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Meet Nahuel

Nahuel

Nahuel's story

Annual Trans Surgery Fund recipient

Nahuel (he/him) is a 21-year-old Latino trans man currently seeking top surgery. Nahuel had previously attempted to get surgery covered through insurance but was denied, after starting a small business that unfortunately could not be sustained alongside university work. He later began fundraising via GoFundMe but was unsuccessful.

Having reached a point where gender dysphoria had become crippling, as many other trans people understand, top surgery grants him access to the medically urgent and necessary gender-affirming care he desperately requires. Surgery will allow Nahuel to be one step closer to happiness and one step closer to feeling comfortable in his body, an undeniable liberation that can only improve one's quality of life.

Nahuel is a physics and computer science undergraduate student hoping to pursue graduate programs in creative writing. He wishes to take his science background and apply it to developing science fiction stories.

Nahuel's timeline

  • Award Granted

    March 28, 2022

    Nahuel was granted a Surgery Fund Award!
  • Care Received

    February 9, 2023

    Nahuel successfully completed surgery with Dr. Mosser

Grant details

$8,000 towards gender-affirming care.





About FTM Top Surgery

On average, it costs $12,000+ for Nahuel's care.

What is it?

FTM/N top surgery is a surgical procedure that removes breast tissue and reshapes the chest contour to create a more traditionally masculine or gender-neutral appearance.

What is life like for a person who needs this care?

Prior to care, many trans masc people experience dysphoria that impacts their daily life. One of the most common and heartbreaking experiences we hear from applicants is that they cannot give hugs to their loved ones without feeling intense distress with their chest. In addition, reliance on chest binding can cause strain over long periods of time.

How accessible is it for trans folks to receive this care?

While top surgery is often categorized as a covered benefit in many insurance plans, the reality is that it's frequently denied coverage. Many people report unsuccessful attempts to appeal for coverage. In addition, finding skilled surgeons experienced in performing top surgery can be extremely challenging, particularly in states and regions most affected by anti-trans healthcare legislation.

What is the impact of this care on the recipient’s life?

Many trans folks who undergo top surgery report massive improvements to their overall well-being and mental health, leading to increased confidence and more comfort in relationships, navigating public spaces, and more.