Laser Hair Removal for Genital Gender Affirming Surgery

The document discussed the critical role of laser hair removal (LHR) in preparing for genital gender-affirming surgery (GAS) to prevent complications like intra-vaginal and intra-urethral hair growth, which could cause infections and reduce patient satisfaction. It found LHR to be superior to electrolysis due to its higher efficacy, faster treatment times, and fewer side effects. Recommendations included treating the entire scrotum for male-to-female (MtF) surgeries and the skin-flap area for female-to-male (FtM) surgeries, using long-pulsed lasers with settings tailored to skin color, and spacing treatments 6 weeks apart, with surgery ideally 3 months after the final session. The study emphasized the importance of proper patient evaluation and communication between the GAS surgeon and dermatologist to ensure effective hair removal and better surgical outcomes.