Questions to Ask at Your Gender-Affirming Surgery Consult

Surgery consults can feel like a lot. You may be taking in new information, navigating nerves, or trying to ask big questions in a short amount of time. Going in with a prepared list can help you feel more grounded and make sure you leave with the information you need to make decisions that feel right for you.

You don’t have to ask every question on this list. Think of it as a menu—pick what feels most relevant to your needs, body, and situation.

Insurance & Costs

Money and insurance conversations can be stressful, but clarity here can save you surprises later.

• “What’s included in the quoted price?”
• “Are there any potential ‘hidden’ costs I should plan for?”
• “Will your office help with insurance paperwork or appeals if coverage is denied?”

You might also ask whether anesthesia, facility fees, lab work, compression garments, or follow-up visits are included or billed separately.

Complications & How They’re Handled

Every surgery carries risk. A trustworthy surgeon will talk openly about this without minimizing your concerns. Pay attention not just to what they say, but how they say it. Clear, honest answers are a good sign.

• “What complications are most common for this procedure?”
• “What complications are rare but possible?”
• “How are complications handled if they come up?”
• “What support would I receive if something goes wrong?”

Scarring & Results

Scarring and healing can look different depending on body type, skin tone, and surgical technique. It’s okay to ask for realistic examples, not just ideal outcomes.

• “What does typical scarring look like for this procedure?”
• “Do you have photos showing how scars mature over time?”
• “Do you have examples on people with my skin tone?”
• “What can I do before and after surgery to support good healing?”

Recovery Timeline

Knowing what recovery actually looks like can help you plan work, care, and support.

• “What does recovery look like day by day and week by week?”
• “When can I return to work, school, or daily activities?”
• “When can I safely resume exercise or physical hobbies?”
• “Are there restrictions I should know about?”

If you have caregiving responsibilities, a physical job, or limited time off, naming that can help the surgeon tailor guidance.

Anatomy & Personal Considerations

Your body is unique, and your care should reflect that. A good surgeon will explain what’s possible for you, without judgment or pressure.

• “How will my anatomy, body type, or medical history affect my options or results?”
• “Are there limitations or special considerations I should be aware of?”

Revisions & Satisfaction

Revisions are more common than people often talk about, and asking about them up front is a form of self-advocacy.

• “What happens if I’m not satisfied with my results?”
• “Are revisions included in the surgical fee, or is there an additional cost? In other words, how is it handled?”

Aftercare & Support

You deserve support beyond the operating room. Knowing help is available can make recovery feel much less scary.

• “Who do I contact with questions or concerns after surgery?”
• “Is there support available after hours or on weekends?”
• “Is there a nurse line or on-call provider?”

Experience Working With Trans Patients

You have the right to ask about a provider’s experience and training. Affirming care isn’t just about a surgeon's technical skills, but also about respect, understanding, and open communication.

• “How much experience do you have working with trans patients?”
• “What sort of additional training in gender-affirming surgeries have you had?”

Follow-Up Appointments

Ongoing care matters. Ask how long post-op care typically continues and what’s considered standard.

• “How many follow-up visits are included?”
• “What happens if I need additional support later on?”

Traveling for Surgery

If you’re traveling—especially to a provider in a state with anti-trans laws—logistics and safety matter. Some offices have dedicated staff or experience supporting traveling patients and can offer helpful guidance.

• “Do you have recommendations for lodging or post-op stays?”
• “Are there travel timelines I should plan around?”
• “Do you work with out-of-state patients often?”

A Gentle Reminder

You don’t need to ask every question perfectly—or at all in one visit. It’s okay to pause, take notes, or say, “I need time to think about that.” A consult is about gathering information, not making a final decision on the spot.

Need help affording gender affirming surgery? Learn about Point of Pride’s Annual Trans Surgery Fund, which provides financial aid to trans folks who cannot afford or otherwise access healthcare.