Non Binary How to Decide on Surgery?
How do you decide when to proceed with medical/surgical procedures as non-binary? Dr. Z explains why this is challenging and the key question to ask.
This is tough to answer because non-binary people lean different ways on the spectrum—some lean masculine, some feminine, some are right in the middle and like to move between. Having conclusive, permanent surgery becomes challenging when sometimes you want to present more feminine, sometimes more masculine.
It's easier when someone identifies as trans binary—they know exactly what type of binary congruence they're trying to achieve. But for non-binary individuals, Dr. Z asks a key question: Is this something you've always wanted regardless of your gender expression or identity?
Example: Many non-binary individuals want chest surgery (mastectomy) not because it falls into a gender category or puts them toward masculine end of spectrum, but because they never felt comfortable with their chest regardless of gender expression. They just want it removed. If removing it won't affect you no matter how your gender identity evolves or whether you go more feminine/masculine, that makes the decision easier.
Watch to find out why procedures like subtle facial masculinization/feminization or starting hormones are tougher decisions, why any transition service involves taking a risk, and why the best you can hope is that what you're attaining makes you happier longer than what you're giving up.
