How Does Bottom Surgery Work?

The road to gender transition can be a long one, with many stops along the way. Bottom surgery is one of the most significant steps in many patients’ journeys. 

Bottom surgery changes how your genitals look and function, giving you genitals that better match the gender you identify with. 

If you are interested in bottom surgery, it is helpful to understand more about the procedure and how it can contribute to your transition journey. 

What Does “Bottom Surgery” Mean?

Bottom surgery is a type of gender affirmation procedure. It refers to the surgical procedure performed to give your genitals the look and functionality that pertains to your gender identity. 

Bottom surgery is available for patients undergoing a male-to-female transformation as well as female-to-male transformation. There are multiple kinds of surgeries and surgical approaches, so discussing your wants and needs with your surgeon is crucial to help achieve your desired results.

Having genitalia that matches your gender identity can significantly help with gender dysphoria. Gender dysphoria can cause negative feelings and distress when a person’s gender identity does not match the sex assigned at birth or the physical characteristics related to their sex. 

Bottom surgery can provide a sense of comfort in many aspects. Patients feel more confident dating, being in healthcare settings, and even styling their clothes. 

Male-to-Female Bottom Surgery

Male-to-female bottom surgery involves using tissue from the penis, scrotum, and testes to create a functional and aesthetic vulva and vagina.

There are several types of bottom surgeries for male-to-female patients, including vaginoplasty. Several versions of a vaginoplasty exist, but the most common is penile inversion vaginoplasty.

Penile inversion vaginoplasty involves rearranging the existing genital tissue and creating a vaginal canal (the opening of the vagina) and vulva (the external parts of the vagina), including the labia. 

This type of surgery gives not only the appearance of female genitalia, but also the depth and functionality of a vagina. 

While some bottom surgeries require multiple surgeries, a penile inversion vaginoplasty is typically a one-stage procedure.

How Does Vaginoplasty Bottom Surgery Work?

Surgeons typically perform bottom surgeries under general anesthesia, which helps ensure you are comfortable and feel nothing throughout the procedure.

Penile inversion vaginoplasty involves various steps to achieve maximum results. 

First, your surgeon creates the opening for the vagina by inverting the shaft of the penis. If additional skin is needed to create the right depth, the surgeon will perform skin grafts from other areas, including the scrotum. 

Next, the surgeon will construct the labia minora and majora with penile and scrotal skin. For functionality, the urethra is shortened and relocated to a female position. Because the tip of the penis is the most sensitive, your surgeon will use this to create a clitoris. 

After your surgery is complete, your surgeon properly bandages the area. You will have a catheter in place for urination and packing within the new vaginal canal for about a week while you begin the healing process. 

Aftercare for Bottom Surgery

Following proper aftercare guidelines is key after vaginoplasty surgery. Not only can it help you minimize discomfort, but it can also promote quicker healing and better results.

Recovery from bottom surgery requires plenty of rest to allow your body to heal. Generally, your surgeon may ask that you avoid:

• Strenuous activity for at least six weeks
• Submerging in water, including swimming, for at least eight weeks
• Sexual activity for at least three months

One of the most critical parts of vaginoplasty recovery is dilation. Once your surgeon creates your new vaginal canal, you will need to dilate every day for the rest of your life  your surgery to help ensure you maintain the size and depth of the opening. This entails inserting a dilator based on your surgeon’s instructions. 

Recovery after a vaginoplasty is longer than other types of surgery because of the uniqueness and complexity of the procedure. While healing can take some time, the result will be worth your wait. 

Benefits of Getting Male-to-Female Bottom Surgery

Everyone’s transition journey is different. However, if you identify as a female but were born with male genitalia, undergoing male-to-female bottom surgery may be an integral part of your transition. 

The benefits of vaginoplasty are plentiful and include:

• A key physical feature that better aligns with your gender identity 
• A fully functioning vagina
• More self-confidence and a better self-image 

Additionally, undergoing bottom surgery commonly helps with improving mental health. Mental health plays a significant role in gender and gender confirmation surgery. 

If you are interested in learning how male-to-female bottom surgery can benefit you and your life, do not hesitate to discuss it with your surgeon. 

Determining Whether Bottom Surgery Is Right for You

Generally, male-to-female bottom surgery may be right for you if you are transitioning from male to female and potentially suffer from gender dysphoria. To undergo surgery, you should be physically and mentally healthy.

During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to address your questions and concerns. After reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination, your surgeon can determine whether you are eligible for the procedure. If so, your doctor will tailor your surgical plan to your needs.

Every Journey is Unique

Vaginoplasty bottom surgery is only one step in the transition journey, but it can have a lasting positive impact on how you look and feel. Vegas Plastic Surgery Institute welcomes you, no matter where you are on your path to transition. Our highly trained surgeons can personalize your care to align with your individual goals.

Learn more about how vaginoplasty can change your life for the better today.