CLINICAL APPLICATIONS of LASERS in TRANSGENDER MEDICINE

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

6-2-2022

Publication Title

Lasers Surg Med

Abstract

Background: Hair removal and scar revision procedures can be critical components of the gender-affirmation process. Dermatologists and other laser surgeons are well-equipped to perform these minimally invasive gender-affirming procedures (MIGAPs). MIGAPs contribute to the physical transformation of transgender patients, reduce gender dysphoria, and improve psychosocial distress. (1) Yet, there is limited awareness and exposure to MIGAPs in dermatology residency training programs nationwide. (2) We present several cases of where lasers were used to align physical appearance to gender identity to increase awareness and education of this utility. Study Design/Materials and Method: A review of laser applications in transgender medicine and a retrospective case-series of three patients who underwent various MIGAPs at a single-center institution were performed. Results: Our transgender patients had several gender-affirming indications for laser hair removal, in which either a diode or Nd:YAG laser was used. Transgender women may opt for laser hair removal of the lower face and neck to align with current societal feminine appearance. A transgender woman anticipating vaginoplasty with creation of a vaginal cavity had medically-necessary laser hair removal of the scrotum to aid in postoperative wound healing, reduce infections, and reduce foreign body reactions. (3) A transgender man anticipating phalloplasty with urethral lengthening had laser hair removal of the urethral donor site, which was located on the medial aspect of the nondominant ventral forearm, although the medial or lateral aspect of the anterior thigh may also be a donor site. (4) Additionally, laser therapy with pulsed dye laser and fractional CO2 laser was utilized to minimize scarring of transfiguring surgical mastectomy scars in a transgender man. Other ablative and nonablative devices may be used to improve scar appearance as well. Conclusion: Laser surgeons play an essential role in MIGAPs. Laser applications specific to transgender medicine include lower face and neck hair removal, donor site preparation for genital gender-affirming surgery, and scar revision.

Volume

54

Issue

SUPPL 34

First Page

S28

Last Page

S29

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