Major gender-affirming genital surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia, so the patient is unconscious during the operation. Your anesthetist should explain the actual plan for your procedure rather than relying on a general description online. NHS: General anaesthetic.
What general anesthesia means
General anesthesia is different from a local anesthetic or light sedation. The anesthesia team monitors you during surgery and manages the medicines used. Johns Hopkins explains the different forms of anesthesia and the role of the anesthesiologist. Johns Hopkins: Types of anesthesia.
Before the operation
Tell the team about medicines, supplements, allergies and previous anesthesia experiences. Follow the hospital’s specific fasting and medication instructions. Ask in advance about anxiety, pain management and any concern about awareness during surgery. NHS: General anaesthetic.
Waking up after surgery
You are monitored in a recovery area as the anesthetic wears off. It is not accurate to promise that everyone wakes fully within a fixed number of minutes. The operation, medicines and individual response all matter. Johns Hopkins: Types of anesthesia.
Questions to take to your appointment
- Will my operation use general anesthesia, and why?
- Which of my regular medicines should I take on the day?
- How will nausea and pain be managed?
- Who should I contact if I have questions before admission?
This page replaces the earlier fixed wake-up estimate with a description of the process. The hospital’s instructions remain the relevant instructions for an individual patient.