During sexual reassignment surgery from male to female, the penile skin is inverted and a vaginal canal is opened beneath the opening to the urethra and the prostate gland.

The amount of penile shaft skin will determine the vaginal depth, which is of great concern to most patients.

Using the full thickness skin graft from the scrotal skin can help to create the most depth in the vagina.

A functional clitoris is formed from some of the glands at the head of the penis. The nerves and vessels here will ensure that the clitoris is actually sensitive and not just there for appearance.

It is necessary to have a full health check-up within three months of having sexual reassignment surgery. Patients must also be at least 18 years old, and those under 20 will need parental permission to have the surgery.

Patients should not use hormones as these can increase the risk of blood clots.

Before your surgery, preferable in your consultation, let your surgeon know if you are taking any medications, whether prescription or non-prescription. You should also tell them whether you have any allergies or medical conditions.

It’s important to stop smoking for at least 2 weeks before surgery, because this can affect how you react to the anesthetics. Smoking can also prolong the healing process post-surgery.

Also stop taking Aspirin, blood-thinning medications and vitamins and herbs for at least 2 weeks before surgery, as removing these will reduce the chance of post-operative bleeding.

After sexual reassignment surgery, you will need to carefully follow the doctor’s instructions for proper care of your new body.

They will teach you how to care for your new vagina and will provide you any medications you may need during the healing process.

After 7 to 10 days, the doctors will take out the stitches and you will be able to go home.

The new vagina will be able to function 6 weeks after surgery. After this point, the patient can engage in vaginal intercourse.

Lubrication should be applied although some may occur naturally.

Avoid any overly strenuous physical activity post-surgery for the first 6 weeks to minimize the risk of any complications.

If you are HIV positive, then you are a risk to hospital personnel. For this reason you are asked to pay an additional 30% of the original charge.