What specific details should I look for in the surgeon that performs GRS? There are many that do this in the USA, and other places in the world that follow WPATH5. My concern is how do you find their Plastic Surgeon Licenses, pictures of their work, etc. Not all plastic surgeons post pictures of their work, some of their licenses are difficult to find. This is life changing surgery.
Dear 2Tall2Handle,
Hello and thank you for your excellent question. Your observations are correct. You want to find a surgeon that specializes in gender affirmation surgery. WPATH is a source, but there are also other resources. You can also use this website (ASPS Practice Match). It is best to answer your question during a face-to-face evaluation, when you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and you can have a physical examination to evaluate for that procedure. I recommend that you find a board-certified, or board-eligible plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of similar patients whom have had this procedure. If you have any questions, call our office for assistance. Good luck!
This is a great question. You should find a surgeon certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery. And, they should have photos to share.
Gary Alter MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon and ASPS member in Los Angeles with expertise in GRS. He is well known for his work in this area, and he has been doing this for many years. Visit Dr. Alter's website. He may the right plastic surgeon for you. It also looks like he has information about what to look for in a plastic surgeon for patients considering GRS.
Best of luck to you.
GRS in M2F patient can be broken down into 3 major areas: 1) “Top Surgery” (breast augmentation) 2) Vaginoplasty 3) “In Between” Surgery (Brazilian Butt Lift for tiny waist and well projected hips and buttocks. Experience counts in all 3 areas. Honesty also counts. Ask surgeon to show you pictures of a major complication and what she/he did to correct it. Take Back rates are as high as 50% in some major centers doing transgender surgery. I know as I am the only openly transgender member in this Society. I know of just about everybody doing this surgery. Contact me, you will be safe with my suggestions.