Patient Preferences and Perceptions Regarding Their Gender-Affirming Plastic Surgeon

We sought to better understand the preferences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients regarding the professional qualities and gender identity of their gender-affirming plastic surgeon, as well as whether they preferred a surgeon who identifies as a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual or gender minority (LGBTQ+) community.

An online survey was made available to TGD patients from the senior authors' practice from December 5, 2022, to January 3, 2023. Respondents were asked about their preferences regarding the gender identity and sexual orientation of their plastic surgeon, as well as whether they associated certain attributes with either gender or the LGBTQ+ identity status of their plastic surgeon. Qualitative responses were also recorded.

Of the 461 patients who received e-mails, 133 completed the survey (28.9%). While most respondents indicated no preference for the gender of their surgeon (67.7%), those with a preference preferred a female surgeon (88.4%). A majority (71.4%) indicated that they would feel more comfortable with an LGBTQ+ surgeon as they believed them to be more empathetic and elicit more comfort.

A majority of TGD patients felt more comfortable with a surgeon from the LGBTQ+ community. Importantly, however, many expressed that surgeons who demonstrate cultural competency and respectful bedside manner can provide equal care, irrespective of identity. As a field, plastic and reconstructive surgery should strive to meet the needs of this community and continue to educate and diversify its workforce.