<< Back to the abstract archive
Patient Reported Outcomes in Gender Affirming Surgery ("top surgery"/ mastectomy – Female to Male, Female to Agender/ non-binary)
Raymond Wen, BS
Teonna Sharpe, BS
Cristiane Ueno, MD
The Ohio State University College of Medicine
2024-01-26
Presenter: Raymond Wen, BS
Affidavit:
I certify that the material proposed for presentation in this abstract has not been published in any scientific journal or previously presented at a major meeting. The work on this project fully represents the original work of the student.
Director Name: Amy Moore, MD, FACS
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
This study aims to explore the direct and indirect effects of "top surgery" or mastectomy/transmasculine chest surgery, a form of gender-affirming surgery (GAS), on the quality of life (QoL) of transgender and non-binary individuals. Gender dysphoria, characterized by distress arising from incongruence between assigned sex at birth and gender identity, often leads individuals to seek interventions like cross-sex hormone therapy and GAS to align physical characteristics with gender identity. The recent surge in gender-affirming surgeries in the United States (48,000 procedures between 2016 and 2020) reflects increasing recognition and support with eased healthcare barriers.
Existing literature suggests an overall improvement in QoL post-GAS, including enhanced self-esteem, body satisfaction, and mental health outcomes. However, the relationship between these positive outcomes and potential regrets following mastectomy or transmasculine chest surgery remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the impact of "top surgery" on individuals' QoL, satisfaction with surgery, decision-making processes, and overall health-related QoL.
Through this exploration, the study aims to contribute valuable insights that can inform future clinical practices, guideline modifications, and government policies. The goal is to offer more personalized care and effective support to the transgender and non-binary community.
