A transgender individual is defined as someone who does not identify with the gender assigned to them at birth. Growing acceptance of shifting notions of gender fluidity has altered the face of aesthetic medicine. As the LGBTQ+ community has felt safer in the mainstream, their desire for aesthetic alteration – previously pigeon-holed as nontraditional or ‘niche’ – has been given visibility, vision and voice. Overall demand has also leapt; the number of gender-affirming surgeries performed in 2019 was nearly triple that seen just three years prior.
The tag ‘gender-affirming’ is still mostly attached to the word ‘surgery.’ However, in the quest for gender euphoria the phrase ‘gender- affirming procedure’ has emerged, widening the umbrella. “We are far beyond top and bottom surgery,” stated dermatologist Brian Ginsberg, MD,
owner-associate of Chelsea Skin & Laser (New York City, N.Y.), whose medical and aesthetic practice sees a significant number of patients seeking gender-affirming procedures. “Virtually the entire aesthetic armamentarium is employable and at the end of the day, none of the techniques are novel. It is just about using these techniques in strategic ways,” he asserted.
“Guided by our understanding of what features are conventionally masculine and feminine, we help the patient understand what we can modify that would help them better express their gender identity,” Dr. Ginsberg continued. “And while many individuals are confident in their identity, others are still exploring their gender and/or how they would like to express it. We are uniquely positioned to help them because almost every procedure that we do is temporary.”
Compassion in Care
Alexander Z. Rivkin, MD, director of Westside Aesthetics (Los Angeles, Calif.) agreed. “Less invasive nonsurgical treatments are critical for the subtle aspects,” he added. “There are so many details that really make the difference. Surgery can be essential, but it is imperfect. The adjunctive therapies take the result to a higher level. There will be maintenance required but the result can be extremely rewarding for everyone involved.” Dr. Rivkin’s investment in the community stemmed from his belief that all people should have access to quality care. “The positive impact on quality of life is extremely satisfying, and the technical challenge is stimulating in profound ways as well.”
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