery. These gender-affirming surgeries are performed by doctors who specialize in transgender healthcare. These surgeries are often important for many trans men as part of their transition, helping to match their physical appearance with their gender identity and relieve symptoms of gender dysphoria.

How does trans man surgery work?

Transitioning into your true self as a trans man involves various steps to match your appearance with your gender identity. This can include hormone therapy, mental health therapy and different surgeries that create a more masculine look. These changes may involve altering the chest, face and body to better reflect your inner self. Each person's journey is unique, with choices made to enhance comfort and confidence in their own body. A consultation with a healthcare provider will help determine the right plan for you.

Does insurance cover trans man surgery?

Insurance coverage for trans man surgery depends on your insurance provider and your specific plan. Some plans include gender-affirming care, while others do not. Patients should check with their insurance company to see what is covered and what documents are needed for approval.

How long does it take to recover from trans men surgery?

Recovery times for surgeries generally vary depending on the type and complexity of the procedure. Most trans men surgeries require an initial recovery period of two to eight weeks. During this time, patients can resume non-strenuous activities but should avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity. For more complex surgeries like genital reconstruction, complete healing can take several months to a year.

While patients often return to regular activities within a few weeks, full recovery may take longer, depending on the specific type of surgery. It’s important to follow post-operative care instructions and meet with your doctor to ensure a successful recovery.

What are the requirements for transgender male surgery?

Requirements for trans men surgery can vary but usually include a history of persistent gender dysphoria, a mental health assessment with letters of recommendation and being of legal age or meeting specific surgery requirements. Some doctors require patients to undergo hormone therapy for a certain period before surgery. Additionally, patients need to be in good overall health to safely undergo surgery and must provide informed consent. Patients must also understand the risks, benefits and expectations of the procedure.