While protocol varies, many surgeons request the discontinuation of T blockers/HRT before GRS surgery. One of the reasons surgeons require this is so that genital tissue can return to its relaxed state for the surgery. The purpose of this is to have as much elasticity in the tissue as possible to allow for the manipulation of tissue for depth and aesthetic purposes, depending on the technique.
When a patient undergoes an orchiectomy, the penile and scrotal tissue are subject to atrophy due to the lack of testosterone in the body. If a patient is seeking a scrotal skin graft GRS or hybrid technique (which many PPV/PPT surgeries are), this lack of testosterone in the body can impede upon the tissue being at its maximum potential for the surgery. Furthermore, if the patient does not have maximum potential of their penile skin at the time of GRS surgery, it might not be possible for the surgeon to bring their labia down as far as possible. Again, I’m speaking about some techniques and some surgeons, not all.
While an orchiectomy can be a valid next step for many trans women, it is definitely something to consider if you’re planning to have GRS surgery in the future. If you have a GRS technique or surgeon in mind, it’s best to understand what that particular technique or surgeon requires to maximize the success of your surgery before making a decision about an orchiectomy.
Please feel free to reach out should you have any questions about this information or a particular GRS technique/surgeon.
Procedures for SRS Surgeries