(CHICAGO, Illinois) – For the first time, the world’s largest plastic surgery organization is tracking national statistics on gender confirmation surgeries. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons found a nearly 20 percent increase in these surgeries in just the first year of reporting. In 2016, more than 3,200 surgeries were performed to help transgender patients feel more like themselves.
“In the past few years, we’ve certainly seen an exponential increase in the number of individuals who are seeking surgical treatment for gender dysphoria, which is a disconnect between how an individual feels and what their anatomic characteristics are,” said Loren Schechter, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Chicago, Illinois.
Gender confirmation procedures can include everything from facial and body contouring to reassignment surgeries. Dr. Schechter says gender transitions usually include more than just surgery, and that plastic surgeons often partner with other experts to provide the most comprehensive care possible.
“There is no one-size-fits all treatment, and no one discipline can meet all the needs of an individual,” said Dr. Schechter. “For example, plastic surgeons work with doctors who specialize in hormone therapy, urology and with mental health professionals who help patients through the emotional aspects of their transition.”
