The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Gender Affirming Surgery
in Florida

Gender affirming surgery helps align physical features with a person’s gender identity and can be a profoundly meaningful step for many transgender and nonbinary individuals. While not all plastic surgeons perform these procedures, many FSPS member surgeons offer gender affirming care as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan focused on safety, dignity, and support. Under Florida Law, these surgeries are only available to patients 18 years old and up.

Andrew H. Rosenthal, MD, FACS

What Is Gender Affirming Surgery?

Gender affirming surgery encompasses a range of procedures that adjust physical characteristics to better reflect an individual’s gender identity. These surgeries are often combined with psychological support, medical therapy, and other affirming interventions as part of a comprehensive care model.

Find A Surgeon

View Gallery

Procedures commonly sought by patients include:

Top Surgery

Top surgery modifies the chest to achieve a more traditionally masculine or feminine appearance.

Masculinizing Top Surgery (subcutaneous mastectomy): Involves removal of breast tissue and reshaping the chest for a flatter contour. The nipples may be resized and repositioned for natural appearance. Some patients choose to remove nipples entirely.
Feminizing Top Surgery (breast augmentation): Uses implants to increase volume and enhance breast shape after or alongside hormone therapy.

Facial Gender Surgery

Facial feminization or masculinization surgery reshapes facial features to create harmony between identity and appearance.

Facial Feminization may include brow contouring, rhinoplasty, lip lift, jawline reshaping, facial fat transfer, or tracheal shave.
Facial Masculinization may involve jaw or chin implants, nasal contouring, and changes to facial soft tissue structure.

The exact approach depends on the patient’s anatomy, goals, and preferences.

Mental Health Evaluation and Support

Psychological readiness and support are essential components of gender affirming care. Many patients work with a qualified mental health provider before surgery to ensure emotional preparedness and receive the required documentation needed for insurance or surgical planning.

FSPS member surgeons who offer gender affirming procedures often collaborate closely with mental health professionals and other members of a patient’s care team to deliver safe, respectful, and affirming treatment.

Benefits of Gender Affirming Surgery

Increased alignment between physical appearance and gender identity
Decrease in gender dysphoria
Improved comfort in daily life and social settings
Enhanced self-esteem and emotional well-being

Who May Be a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for gender affirming surgery if you:

Have persistent, well-documented gender dysphoria. The diagnosis must be made by a mental health professional who is experienced in this field.
Are in good physical, emotional and mental health
Have been evaluated and supported by a mental health professional
Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
Are at least 18 years old (in accordance with Florida law)
Hormone therapy is often recommended as an initial step, prior to surgery
Living in the desired gender role for a period of time (often 12 months) is often recommended, prior to surgery.

FSPS member surgeons who perform these procedures can help guide patients through the process with empathy and medical expertise. The WPATH standards of care (reference below) provide more detailed information on the requirements.

Gallery

View Gallery

The Procedure Process

Initial Consultation

Your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy and goals, review medical and psychological readiness, and discuss appropriate treatment options. If the procedure is not offered by a particular surgeon, they may help refer you to qualified professionals within the FSPS network or broader plastic surgery community.

Surgery

Top and facial surgeries are typically outpatient or involve short hospital stays. Techniques vary by individual and are tailored to gender goals and physical characteristics.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery times depend on the procedure, but most patients experience bruising and swelling that resolve over weeks. Long-term results continue to refine over months, with regular follow-up being essential to ensure full healing and satisfaction.

Breast Care after Gender affirming Surgery

Breast cancer monitoring (and monitoring of implants) is especially important after any gender affirming surgery due to the common use of hormones. Many of these guidelines continue to evolve, so it is important to follow-up regularly with your board certified surgeon and other care providers.

What to Expect

For those seeking gender affirming surgery, the outcome is often more than physical—it supports emotional and psychological well-being. Final results take time to mature but can be life-enhancing when performed as part of a supportive, thoughtful care plan.

Risks and Considerations

All surgery carries risks, including infection, scarring, asymmetry, dissatisfaction and the possibility of revision. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon trained in gender-related anatomy and techniques can help minimize risks and enhance results.

Why Choose an FSPS Member Plastic Surgeon?

Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Specialized training and extensive experience in facial rejuvenation
Commitment to safety and outstanding patient outcomes
Convenient locations throughout Florida

Please note: Not all FSPS members offer gender affirming procedures. We encourage you to contact individual surgeons to learn more about their expertise and services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many insurance plans cover medically necessary gender affirming procedures. Your provider and surgeon can help with documentation and preauthorization.

Hormone therapy may be recommended, especially prior to breast augmentation, but requirements vary. Your surgeon and care team can help determine the appropriate path.

No. Current Florida law prohibits gender affirming surgery for individuals under 18.

Related Services and Support

Mental Health Evaluation and Letters of Readiness
Hormone Therapy (via endocrinologist)
Voice Training
Hair Restoration or Removal

Serving Florida Communities Statewide

FSPS surgeons proudly serve patients across Florida, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and beyond.

What Should I Do Next?

Whether you are seeking a surgeon or simply exploring options, FSPS can help connect you to highly trained professionals committed to respectful, safe care.

Find a Surgeon

Florida Law and Care for Minors

At this time, gender affirming surgical procedures are not legally permitted for minors under the age of 18 in the state of Florida. FSPS surgeons adhere to all current laws and practice standards to ensure safe and ethical care.

Gender Affirming Surgery in Florida