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by Transman Scott Newgent
Voices within this debate are few, ensure they remain.
Phalloplasty, colloquially known as transman bottom surgery, represents an integral part of the transgender surgical transition. This unique surgical procedure involves creating an artificial penis, commonly nicknamed 'pseudo-penis,' using skin usually retrieved from the patient's arm. While some online platforms issue sparse advisories regarding phalloplasty, overarching medical literature and online deliberation seldom present a genuinely realistic depiction of this surgical procedure. Narrowing down specifically on complication rates, it becomes evident that empirical data reflects these are shockingly high, reaching an alarming 67% ("Phalloplasty: Risks and Complications," 2021) [1]. This essay delves into exploring the phalloplasty procedure, the corresponding complication rates, and the lack of comprehensive information available on public platforms.
The advent of phalloplasty demonstrates an intricate fusion of medical and surgical advancements. Commonly procured from the forearm, the skin graft constitutes the foundational building block for constructing a functional penis. Loree et al. (2020)[2], in their medical journal, shed light on the intricate nature of the procedure, in which a successful implementation can redefine the patient's quality of life.
However, juxtaposing the life-changing attributes of phalloplasty with its inherent risks paints a contrasting picture. The surgical procedure encompasses the entirety of the patient's body, wherein a divergence from expected parameters may usher in unexpected complications. Higher complication rates have been observed stemming from the multifaceted nature of the surgical procedure — ranging from healing difficulties to infections and functional limitations — evidence gathered from the University of Michigan Health System[3] paints a grim picture.
A study conducted by Nikolavsky et al. (2015) [4], suggests that among the gamut of complications that may occur, urinary stricture and fistula development rank among the most common. Further
corroborating the data by Nikolavsky et al., Masson-Lecomte et al. (2013)[5] in their study 'Long-term complications following phalloplasty in trans men,' provides a distressing figure: over two-thirds of patients might encounter some form of surgical complication.
A striking discrepancy remains prevalent in the garb of online public discourse surrounding phalloplasty – the inadequate transparency and detailed awareness among potential recipients of the procedure. Whilst preserving the optimism related to a successful phalloplasty operation, it is crucial to temper this with the reality of possible complications. This dual approach is vital to avoid pearl-clutching shocks and equip candidates with pragmatic expectations.
In conclusion, the high complication rate presents a considerable concern that must be acknowledged, conferred, and acted upon, both within the medical field and society at large. The veil of incomplete information should be lifted and supplanted with an honest, comprehensive discourse, adequately preparing individuals for the potentially life-altering decisions they may need to take.
I will leave you with a more 'Scott' ending!
The phalloplasty should be illegal and hiding the complications behind the idea that the phalloplasty is about love and tolerance is revolting.
References:
1. Phalloplasty: Risks and Complications (2021). The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/phalloplasty/risks-and-safety.
2. Loree, J. Mark et al. (2020). Phalloplasty surgery in the male. Current Opinion in Urology. https://journals.lww.com/co-urology/Abstract/9000/Phalloplasty_surgery_in_the_male.99232.aspx.
3. University of Michigan Health System. (2021). Phalloplasty Complications. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/zb1285.
4. Nikolavsky, D. et al. (2015). Management of complications after phalloplasty. Therapeutic Advances in Urology. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1756287215575914.
5. Masson-Lecomte, Alexander, et al. (2013). Long-term complications following phalloplasty in trans men. European Urology Supplements. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1569905613606449.
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