Orchiectomy for Transfeminine and Non-Binary Individuals

Orchiectomy, the surgical removal of one or both testicles, is a gender-affirming procedure that can be performed as a standalone intervention or as part of a broader transition plan. Under SOC8 (Standards of Care Version 8) from WPATH, orchiectomy is recognized as a medically necessary procedure for individuals experiencing persistent gender dysphoria related to their testes.

Orchiectomy

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Surgical Process –

Surgical Options

Simple Orchiectomy: Removal of both testicles via scrotal incision
Radical Orchiectomy: Includes removal of spermatic cord (not typical for gender-affirming care)
Scrotectomy (optional): Removal of scrotum; not recommended if planning vaginoplasty

Procedure Details

Anaesthesia: General or local with sedation
Incision made in the scrotum
Testicles removed, blood vessels sealed
Incision closed with dissolvable sutures
Duration: 30–60 minutes
Usually outpatient (same-day discharge)

Recovery Timeline

Week 1–2: Rest, pain management, avoid heavy lifting and sex
Week 3–6: Gradual return to normal activities

Full recovery: 4–8 weeks

Preparing for Your procedure Consultation with Mr Vahidi

During the Consultation

What to Expect:

Meet Mr Vahidi who will take examine you and review your medical history.
Sign consent forms and discuss photo documentation (optional).
Discuss surgical options: simple orchiectomy vs. orchiectomy with scrotectomy (if applicable).
Review risks, benefits, and recovery timeline.

Topics to Discuss

What type of incision will be used?
Will scrotectomy be performed? (Important if you’re considering future vaginoplasty)
What is the expected recovery time?
What post-op care will be provided?
Will hormone therapy need to be adjusted after surgery?

Procedure Timeline

Surgery Time

1 to 1/2 Hours

Time Off Work

2-3 Weeks

Hospital Stay

Day Case/Ovenight

Bathing/Shower

1 Week

Walking

1 Day

Full Exercise

4-6 Weeks progressive recovery and shoulder movement

Compression Garments

N/A

Prone Sleeping

1-2 Weeks

Sexual Activity

4-6 Weeks

Full Recovery

4-6 Weeks

Driving

4-6 Days

Air Travel

4 weeks

Icons courtesy of Icons8

Risks and Side Effects

Short-term: Bleeding, infection, bruising, anaesthesia reaction
Long-term: Infertility, fatigue, decreased libido, osteoporosis
Psychological: Often positive impact on gender dysphoria

Benefits

Stops testosterone production
Reduces need for hormone blockers
May improve feminisation effects of estrogen
Reduces cancer risk
Can simplify future vaginoplasty
Often improves mental health and body confidence

Important Considerations

Orchiectomy is irreversible
Sperm banking recommended before surgery
Lifelong hormone therapy required
Discuss all options with your healthcare provider

The Royal College of Anaesthetists Anaesthesia Explained

Patient.info Postoperative complications are problems which arise as a result of you having had surgery, which were not an intentional effect of the surgery.

Links & Downloads

Royal College of Anaesthetists Risk Information

Patient Information on Post Operative Complications.

Navigating Surgical Risks

Potential Complications of

Common Complications After

While procedure is generally a safe and has high satisfaction rates, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. These can vary depending on the surgical technique used

General Surgical Risks

Bleeding: Excessive bleeding may occur during or after surgery
Infection: Though rare, infections can develop at incision sites
Poor wound healing: Delayed healing or wound reopening (dehiscence) may require medical attention
Hematoma: A collection of blood under the skin that can cause swelling and pain
Seroma: Fluid buildup under the skin, often managed with surgical drains

Procedure-Specific Risks

Anesthesia risks: Includes allergic reactions, airway issues, or heart complications