Transgender Surgery in India: Navigating Transformation

Overview

Transgender surgery in India is becoming more accepted and accessible than ever before. With growing societal support and advancements in medical care, more individuals are finding it possible to align their physical bodies with their gender identities.

In recent years, India has seen a significant increase in the number of transgender surgeries. According to a study by the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, there has been a rise of over 20% in the demand for these procedures annually. This trend reflects a broader shift towards greater acceptance and the availability of specialized medical services for transgender individuals.

This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about transgender surgery in India. We'll explore the different types of surgeries available, such as male-to-female (MTF) and female-to-male (FTM) procedures, and discuss their costs. You’ll also learn how to choose the right surgeon and what to expect in terms of preparation and recovery.

For expert advice and personalized care on transgender surgery, consult with a specialized plastic surgeon to explore your options and start your journey today.

Dr. Vinod Vij explains that the increasing number of transgender individuals seeking surgery is a reflection of broader social changes. "India is becoming more inclusive and supportive of transgender people. This shift is encouraging more individuals to take steps towards aligning their bodies with their gender identities."

In India, transgender surgeries are performed by a team of experienced surgeons and medical professionals. The surgeries are typically done in specialized medical centers and hospitals. 

The cost of transgender surgery in India is generally lower compared to other countries, making it an affordable option for many people.

Is Gender Reassignment Surgery Legal in India?

Yes, gender reassignment surgery in India is legal. Here’s a breakdown to make it easier to understand:

1. Legal Recognition:
   • Supreme Court Ruling: In 2014, the Supreme Court of India recognized the rights of transgender individuals through the NALSA v. Union of India judgment. This judgment upheld the right to self-identify one's gender, including the right to undergo SRS surgery in India without discrimination.
   • Self-Identification: Individuals have the right to identify their gender, regardless of whether they have undergone surgery.
2. Legislation:
   • Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019: This Act safeguards the rights of transgender persons, ensuring they can access healthcare, including gender-affirming surgeries, without facing discrimination.
   • Identity Certificate: Post-surgery, individuals can apply for a revised identity certificate, legally recognizing their chosen gender.
3. Healthcare Access:
   • National Human Rights Commission (NHRC): The NHRC has recommended that transgender individuals receive free SRS surgery in government hospitals or receive grants in India, ensuring broader access to necessary healthcare.

However, while the legal landscape is supportive, transgender individuals still face challenges such as societal stigma and varying levels of healthcare access across different regions of India.

For those interested in undergoing SRS surgery in India, it is advisable to consult with healthcare providers experienced in gender-affirming care and be aware of their legal rights under the current Indian laws.

Let’s look at a few transgender surgery experts, hospitals, and costs in India.

Take charge of your health and your life. Contact us today!

Transgender Surgery Doctors in India

1. Transgender surgery doctors in Mumbai

Dr. Vinod Vij

• Consultant Plastic & Cosmetic Surgeon in Navi Mumbai.
• Specializations: Focus on aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries and transgender surgery, including liposuction, body contouring, breast surgery, rhinoplasty, facelifts, and hair transplant surgeries.
• Memberships: Registered with Maharashtra Medical Council, active in various professional groups including the National Faculty for J&J Microsurgery Course.
• Years of Practice: 26 years

Dr. Ajit Kumar Borkar

• Plastic Surgeon in Mahim, Mumbai
• Memberships: Member of Medical Council of India (MCI)
• Member of the Indian Medical Association (IMA)
• Years of Practice- 45 years 

Dr. Samir Warty

• Consultant plastic and reconstructive surgery - S L Raheja Hospital, Mahim
• His special interests include abdominoplasty, laser resurfacing, mesolipolysis, plastic and reconstructive surgery, etc.
• Memberships - Indian Dental Association and American Association Of Orthodontists.
• Years of Practice - 41 years.

Dr. Prabha Yadav

• Head, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre.
• Her special interests include microvascular surgery, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, etc.
• Executive Committee Member of ISRM (Indian Society for Reconstructive Micro-Surgery) and APSI (Association of Plastic Surgeons of India).
• Years of Practice - 41 years.

2. Transgender surgery doctors in Delhi 

Dr. Vineet Malhotra

• Gender Reassignment specialist - VNA HOSPITAL.
• Special interests include Male sexual disorders - Erectile dysfunction, Premature ejaculation, Male sexual wellness, Penile implant, Sexual dysfunction, Penis treatment, Pre-marital check & counselling, Prostate screening, etc.
• Memberships - USI (Urological Society of India), AUA (American Urological Association), SASSM (South Asian society for sexual medicine), ISSM (International society for sexual medicine), and Society for ambulatory surgeons of India
• Years of Practice - 28 years.

Dr. Vinod Kaul 

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Triventis Healthcare, Kalkaji.
• Special interests include Bariatric (Gastric Bypass) Surgery, Breast Augmentation Surgery, Laparoscopic Sterilization, Preoperative treatment, and Pancreas transplantation etc.
• Memberships - Delhi Medical Council, DMA (Delhi Medical Association), and IMA (Indian Medical Association).
• Years of Practice - 46 years.

Dr. Manika Khanna 

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Gaudium IVF &Gynac Solution, Janakpuri.
• Her special interests include infertility treatment, laparoscopic surgery, etc.
• Memberships - ESHRE (The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology) and ASRM (American Society for Reproductive Medicine).
• Years of Practice - 27 years.

Transgender surgery doctors in Bangalore

Dr. Girish Nelivigi

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, ReSCUE - The Urology Center, Rajaji Nagar. 
• His special interests include Pediatric Urology, Kidney Stone Treatment, Urethral Stricture, Prostate biopsy, Orchidectomy, and microsurgical varicocelectomy.
• Memberships - USI (Urological Society Of India.
• Years of Practice - 30 years.

Dr. Shrinivas R P

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Manipal Hospital, Whitefield. 
• Special interests include the treatment of Bladder cancer, Kidney cancer, Kidney stones, Urinary infection, Prostate cancer, Kidney transplants, Stress incontinence, etc.
• Memberships - USI (Urological Society Of India), Karnataka Medical Council, and UICC-ICRETT fellowship, University of Southern California, LA.
• Years of Practice - 22 years.

Dr. K S Shiva Kumar

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, MShree Srinivasa Uro Care, Indira Nagar.
• His special interests include urology, andrology, laparoscopic surgery, and sexology.
• Memberships - IMA (Indian Medical Association), Bangalore Urological Society, and USI (Urological Society of India).
• Years of Practice - 27 years.

3. Transgender surgery doctors in Chennai

Dr. Sridev Barathan

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Parvathi Nursing Home, K K Nagar.
• Special interests include IVF, IUI, Artificial Insemination, Andrology, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, Embryo & Egg Donor Program, etc.
• Memberships - MACE (Manipal Academy of Clinical Embryologists), Academy Of Clinical Embryologists, MCI (Medical Council Of India), and Tamilnadu Medical Council.
• Years of Practice - 31 years.

Dr. Parimalam Ramanathan

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, London Harley Street Women & Fertility Centre, Perungudi. 
• Special interests include  IVF, IUI, Cervical Cerclage, Unilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy, Hysterectomy (Abdominal/Vaginal), etc.
• Memberships - RCOG (Royal College of Obstetrics &Gynaecology), BMS (British menopause society), ASRM (American Society of Reproductive medicine), BFS (British Fertility Society), ISUOG (International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics &Gynaecology), and FOGSI (Federation of Obstetric &Gynaecological Society of India).
• Years of Practice - 29 years.

Dr. Preethi P

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Prime OBG Women Speciality, Thiruvanmiyur.
• Special interests include  IVF, IUI, Andrology, Laparoscopic Ovarian cyst Removal Polyopectomy, Male and Female Fertility Enhancing Surgery, etc.
• Memberships - IMA (Indian Medical Association, FOGSI (Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India), ISAR (Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction), TAPISAR (Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry Chapter of India Society for Assisted Reproduction), and ASRM (American Society of Reproductive Medicine).
• Years of Practice - 33 years.

Transgender surgery doctors in Kolkata

Dr. Purushottam Sah

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Nightingale Hospital, Shakespeare Sarani.
• His special interests include gynecology, andrology, sexology, infertility, etc.
• Memberships - IMA (Indian Medical Association) and ISSM (International Society for Sexual Medicine).
• Years of Practice - 41 years.

Dr. Ranjana Tibrewal

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, The Apollo Clinic, Prince Anwar Shah Rd.
• Her special interests include Caesarean Section (C Section), Laparoscopic Surgery, Adolescent Gynecological Problems, Menopausal Problems, Breast Problems, and Hysteroscopy.
• Memberships - Bengal Obstetrics And Gynecology Society, Executive Committee Member ISOPARB (Indian Society Of Perinatology And Reproductive Biology).
• Years of Practice - 21 years.

Dr. Ramna Banerjee

• Specializes in Gender Reassignment, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Canal Road.
• Special interests include Caesarean Section (C Section), Mirena (Hormonal Iud), Essure System, Hysteroscopy Laparoscopic Surgery, Cervical Cerclage, Hysterectomy (Abdominal/Vaginal) etc.
• Memberships - RCOG (The Royal College Of Obstetricians And Gynaecologists); UK, GMC (General Medical Council; UK, BSCCP (The British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology); UK, and West Bengal Medical Council.
• Years of Practice - 23 years.

Transgender Surgery Hospitals In India

1. Transgender Surgery Hospitals in Mumbai

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

• Established in 2009. Accredited by the JCI (Joint Commission International) and NABH (the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers), (NABL) National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories, India, and CAP (College of American Pathology) Accreditation, USA.
• Possesses a Full-Time Specialist System (FTSS) that guarantees quick access to committed specialists who are only affiliated with KokilabenDhirubhai Ambani Hospital.
• Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital (KDAH) in Mumbai offers a wide range of gender-affirming surgeries, including male-to-female (MTF) and female-to-male (FTM) procedures like chest and genital reconstruction surgeries. With significant experience, KDAH has performed 27 gender reassignment surgeries, showcasing their expertise and dedication to transgender health care.

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S L Raheja Fortis Hospital, Mahim, Mumbai

• Established in 1981, it has been accredited by NABH and NABL.
• S. L. Raheja Hospital, Mumbai, a super specialty hospital is situated in Mahim's environs.
• It is famous for providing top-notch care in a number of specialties, including oncology, orthopedics, spine, neurology, cardiology, and limited-access surgery.

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Fortis Hospital, Mulund West, Mumbai

• Founded in 2002 and Fortis, Mulund received 4 JCI and 1 NABH accreditation.
• Since its founding in 1996, Brand Fortis has built more than 55 facilities to provide healthcare services inside and outside India.
• The specialities available include Cardiac surgery, nephrology, urology, neurosciences, digestive care, orthopaedics, and emergency and critical care.
• Fortis Mulund offers a range of gender-affirming surgeries, including male-to-female (MTF) and female-to-male (FTM) procedures. They have performed over 30 gender reassignment surgeries, showcasing their dedication and expertise in transgender healthcare.

2. Transgender Surgery Hospitals in Delhi

Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Old Rajendra Nagar, Delhi

• Established in 1951
• Accreditions:  OHSAS 18001:1999, ISO 9001:2000, ISO 14001:2004, ISO 15189:2007, NABH and NABL.
• Multispeciality hospital with state-of-the-art facilities and technology.
• One of India's finest hospitals.

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Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, Delhi

• Founded in 2005
• Accredited by NABH & NABL.
• Specialties: Aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, dental care, ENT, cancer care, cardiac surgery, neurosciences, orthopedics etc.
• The first hospital in India to be awarded "Stage 6" by HIMSS.  

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Indraprastha Apollo hospitals

• Founded in 1996 
• JCI and NABL accredited.
• Provides 115 telemedicine facilities, 10,000 beds spread over 64 hospitals, 2,200 pharmacies, and more than 100 primary care & diagnostic clinics spanning 9 countries.
• 52 specialities are housed under one roof

3. Transgender Surgery Hospitals in Bangalore

Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bangalore

• Manipal Hospital was founded in 1991 and received accreditations from NABH, NABL (ISQUA), and AAHRPP (Association for the Accreditation of the Human Research Protection Programs).
• Listed in the top 5 health facilities in the study "INDIA'S MOST CARING HOSPITALS."
• The hospital boasts a team of skilled surgeons and healthcare professionals with extensive experience in performing complex gender reassignment surgeries.
• Won the Golden Peacock National Quality Award - 2005 in the Services category.

Fortis Hospital

• Founded in 2006, Fortis Hospital, Bangalore (Bannerghatta Road),  accredited through the JCI (Joint Commission International), NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) and MTQUA (Medical Travel Quality Alliance).
• MTQUA has ranked it at No. 3 among the top hospitals in the world and No. 1 in India for medical tourism.
• Numerous awards have been given to the hospital, including the Asian Patient Safety Award, the AHPI Award, the Global Marketing Excellence Award, the Healthcare and Social Care Support Award, the National Energy Conservation Award 2014, and the International Medical Tourism Accreditations for Excellence in Care. 

Apollo Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore

• Founded in 2007, Apollo Hospital, Bangalore (Bannerghatta Road), is accredited by the JCI (Joint Commission International).
• The "Minimal Access Surgery Centre" (MASC), which focuses on minimally invasive surgical methods, is one of Apollo Hospitals' flagship centres of excellence in Bengaluru.
• According to the 2013 Week A C Nielsen Best Hospital Survey, Apollo Hospitals is Bangalore's second-best multi-speciality hospital.

4. Transgender Surgery Hospitals in Chennai

Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai

• Founded in 1983
• Accredited by the JCI and NABH.
• The first hospital in India to offer advanced techniques in radiosurgery, stereotactic radiotherapy
• Specialities: cancer, heart, bones, joints, and the spine; neurology; bariatric surgery; gastroenterology and colorectal surgery; ophthalmology; 
• Apollo Hospitals is also a leader in offering various plastic and reconstructive surgeries. This includes aesthetic procedures such as rhinoplasty, liposuction, body contouring, and reconstructive surgeries.

Fortis Hospital, Adyar, Chennai

• Founded in 1992
• Accredited by NABH.
• Provides comprehensive medical care in over 40 different specialities
• State-of-the-art medical technology and committed patient care

Apollo Speciality Hospital, Vanagaram, Chennai

• Established in 2013
• Accredited by NABH.
• Specialities: Cardiology, ENT, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Neurology, Nephrology, Ophthalmology, Gynaecology, Urology, Spine Surgery, Orthopedics, Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, etc.
• 260-bed hospital 
• Contains ICU, MICU, SICU, PICU, NICU facilities,
• A 24-hour emergency service is accessible.

5. Transgender Surgery Hospitals in Kolkata

Fortis Hospital - Anandapur, Anandapur, Kolkata

• Established in 2011
• Accredited by NABH.
• Provides a cutting-edge infrastructure and facility
• Specialities: digestive care, emergency care, urology, neurosciences, nephrology, orthopaedics, and critical care.
• The well-equipped ICU segment, which houses more than 70 beds, includes the MIC, CCU, recuperation and isolation beds, and separate high-dependency units.

Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals, Salt Lake, Kolkata 

• Established in 2003
• Accredited with JCI
• The first in introducing Novalis TX with Brain LAB, a pathbreaking technology in R (Radiation Therapy)
• Launching the nations first Cellvizio System
• Conducting East India's 1st Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis Replacement as well as first ever cadaver transplant.
• 2013 THE WEEK-A C Nielsen Best Hospital Survey named it Kolkata's top multi-speciality hospital.

Woodlands Multispeciality Hospital Ltd. Alipore Road, Kolkata

• Established in 1946
• Accredited with NAHB.
• Specialties: joint surgery, Spine surgery, Arthroscopy, reconstructive surgery, Deformity correction, Joint replacements, kidney care, Nephrology, urology, surgical oncology, among others.
• The only hospital with "Pharmacie-De-Qualitie" certification in Eastern India. 

SRS surgery cost in India

Depending on the region of the country, gender change surgery costs in India anywhere from USD 5000

Here is a list of Sex Change Surgery Costs in various cities in India.

Are you wondering why the gender change cost in India varies in different cities?

Here’s why…

Factors Affecting The Gender Change Surgery Cost in India

Several factors can affect the transgender surgery cost in India, including the type of procedure, the surgeon's experience and qualifications, and the location of the clinic or hospital.

Additionally, the cost may be influenced by the patient's overall health and any additional treatments or therapies that may be required. 

Factors such as the patient's insurance coverage and the availability of financing options may also determine the overall cost of the surgery.

So now you have an idea of what a gender reassignment surgery involves and how much the various surgeries may cost in India. 

You are probably wondering where the cost of sex reassignment surgery in india stands when compared to a few other countries. 

Well, let’s find out!

Full Gender reassignment surgery cost – India vs other countries

Types of Gender Reassignment Surgery in India & Their Cost

Let’s consider the various surgeries involved and male to female surgery cost in India. 

But what if you are female by birth and identify yourself as male? 

Read on to assess the female to male surgery cost in India.

Want to inquire about personalized treatment expenses? Don't hesitate. Talk to us today.

Female to Male Surgery In India- Top

Female to Male Surgery In India- Bottom

Facial Masculinization surgery

Does insurance cover the cost of sex change operations in India?

The availability of gender reassignment surgery, in addition to medical coverage, has been an important requirement. 

The Indian government launched Ayushman Transgender Health Insurance under the SMILE umbrella program on September 23, 2018 (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise). 

This gives each transgender person living in the rural poor the right to a 5-lakh-rupee insurance policy each year to cover the gender change operation cost in India.

The full health package includes insurance for all areas related to transition healthcare, including post-operative formalities. It can be used at both private and public health institutions.

You may be wondering about the success rate of transgender surgery in India. Let’s look at the statistics!

Success Rates of Transgender Surgery In India

The success rate of sex change surgery in India can vary depending on the person's overall health, the specific procedure and the skill of the surgeon performing it. 

Sources:

Are you looking for a reliable yet cost-effective gender change surgery? India may an excellent choice for you.

Why choose India for transgender surgery?

India is one of the most preferred destinations for transgender surgery due to the following reasons:

• Lower cost: The sex change surgery cost in India is significantly lower compared to other developed countries. This can make it an affordable option for those who may not have access to the procedure elsewhere.
• Qualified Surgeons: India has a number of qualified and experienced surgeons skilled in performing transgender surgery. Many of them have trained and practised in Western countries.
• Advancement in technology: India is developing rapidly in medical technology and has some of the world's most advanced medical facilities and equipment.
• Privacy and confidentiality: India offers a high level of privacy and confidentiality for patients who may not want to disclose their transgender status to their friends and family.
• Cultural sensitivity: India has a long tradition of tolerance and acceptance of transgender individuals, which can make it a more comfortable and welcoming environment for patients seeking transgender surgery.

It's important to note that while India offers many benefits for transgender surgery, it's also important to research and vet any surgeon you plan to use thoroughly. 

Take the first step to recovery. Get in touch with us for your treatment.

FAQs

How can I legally change my gender in India after surgery? 

After surgery, you need to submit medical proof and a formal application to local authorities to change your gender legally. Check with local offices or advocacy groups for specific steps.

How long is the recovery period after sex reassignment surgery in India? 

Recovery varies by surgery type. For example, chest surgery (FTM) typically takes 4-6 weeks, while vaginoplasty (MTF) may take 8-12 weeks. Follow your surgeon’s recovery plan closely.

Are there financial aid or insurance options for transgender surgery in India? 

Some insurance plans cover transgender surgeries, but the coverage varies. Check with your provider for details. If you need help with costs, NGOs and community groups may offer financial support.

What are the risks of transgender surgery? 

Transgender surgeries carry risks like any major surgery, including infection and bleeding. Each procedure has specific risks, so discuss these with your surgeon to fully understand them.

How should I prepare for transgender surgery in India? 

Preparation includes medical evaluations and possibly making lifestyle changes like quitting smoking. Emotional readiness and support from family, friends, or counselling are also crucial.

References:

https://nhrc.nic.in/

https://www.scconline.com/