THE REPERCUSSIONS OF SEXUAL REASSIGNMENT SURGERY ON TRANSGENDER PEOPLE

Abstract

This article sought to analyze, through a literature review, studies and evidence on sex reassignment surgery and its consequences. Sex reassignment surgery is considered the most efficient treatment for gender dysphoria, especially genital surgeries. Several stages are involved in a preoperative period of a gender reassignment surgery, and this preparation can take up to 12 months to complete. With regard to vaginoplasty surgery, there are two techniques used: penile inversion, which is the most performed due to the possibility of greater conservation of innervation and lower complication rate, and vaginoplasty with a rectosigmoid approach, used in specific cases. For the construction of male genitalia, there is the possibility of choosing between metoidioplasty, which consists of the construction of the penis through the clitoris, phalloplasty, performed through skin flaps, and the implantation of a penile prosthesis. A beneficial effect on the quality of life after sex reassignment surgery in transgender people is evidenced, encompassing sexual and mental health issues. However, there is a paucity of current evidence on the procedure and post-surgery satisfaction questionnaires, which hinders the comprehensive care of these patients.