Dr. Lee Zhao
- Private Insurance
- Medicaid (Amida Care only)
- Medicare
Note: Appointments are scheduled through Dr. Rachel Bluebond-Langner's office.
Reconstructive Urologist Specializing in Gender-Affirming Surgery
Dr. Lee C. Zhao, MD, is a highly skilled reconstructive urologist based in New York City at NYU Langone Health. Known for his expertise in robotic-assisted urologic surgery and complex gender-affirming procedures, Dr. Zhao provides trans and nonbinary patients with expert, compassionate care as part of their surgical transition journey.
At NYU Langone, Dr. Zhao holds several prominent leadership positions. He serves as Co-Director of the Transgender Reconstructive Surgery Program and is a Professor in both the Departments of Urology and Plastic Surgery at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. In addition, he is the Unit Surgical Director at Tisch Hospital and leads the NYU Health System's Male Reconstructive Surgery division.
Phalloplasty Expertise at NYU Langone
A leader in innovation within the field of gender-affirming surgery, Dr. Zhao collaborates closely with Dr. Rachel Bluebond-Langner on primary phalloplasty cases. Dr. Zhao and Dr. Bluebond-Langner perform the Radial Forearm Flap (RFF) and Anterolateral Thigh (ALT) methods of phalloplasty.
Dr. Zhao partners closely with plastic surgeon Dr. Rachel Bluebond-Langner to offer comprehensive phalloplasty procedures. Together, they perform both Radial Forearm Flap (RFF) and Anterolateral Thigh (ALT) phalloplasty techniques. Note: The ALT flap is only considered if the patient passes the “pinch test,” which evaluates the thickness of the tissue. If the tissue is too thick, the ALT method may not be appropriate.
Both procedures include nerve hook-up to branches of the dorsal clitoral nerve to provide sensation. Patients seeking penetrative sexual function may opt for the insertion of a penile prosthesis. For those who wish to urinate while standing, a vaginectomy is required as part of the urethral lengthening process to reduce the risk of complications.
Managing Urologic Challenges After Phalloplasty
Extending the urethra in phalloplasty introduces risks of urinary complications. Dr. Zhao is nationally recognized for managing and correcting these issues, which may include:
- Urethral strictures – narrowing of the urethra that impedes urine flow
- Fistulas – abnormal channels forming between the urethra and other tissues
- Urethral diverticula – pouch-like pockets that collect urine and can cause infection
- Urinary retention or leakage – difficulty fully emptying the bladder or persistent dribbling
Dr. Zhao uses a combination of open and robot-assisted techniques to address these complications. Surgical plans are highly personalized based on each patient’s anatomy, previous surgeries, and transition goals. Preoperative assessments such as cystoscopy and imaging are often performed to guide treatment.
Insurance and Payment Options
- Private/Employer Insurance: Accepted
- Medicaid: NY-based Amida Care only; out-of-state Medicaid not accepted
- Medicare and Self-Pay (Cash): Not accepted
Surgical Eligibility Criteria
Dr. Zhao adheres to the standards outlined by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). To be eligible for phalloplasty with Dr. Zhao:
- You must be an adult
- Provide a referral letter from a qualified mental health provider
- Your body mass index (BMI) must be 33 or below
Scheduling a Consultation
Consultations for phalloplasty with Dr. Zhao are coordinated through Dr. Bluebond-Langner’s office. Appointments are held in person at NYU Langone in New York City. For scheduling or inquiries, please call 646-501-4449 or submit a request online.
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