Non-Binary is just one term used to describe individuals who may experience a gender identity that is neither exclusively male or female but may fall between or beyond both genders. Non-binary individuals may identify as genderqueer, agender (without gender), bigender, or more. None of these terms mean exactly the same thing, regardless all speak to an experience of gender that is not simply male or female.
Unfortunately, many medical providers and insurance plans believe that transgender people have to be moving towards either male or female genders, making pursuing surgical transformation problematic. In some cases, patients may be forced to make decisions that do not correspond with their true feelings.
At Crane Center, we offer several non-binary surgical options. Everyone’s journey is unique, and our surgeons will work with you to create a plan that is specific to you and your needs.
Non-Binary Top Surgery
Hormone therapy is not required for Top Surgery. Crane Center surgeons have several different ways of doing Top Surgery to get a more non-binary result. This includes variations in how incisions are done (longer, higher/lower, straighter), how much breast tissue is left behind, Areola size, nipple projection, and no nipples.
Metoidioplasty & Phalloplasty
At Crane Center, Top Surgery is not a pre-requisite for bottom surgery. While hormone therapy is required for Metoidioplasty and Phalloplasty, Urethral Lengthening, Scrotoplasty, Vaginectomy, and implants are all optional. Crane Center surgeons are a few of the only surgeons in the U.S. who will perform Urethral Lengthening without requiring Vaginectomy.
Vulvoplasty / Zero Depth Vaginoplasty
Vulvoplasty involves removing the penis, scrotum and testicles, creating the labia and clitoris, and re-positioning the urethral opening. It does not include the creation of the vaginal canal. Vulvoplasty is a good procedure for those who are not interested in receiving penetrative vaginal sex, have concerns about age, recovery and/or higher risk factors, and are not able to commit to the post-operative dilation required with Vaginoplasty. Unlike Vaginoplasty, pre-operative hair removal is not required.
Genital Nullification / Nullo
Genital nullification, Nullo, or Eunuch procedures involve removing all external genitalia to create a smooth transition from the abdomen to the groin. In some cases, this involves shortening the urethra. For patients born with a uterus, a hysterectomy is required prior to any genital nullification procedure. Your specific goals can be discussed with one of our surgeons to develop a plan that works for you.
Letters
Pre-operative letters will be required from Mental Health and Hormone (if applicable) providers as outlined in the WPATH Standards of Care.
Insurance
Our office has years of experience billing insurance for gender-affirming procedures for our non-binary patients. Our website’s insurance page includes a list of the insurance companies that we are able to work with at each location, and their letter requirements for pre-authorization. We will verify your insurance benefits prior to your consultation