FTM Bottom Surgery Recovery: What You Need to Know
This blog discusses three types of transmasculine bottom surgery: hysterectomy, oophorectomy, and vaginectomy, along with their respective recovery processes, so patients can learn more about these procedures to prepare for surgery.
Transmasculine Bottom Surgery Recovery
Transmasculine bottom surgery is an important step for many transgender patients, and to ensure a smooth experience, it’s useful to prepare for surgery by learning about the FTM bottom surgery recovery process. While recovering from a major procedure like this can seem daunting, the more you know about what you can expect, the better you can prepare—allowing you to focus on nothing but healing when the time comes.
Extirpative procedures are performed to remove female reproductive organs, and for some individuals, this is the primary goal for their gender-affirming care. Examples include:
- Hysterectomy – Removal of the uterus
- Oophorectomy – Removal of the ovaries
- Vaginectomy – Removal of all or part of the vaginal canal and possibly the labia
Restorative procedures are performed separately, usually after some form of extirpative procedure.
These include:
- Phalloplasty – Creates a phallus (multiple techniques)
- Metaidoioplasty – Creates a phallus (penis) out of the enlarged clitoris
Gender-Affirming Care for You
Restore Medical Center is Miami’s only practice solely dedicated to gender-affirming care. Dr. John L. Whitehead and Dr. Alain Ramirez are both board-certified physicians and experts in gender-affirming care, as well as compassionate and knowledgeable members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who are ready to help you on your journey toward embodying your gender identity.
If you’d like to learn which procedure is right for you, or would like to learn more about each procedure in detail, including the recovery process, call Restore Medical Center at (305) 865-2000 to schedule a consultation.
What Is Transmasculine Bottom Surgery Recovery Like?
Each procedure has a different recovery process, with varying restrictions and downtimes. Some procedures, like hysterectomies and oophorectomies, are often combined.
Combining procedures may result in longer recovery times, but it has the benefit of requiring only one surgical procedure, with one use of anesthesia and one recovery process. Your surgeon can discuss your options with you during your consultation.
Hysterectomy & Oophorectomy Recovery
Hysterectomy and oophorectomy recovery typically takes four to eight weeks, depending on the surgical technique used. It’s important to rest as much as possible, reduce physical activity, and restrict your movement—no lifting or bending.
To help make the recovery process smoother and potentially shorter, take heed of the following instructions:
- Avoid heavy lifting for six weeks.
- Avoid intercourse for six to eight weeks.
- Keep incisions clean and dry.
As you regain energy, you can gradually increase your physical activity (light walking). This aids in healing by helping to circulate the blood and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Vaginectomy Recovery
Vaginectomy recovery takes between four and six weeks or more, depending on the surgical technique and whether you have combined procedures. You can expect some swelling and pain, especially in the first week of recovery. Your surgeon will recommend over-the-counter or prescription pain medications to help with discomfort. An overnight hospital stay may be required after surgery to ensure early healing.
As with other procedures, incorporating light walking is very important to prevent blood clots, but you’ll need to balance it with plenty of rest. Most patients can return to work after two weeks, depending on their job requirements and their surgeon’s clearance.
Certain leg movements, such as while getting out of bed or in the car, need to be modified to avoid stretching the wound. It is also not uncommon for the nerves in this area to take time to heal, which can alter erogenous sensation. Swelling can take several months to fully subside.
Want to Learn More About FTM Bottom Surgery in Miami, FL?
Drs. Whitehead and Ramirez are ready to help you discover the transmasculine procedure that works best for you. Call Restore Medical Center today at (305) 865-2000 or complete the contact form to request a private consultation and get started aligning your body with your true self.