Orchiectomy (Testes Removal)

Reducing dysphoria. Simplifying hormones. A meaningful step on your timeline. Orchiectomy is the surgical removal of the testes. For many MTF transgender patients, orchiectomy is a significant standalone procedure — independent of full genital surgery — that provides meaningful relief from gender dysphoria, eliminates testosterone production, and often simplifies or reduces hormonal medication requirements.

Orchiectomy can be performed as a standalone procedure earlier in the transition journey — before a patient is ready for or certain about full vaginoplasty — or as the first stage in a staged surgical plan. It is also performed as an integral part of vaginoplasty.

Significant reduction in gender dysphoria related to the presence of testes Elimination of endogenous testosterone production — often reduces or eliminates the need for anti-androgens A meaningful, relatively minor surgical step when not yet ready for full vaginoplasty May improve oestrogen therapy response once testosterone is eliminated Preserves penile and scrotal tissue for future vaginoplasty if desired

⚕️ Orchiectomy is irreversible — the testes cannot be reimplanted. Fertility is permanently ended. Sperm banking (cryopreservation) should be considered and discussed before proceeding if biological parenthood is a future possibility.

Anaesthesia

General anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia Duration 45-90 minutes

Hospital Stay

1 night recommended Return to Work 1-2 weeks (desk work) Exercise 4 weeks Fertility Permanently ended — sperm banking should be done before surgery if relevant Effect on Hormones Anti-androgen medication often reduced or stopped after surgery — confirmed with endocrinologist

Frequently Asked Questions

Will orchiectomy affect my ability to have vaginoplasty later?

Standalone orchiectomy is performed through the scrotum using incisions that preserve scrotal tissue for future labia majora construction if vaginoplasty is later planned. Dr. Bhavya Sree plans the orchiectomy incision with this future possibility in mind.

Will I still need hormone therapy after orchiectomy?

Yes — oestrogen therapy continues after orchiectomy. However, anti-androgen medications are typically no longer needed since testosterone production has been eliminated. Your endocrinologist will adjust your hormone protocol. Oestrogen is important for bone health, cardiovascular function, and general wellbeing — it should not be stopped.

Can I bank sperm before orchiectomy?

Yes — and this is strongly recommended if biological parenthood is a consideration now or in the future. Sperm cryopreservation (sperm banking) should be arranged before starting hormone therapy (hormones reduce sperm quality) and certainly before orchiectomy. Dr. Bhavya Sree can refer you to a fertility specialist for this.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

Your consultation with Dr. Bhavya Sree is a private, unhurried, and completely confidential conversation — with absolutely no obligation to proceed. You can expect: A thorough and respectful discussion of your goals, your medical history, and your timeline An honest explanation of what each procedure involves, what it achieves, and what it does not Clear information about the surgical process, recovery, and realistic outcomes A staged surgical plan if multiple procedures are being considered Discussion of any prerequisites — hormonal therapy, letters of support, or prior procedures A fully itemised, transparent cost estimate with no hidden fees No judgement. No pressure. No assumptions. Just an expert, compassionate conversation about your options.

Book your private consultation with Dr. Bhavya Sree — drbhavyaplasticsurgery.com | Visakhapatnam SECTION B: FEMALE TO MALE (FTM) — MASCULINISING SURGERY

FTM masculinising genital surgery creates male external genitalia — a phallus, scrotum, and male urethral function — using existing genital and body tissue. These are among the most technically complex procedures in reconstructive plastic surgery. Dr. Bhavya Sree's microsurgical training and reconstructive expertise are essential for these operations.