Medical and aesthetic procedural dermatology recommendations for transgender patients undergoing transition

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019 Jun;80(6):1712-1721. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.05.1259. Epub 2019 Jan 21.

Abstract

Transgender individuals may transition to their identified gender through social, hormonal, and procedural methods by using a multidisciplinary team of health care providers, including dermatologists. In this review, we discuss the medical and aesthetic dermatologic needs related to the transitioning of transgender patients and provide therapeutic and procedural recommendations. In addition to routine cutaneous conditions, dermatologists may need to treat hormonal therapy-related complications. Acumen for genital dermatology and familiarity with gender reassignment surgery is important for the dermatologist caring for a transgender patient. From a structural standpoint, transgender beauty poses a unique aesthetic task. We identify key differences in the facial structure and physique of males versus those of females. Dermatologists may have a tremendous impact on the lives of transgender individuals who seek to realize their gender identity.

Keywords: aesthetic dermatology; affirmation; gender; injectable filler; neurotoxin; transgender; transgender dermatology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / transplantation
  • Alopecia / chemically induced
  • Alopecia / drug therapy
  • Body Contouring
  • Body Fat Distribution
  • Cosmetic Techniques*
  • Dermal Fillers / adverse effects
  • Dermal Fillers / therapeutic use
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Esthetics*
  • Face / anatomy & histology
  • Face / surgery
  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Gender-Affirming Surgery
  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones / adverse effects
  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones / pharmacology
  • Hair Removal / methods
  • Hirsutism / chemically induced
  • Hirsutism / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neurotoxins / therapeutic use
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures
  • Postoperative Complications / therapy
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Transgender Persons* / psychology

Substances

  • Dermal Fillers
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones
  • Neurotoxins