Gender-Affirming Surgery (GAS)
Preoperative Questions ✓
Q1. Is a psychological evaluation required before surgery?
Yes. In accordance with guidelines from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), a psychological assessment is essential to confirm emotional readiness, realistic expectations, and the capacity to adapt after surgery. Most surgical programs require at least one letter of recommendation from a qualified mental health provider.
Q2. Should I stop hormone therapy before surgery?
Some surgeons recommend discontinuing estrogen 2 to 4 weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events. However, this decision is individualized. Always follow the instructions of your surgical and endocrine care teams.
Q3. What medical tests are needed before surgery?
Standard preoperative assessments include blood panels, coagulation studies, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and a chest X-ray. Additional tests may be required based on your medical history. These evaluations ensure that you are medically fit for anesthesia and surgery.
Q4. How soon can I return to normal activities after surgery?
Hospital stays typically range from 5 to 7 days. Most patients resume light activities within 4 to 6 weeks. Full recovery—including physical exercise and sexual activity—may take 8 to 12 weeks or longer, depending on the procedure and individual healing.
Postoperative Questions ✓
Q5. Why is vaginal dilation necessary after vaginoplasty?
Dilation maintains neovaginal depth and width, and prevents scar contraction and tissue adhesion. Inconsistent or improper dilation can result in narrowing, discomfort, and structural compromise, affecting long-term function and quality of life.
Q6. Is vaginal dilation painful?
Traditional rigid dilators can cause discomfort, particularly in early stages of healing. Self-expanding devices like REBLOOM offer gentle, gradual pressure, minimizing pain and trauma while enhancing comfort and adherence to the dilation regimen.
Q7. When is it safe to resume sexual activity?
Sexual activity may resume once healing is complete and there are no signs of infection, bleeding, or pain—generally after 8 to 12 weeks. Your surgeon should confirm readiness based on physical examination. Initial intercourse should be gentle and well-lubricated.