Orchiectomy
An orchiectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove the testicles. Some transwomen who are not
quite ready for full gender affirmation surgery with a vaginoplasty may choose to have an orchiectomy.
By removing the testicles, a major source of testosterone production is eliminated and some degree of
secondary feminization can be achieved. A side benefit of having the orchiectomy procedure is that it also
allows for the discontinuation of anti-androgen medication and can reduce the necessary dosage of
estrogen medications.
To learn more about Orchiectomy, please request a complimentary consultation with Dr. Hadeed or call our office at 310.970.2940 to schedule your appointment.
You will need to provide two letters of recommendation from two separate mental health therapists, one
of whom must hold a doctorate degree, in order to have the procedure. The surgery is usually performed
as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. A single incision, approximately 5 cm in length, is
made in the midline of the scrotum. The testicles are removed from the incision, and then the incision is
closed. The scrotal skin is preserved to allow for the creation of labia during a vaginoplasty. In most
instances, you may return to work in one week.
