Creating an Inclusive Gender-Affirming Surgical Environment

Area of Science:

• Medical Specialties
• Surgical Care
• Patient Advocacy

Background:

• Gender-affirming surgery (GAS) serves a heavily minoritized and stigmatized patient population.
• Specialized perioperative care is essential for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals undergoing GAS.
• Existing literature and clinical experience highlight the need for trauma-informed approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To offer practical considerations for creating trauma-informed, comprehensive, and affirming surgical environments for GAS patients.
• To provide recommendations for improving access to care and community support for TGD individuals.
• To advocate for TGD individuals within the broader healthcare landscape.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on GAS and trauma-informed care.
• Incorporation of personal experiences from community members and plastic surgeons.
• Development of practical guidelines for surgical environments and patient support.

Main Results:

• Affirming environments, robust social supports, and trauma-informed interactions are crucial.
• Empowering GAS patients as experts in their own experiences enhances care.
• Recommendations extend beyond the clinical setting to community connection and advocacy.

Conclusions:

• Creating inclusive and affirming surgical settings is paramount for GAS patients.
• Addressing systemic barriers and advocating for TGD individuals is vital for equitable healthcare access.
• A multi-faceted approach encompassing clinical practice, community support, and advocacy is necessary.