Gender Reassignment Surgery Male to Female in Bangkok, Thailand

What are the prerequisites for surgery?

Thai surgeons strictly adhere to WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) guidelines. You must provide: 1) Two separate recommendation letters from qualified mental health professionals (psychiatrists/psychologists). 2) Proof of continuous hormonal therapy for at least 12 months. 3) Proof of living in your gender identity for at least 12 months (Real Life Experience). You must also be at least 18 years old (or 20 for some clinics without parental consent).

Which surgical technique is best for me?

This depends on your anatomy and goals. Penile Inversion is standard but may lack depth if tissue is limited. Scrotal Skin Inversion (Thai Technique) uses scrotal skin for depth, preserving sensitive penile skin for the clitoris. PPV (Peritoneal Pull-Through) uses abdominal lining for a self-lubricating, deep canal. Sigmoid Colon is often reserved for revisions or those needing maximum depth. Your surgeon will recommend the best option during consultation.

How long do I need to stay in Thailand?

You must commit to a stay of at least 3 to 4 weeks (21-30 days). This includes the pre-op consultation, surgery (5-7 days in hospital), and 2-3 weeks of post-op recovery in a hotel. During this time, you will have frequent follow-ups to remove packing, catheters, and stitches, and—most importantly—to learn how to dilate properly under nurse supervision.

Will I have sensation after surgery?

Preserving sensation is a primary goal of Thai surgeons. They use microsurgical techniques to carefully separate the neurovascular bundle (the nerves supplying the penis) and use it to construct the clitoris. While numbness is common immediately after surgery due to swelling, sensation typically returns gradually over 3 to 6 months. Most patients report achieving orgasm after full healing.

Is dilation painful?

Vaginal dilation is essential to maintain depth and width. Initially, it can be uncomfortable or painful, but it should not be agonizing. In Bangkok, nurses will teach you the correct technique to minimize pain. Over time, as tissues heal, dilation becomes part of a routine (like brushing teeth) and less uncomfortable. Adherence to the schedule is critical for long-term success.

Do I need to stop hormones before surgery?

Yes. Most surgeons require you to stop taking estrogen and anti-androgens 2 to 4 weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots (DVT). You can usually resume hormones a few weeks after surgery, once you are mobile. Your surgeon will provide a precise timeline for stopping and restarting your HRT.

Can I combine GRS with other surgeries?

Yes, many patients combine GRS with Breast Augmentation (BA) or Tracheal Shave (Adam's Apple reduction). Combining procedures saves on anesthesia and hospital costs. However, combining GRS with Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is often discouraged due to the sheer length of surgery and the physical toll on the body. It is often better to stage these major surgeries.

What happens if I have complications back home?

Serious complications are rare, but minor issues like granulation tissue or urinary spraying can occur. Before leaving Bangkok, your surgeon will ensure you are healing well. It is vital to have a supportive gynecologist or trans-friendly GP back home who can handle minor follow-ups. Thai surgeons are generally very responsive via email/video for long-term questions.

Is the vagina aesthetically natural?

Aesthetics are a major focus of Thai surgeons. They aim to create a result that is indistinguishable from a cisgender vagina, including a clitoris, labia minora, and labia majora. Many patients report that even gynecologists have difficulty telling the difference without a detailed exam. You will be shown before-and-after photos during consultation to set realistic expectations.

Do I need to do hair removal before surgery?

For the standard Penile Inversion technique used in the West, permanent hair removal (electrolysis/laser) is required. However, for the Thai Scrotal Skin Inversion technique, hair removal is often NOT required beforehand because the surgeon scrapes the hair follicles from the skin graft during surgery. Always verify this with your specific surgeon, as requirements vary.

Pioneers of the "Thai Technique"

Decades of Exclusive GRS Experience

Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists

Board Certified in Thailand & Internationally

PPV & Colon Experts

Leaders in Minimally Invasive Techniques

Expert Vetting

We ensure our partner clinics meet international JCI standards and that surgeons have verifiable experience and board certifications in plastic surgery.

Package Coordination

We help you find all-inclusive packages that bundle surgery, hospital stay, and recovery accommodation to provide a clear, upfront cost.

Psychiatric Letter Guidance

We can advise you on the requirements for psychiatric letters and, in some cases, connect you with local professionals for the required evaluations.

Virtual Consultations

We facilitate preliminary video calls with surgeons to discuss technique options (PPV vs Skin Graft) and review your medical history.

Travel Logistics

From airport pick-ups to booking long-stay hotels near your clinic, our team helps manage the 3-4 week itinerary required for safe recovery.

Patient Advocacy

We are by your side to answer questions, facilitate communication with the hospital, and ensure your experience is respectful and supportive.