Scrotal Reconstruction in FTM Transsexuals: A Novel Scrotoplasty

BACKGROUND: One of the goals of genital construction in female-to-male transsexuals is the creation of an aesthetically acceptable result, both for phallus and scrotum, leaving minimal morbidity and recreating function. In the last 15 years, transsexuals have become more demanding, and scrotoplasty has received more attention than before. Traditional flaps for scrotal reconstruction in a biological male do not really apply in transsexuals: the labia majora seem to achieve the best results; still, they may not provide enough tissue and can be located much too posteriorly.

METHODS: Since November of 1993, more than 300 scrotal reconstructions (and radial forearm flap phalloplasties) have been performed in female-to-male transsexuals by the authors’ gender team. Based on the authors’ large experience, they modified previous techniques and developed a novel scrotoplasty consisting of a V-Y advancement of the major labia together with a rotation of these superiorly based labial flaps. Refinements (to achieve better sensation and shaping) are described. Twelve months after the original operation, one testicle implant and erection prosthesis procedures were performed.

RESULTS: No major complications related to scrotoplasty occurred in the authors’ series. Patients were all pleased at short- or long-term follow-up with their scrotum, located in its natural position in front of the legs.

CONCLUSION: The authors’ novel scrotoplasty can become the ultimate surgical technique to reconstruct the scrotum in female-to-male transsexual patients, further improving the final cosmetic result, with the possibility of enhanced erogenous sensitivity.

Authors: Selvaggi G, Hoebeke P, Ceulemans P, Hamdi M, Van Landuyt K, Blondeel P, De Cuypere G, Monstrey S.Department of Plastic Surgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
Source: Plast Reconstr Surg. 2009 Jun;123(6):1710-8. Abstract.

View 3D graphics of the VY Scrotoplasty technique here.