Gender reassignment
Gender reassignment (also known medically as gender reassignment surgery or transition) refers to medical and surgical procedures aimed at adapting a person’s physical characteristics to their perceived gender identity. It is performed on people who do not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth (transgender or non-binary people).
Forms of gender reassignment can include
Hormone therapy
- Testosterone therapy in transmasculine individuals (female to male) for the development of male physical characteristics (e.g. beard growth, deeper voice).
- Oestrogen therapy in transfeminine individuals (male to female) for the development of female body characteristics (e.g. breast development, softer skin).
Surgical interventions
- Breast surgery (breast augmentation or breast removal)
- Genital surgery (e.g. neovagina formation, phalloplasty or metoidioplasty)
- Facial feminization or masculinization (surgical adjustment of facial features)
Further measures
- Voice training, hair removal, legal adaptation of name and gender entry
Procedure
Before medical or surgical measures are taken, careful diagnosis and support is usually provided by medical specialists, psychotherapists and transgender health specialists. The WPATH Standards of Care (guidelines of the World Professional Organization for Transgender Health) often serve as the basis for treatment recommendations.
Important notes
Gender reassignment can significantly improve the psychological well-being, social participation and quality of life of those affected.
This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations. It is in no way a substitute for a professional examination or treatment by a licensed physician. If you have any health complaints or uncertainties, please always consult a medical professional – especially if you have any questions about intimate surgery or sexual health.
