A TLH is a minimally invasive surgery, meaning the surgery is performed through small incisions in the abdomen and typically has a shorter recovery period in comparison to traditional surgery. This transgender surgery involves the removal of the uterus and the cervix by operating through small holes in the abdominal wall. These small holes provide access for a laparoscope (a tiny camera) and other small surgical instruments to be inserted in the abdomen during the procedure. The uterus is then removed by passing the tissue out through the reproductive canal, or through one of the small abdominal incisions.
In Cleveland, this transgender surgery procedure is an outpatient procedure in which the patient is discharged home the same day. The procedure itself lasts about 1 to 2 hours, and postoperative recovery in the hospital ranges from 2 to 6 hours before the patient is discharged home. After the transgender surgery, the surgeon will inject a pain-blocker in the abdominal wall to decrease post-op pain. The patient will go home with Tylenol as needed for pain as narcotics are typically not necessary for this post-op recovery. The recovery period varies from patient to patient and typically lasts about 1-2 weeks with restricted physical activity such as running, jumping, and lifting weights.
A laparoscopy is a great route of choice when undergoing a hysterectomy due to less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, shorter recovery period, and smaller incisions in comparison to traditional surgery.
A BSO surgery involves the removal of both ovaries and both fallopian tubes. This procedure can be done by itself or is commonly performed at the same time as a total laparoscopic hysterectomy. Because of the risk of ovarian cancer occurring in the fallopian tubes, both the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed.
As with any surgical procedure, there are still risks that may occur. These risks are rare but include bleeding, need for blood transfusion, infection, reaction to anesthesia, blood clots, or injury to nearby organs. You should speak directly to your surgeon if you have any specific concerns regarding risks.
If you are a trans person looking to receive transgender surgery in Cleveland, do not hesitate to speak with our knowledgeable and trusting gynecologist. We offer consultations in our offices in Beachwood, Westlake, and Middlefield. We want to be there every step of your transition to address any questions or concerns you may have.