Understanding FTM Surgery Referral Criteria and Process
Female-to-male (FTM) gender reassignment surgery, also known as gender-affirming surgery, is a crucial step for many transgender men in their transition journey. In the UK, private practices such as the Nuffield in Plymouth and the Duchy in Truro, where Antony Fitton practices, offer comprehensive and tailored services for individuals seeking these surgeries. This article outlines the referral criteria and process for FTM gender reassignment surgery in private practices, and answers frequently asked questions to provide a clear understanding of what to expect.
Explaining the referral criteria and process for FTM gender reassignment surgery in private practices, and giving you a clear understanding of what to expect.
Referral Criteria for FTM Gender Reassignment Surgery
Private practices in the UK follow stringent criteria to ensure that individuals are well-prepared for FTM gender reassignment surgery. The general referral criteria include:
Diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria:
A formal diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a qualified mental health professional is required. This diagnosis confirms your persistent and consistent identification with a gender different from their assigned sex at birth.
Mental Health Evaluation:
An evaluation by a mental health professional to assess your readiness for surgery, including psychological stability and realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
Hormone Therapy:
Typically, you are expected to undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for at least 12 months before surgery. This period allows the body to adjust to testosterone, and the physical changes help align the body with your gender identity.
Real-Life Experience:
Mr Fitton requires patients to live in their affirmed gender role for a certain period, often 12 months, to ensure that they have fully adjusted to their gender identity in everyday life.
Age:
Mr Fitton and his private practices require you to be at least 18 years old to undergo FTM gender reassignment surgery.
Informed Consent:
You must demonstrate a clear understanding of the surgical procedures, potential risks, and post-operative care. This is usually done through consultations with Mr Fitton.
You are expected to undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for at least 12 months before surgery.
8 Steps in the Process for FTM Gender Reassignment Surgery
The process of obtaining FTM gender reassignment surgery in a private practice typically involves several steps:
1. Initial Consultation:
The journey begins with an initial consultation with a gender specialist or surgeon. During this consultation, your medical history, transition goals, and eligibility for surgery are discussed.
2. Mental Health Assessment:
A thorough mental health assessment is conducted by a psychologist or psychiatrist experienced in gender dysphoria. This assessment ensures you are mentally prepared for the surgery and its aftermath.
3. Medical Assessment:
A comprehensive medical examination is conducted to assess your overall health and suitability for surgery. This may include blood tests, imaging, and other relevant tests.
4. Hormone Therapy:
If not already underway, you will begin or continue hormone therapy under the guidance of an endocrinologist. Regular monitoring and adjustments are made to optimise your health and hormonal balance.
5. Real-Life Experience:
You may need to provide evidence of living in your affirmed gender role, such as name changes, workplace or social adjustments, and personal testimonials.
6. Surgical Consultation:
Detailed discussions with Mr Fitton about the specific procedures, such as chest reconstruction (top surgery), hysterectomy, metoidioplasty, or phalloplasty. Mr Fitton will explain the techniques, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
7. Informed Consent and Scheduling:
After understanding all aspects of the surgery and providing informed consent, the surgery is scheduled. Pre-operative instructions and preparations are provided to ensure you are ready for the procedure.
8. Surgery and Post-Operative Care:
Your surgery is performed, followed by a period of recovery and post-operative care. You will have follow-up appointments with Mr Fitton to monitor healing and address any complications.
The process of obtaining FTM gender reassignment surgery in a private practice typically involves 8 steps.
FTM Surgery FAQs
The FTM process from initial consultation to surgery can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on your circumstances, the specific requirements of Mr Fitton and your chosen clinic.
Costs vary widely based on the type of surgery and the private practice. As an example, Mr Fitton’s FTM top surgery starts at £8284, however, it is important to discuss fees and payment plans during your initial consultations.
If you have other medical conditions, you can still undergo surgery, but you may require additional evaluations and management to ensure safety during and after the procedure.
FTM gender reassignment surgery from Antony Fitton (based at the Nuffield in Plymouth and the Duchy in Truro), involves a detailed and personalised approach to ensure that you are fully prepared for your surgical journey. By adhering to strict referral criteria and a structured process, Mr Fitton in conjunction with the Nuffield and the Duchy, will strive to provide safe and effective care, helping transgender men achieve their desired gender identity.
Summary
Managing your expectations about plastic surgery is important regardless of which procedure you wish to have done. It’s critical to have realistic expectations about plastic surgery and to also ensure you are on the same page as your surgeon.
To find out more about having a treatment, book your no-obligation consultation. You will meet with Antony Fitton and receive expert advice tailored to your needs.
Please call us on 07494 250277 or book your consultation using our online form.
For a no-obligation quote
For a no-obligation quote, tailored specifically to you, please book in for your consultation with Mr Fitton. Your requirements will be discussed in full confidence in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Following your consultation, the price you are quoted includes everything and there are no extra or hidden costs. Advice, treatment and aftercare are all part of our package to ensure your experience is positive from beginning to end.
About your Plastic Surgeon: Mr Antony Fitton
MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng)., FRCS(plast).
Mr Antony Fitton qualified at the Royal London Hospital in 1989 with distinction in Surgery. He holds an MB, BS(Hons)., MD., FRCS(eng). and FRCS(plast). (Fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons).
He is a member of BAPRAS (British Association for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons), BAAPS (British Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), and BSSH (British Society for Surgery of the Hand).
Mr Fitton has received the Paton & Masser Award and the CM Matthews Award from the Royal College of Surgeons of England for his research in nerve injury.
Mr Fitton is licensed as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon by the GMC.
- 0% Finance Available
- Consultations and treatments are available at either the Nuffield Health Hospital, Plymouth or the Duchy Hospital, Truro
- Care Quality Commission Regulated
- GMC Specialist Registered Surgeon
- BAPRAS, BAAPS and BSSH member
- Registered MD
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