Chaz Bono Gender Reassignment Surgery

category: Diseases and Conditions,MyDocHub
by Lisa,

According to Chaz Bono’s doctor, Chaz Bono, the 41-year old son of pop legends Sonny Bono and Cher has officially completed his gender reassignment surgery and now officially a male. As part of the process, Chaz Bono recently also changed his legal name and gender.

Chaz Bono also underwent hormone therapy in addition to gender reassignment surgery. Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Salzhauer says, “Officially gender reassignment surgery entails changing the genitalia to that of the opposite sex. This is a reconstructive procedure often performed by reconstructive Urologist and Cosmetic Surgeon. Cosmetically speaking, the plastic surgery procedures that usually accompany a female to male sex reassignment are breast reduction, chin and jaw enhancements and body contouring with liposuction.”

Demographics

Reliable statistics are extremely difficult to obtain. Many gender reassignment procedures are conducted in private facilities that are not subject to reporting requirements. Gender reassignment surgery is often conducted outside of the United States. The number of gender reassignment procedures conducted in the United States each year is estimated at between 100 and 500. The number worldwide is estimated to be two to five times larger.

Diagnosis/Preparation

Gender identity is an extremely important characteristic for human beings. Assigning it must take place immediately after birth, for the mental health of both children and their parents. Changing gender identity is among the most significant changes that a human can experience. It should therefore be undertaken with extreme care and caution. By the time most adults come to surgery, they have lived for many years with a dissonant identity. The average in one study was 29 years. Nevertheless, even then they may not be fully aware of the implications of becoming a member of the opposite gender.

In-depth psychological counseling should precede and follow any gender reassignment surgical procedure.

Sex change surgery is expensive. The cost for male to female reassignment is $7,000 to $24,000. The cost for female to male reassignment can exceed $50,000.

Aftercare

Social support, particularly from one’s family, is important for readjustment as a member of the opposite gender. If surgical candidates are socially or emotionally unstable before the operation, over the age of 30, or have an unsuitable body build for the new gender, they tend not to fare well after gender reassignment surgery. However, in no case studied did the gender reassignment procedure diminish their ability to work.

Risks

All surgery carries the risks of infection, bleeding, and a need to return for repairs. Gender reassignment surgery is irreversible, so a candidate must have no doubts about accepting the results and outcome.