Phalloplasty Definition, Pros and Cons, Procedure, Cost

A phalloplasty is a process of constructing or repairing a penis. Those who identify as transgender or nonbinary and are looking for gender confirmation surgery frequently opt for phalloplasty as the surgical procedure of choice. It is also used to fix problems with the penis caused by injury, cancer, or a birth defect.

The purpose of phalloplasty is to create a penis that is aesthetically pleasing, has adequate size, and is capable of sensing sensations and urinating while the patient is standing. It's a complicated process that frequently requires multiple surgeries.

Phalloplasty methods are constantly improving along with urology and plastic surgery. The most common phalloplasty treatment today is referred to as a radial forearm free-flap (RFF) phalloplasty. The forearm skin flap is used by surgeons to construct the penis shaft during this treatment.

Definition:

Phalloplasty is a surgical procedure used to restore the penis after severe damage or to correct a congenital defect. The process creates a functional penis in transgender men. It is a complicated operation that, in most cases, needs to be broken up into several different procedures.

Pros:

Phalloplasty can provide significant relief from a variety of difficulties, including both physical and emotional stress. The end result is a penis that appears natural and may be capable of performing erections. You can obtain your preferred gender identification with the use of phalloplasty when transgender surgery is involved.

Depending on what you choose, there may be other benefits as well:

• Radial forearm-free flaps offer superior aesthetic and sensory benefits.
• More possibilities for penile length are available to you with anterolateral thigh-free flaps.
• Additionally, it is simpler to conceal the scars left on your thigh after removing the flap.
• Standing while urinating is possible thanks to urethra lengthening.

Cons:

Phalloplasty is a specialized penis repair surgery.  Many individuals encounter difficulties. But avoiding this risk is possible by seeing a skilled surgeon. When complications are identified at an earlier stage, the likelihood that they may damage your long-term results is reduced.

A urethral stricture is an additional urinary problem that may occur as a result of phalloplasty. The channel gets too narrow to discharge urine at this point. Phalloplasty can also result in other less common complications, such as the loss of the flap in part or in its entirety, as well as problems with the skin graft.

In particular, to phalloplasty performed on transgender men, there is a risk of flap loss, urethral difficulties, wound collapse, pelvic hemorrhage or inflammation, or the necessity for additional surgery. All of these risks are possible outcomes.

Procedure:

Surgeons remove a sizable flap of skin and tissue (from another part of your body) during phalloplasty. They first roll it into the shape of a shaft and then connect it to the genital area thereafter. For people undergoing FTM transsexual surgery, female genitalia are removed. To urinate while standing, one must elongate the urethra (the tube through which pee passes out of the body).

Cost:

The financial expenditures are relatively significant due to the fact that phalloplasty is such a complex procedure. The procedure costs most individuals tens of thousands of dollars. Phalloplasty procedures are covered, either in full or in part, by certain types of health insurance policies. Before you plan a phalloplasty, it's crucial to discuss the price with your doctor and the coverage provided by your insurance. The cost of the procedures often ranges between $25,000 and $35,000.