What Is FTM Phalloplasty?
FTM Phalloplasty is a female to male gender reassignment surgery that provides transgender men with a adult-sized phallus. Dr. Rumer performs the Abdominal Phalloplasty procedure which uses a pedicled abdominal graft that is tubed to create the phallus.
The lower abdominal arteries, veins and nerves are preserved in the graft, providing good blood supply as well as tactile and temperature sensation. The resulting horizontal scar across the pelvis is easily concealed.
What Should I Know About Phalloplasty Surgery?
As a one-stage procedure, Abdominal Phalloplasty results in an aesthetically pleasing penis with tactile sensation and is associated with a low incidence of complications. Results can be further optimized with Scrotoplasty and Testicular Implants. (Urethral Lengthening is not available for this procedure.) Dr. Rumer will perform a full evaluation at your consultation and together you will decide on a plan to meet your goals and maximize your surgery outcome.
- Phalloplasty surgery results in an adult-sized phallus.
- No significant donor site defect.
- The phallus can have an uncircumcised or circumcised appearance.
- Hysterectomy is required and can be performed either before or along with Phalloplasty.
- Complications can include: Tissue necrosis, migration and/or extrusion of testicular implants; infection.
What Does Abdominal Phalloplasty Involve?
Abdominal Phalloplasty is performed at the hospital and requires an overnight stay.
The phallus is created with abdominal skin and subcutaneous tissue that is separated from the muscle layer, tubed and rotated to hang down from the pubic area.
Scrotoplasty and insertion of Testicular Implants can be done during the initial operation. Dr. Rumer offers different Scrotoplasty techniques to choose from, resulting in either a bifid or joined scrotum.
Many Phalloplasty patients will also benefit from a pubic lift or “mons resection,” a plastic surgery procedure that removes fat from the pubic mound and pulls the phallus into a higher, more natural-looking position.
How Long Is Recovery and When Can I Resume My Normal Activities?
You will experience some discomfort, swelling and bruising after your surgery. This can be minimized with pain medication and rest. You will be seen back in the office a week post-op. Patients should plan on staying in the area for 2-3 weeks after Abdominal Phalloplasty.
Be sure to inquire about Dr. Rumer’s Recovery Program which offers daily medical check-ups by Dr. Rumer and/or her Nurse Practitioner and optional on-site recovery accommodations. Most patients are ready to return to regular activities after approximately 6 weeks.
Also see: Metoidioplasty, FTM Body Contouring, FTM Top Surgery
