Dr. Sarah Eidelson
FTM Surgery Expertise in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Sarah Eidelson, MD, is a highly skilled and compassionate surgeon, specializing in gender-affirming procedures for transmasculine and nonbinary individuals. With over 11 years of advanced surgical training, Dr. Eidelson is one of the few fellowship-trained gender-affirming surgeons in the United States. She brings her expertise to a wide range of FTM (female-to-male) surgeries, including top surgery, body masculinization, and facial masculinization, as well as other tailored procedures to support each patient’s journey to self-affirmation. Her patient-centered approach is rooted in a commitment to achieving natural-looking, functional outcomes that align with the individual’s vision for their body.
Education and Training
- Medical Degree: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 2014
- General Surgery Residency: 7 years at Jackson Memorial Hospital, one of the largest public hospitals in the United States
- Extensive experience in trauma, oncology, burn care, and more
- Worked at Ryder Trauma Center, a leading trauma and burn unit
- Plastic Surgery Residency: University of Southern California (independent track)
- Specialized in microsurgery, craniofacial, hand, and reconstructive surgery
- Training with top cosmetic surgeons in Beverly Hills
- Fellowship in Gender-Affirming Surgery: GRS Montréal with Dr. Pierre Brassard
- Completed over 500 gender-affirming surgeries
FTM Surgery Procedures Offered by Dr. Eidelson
Dr. Eidelson offers a variety of procedures designed to support transmasculine and nonbinary patients in their transition. These surgeries aim to masculinize physical features, enhancing confidence and comfort in one's body. Below is a detailed overview of the FTM surgeries available under Dr. Eidelson’s care:
1. Top Surgery (Chest Masculinization)
Top surgery is one of the most common procedures for transmasculine individuals. Dr. Eidelson offers several techniques, ensuring that each patient’s needs and goals are met:
- Double Incision: This procedure involves two horizontal incisions along the chest to remove breast tissue and create a masculine chest contour. It is often ideal for those with a larger chest.
- Keyhole: This technique is suitable for individuals with smaller chests and minimal breast tissue. The incision is made around the areola, allowing for minimal scarring and a natural chest appearance.
- Peri-Areolar: Similar to the keyhole approach, but with a slightly larger incision around the areola, this method is used for patients with moderate breast tissue.
- Inverted-T: A more complex technique used for patients with larger breasts, involving an incision around the areola and a vertical line extending downward.
- Buttonhole: An advanced method where a small incision is made just under the nipple, leaving a more discreet scar and often used for smaller chest sizes.
2. Body Masculinization
For patients looking to enhance their overall masculine physique, Dr. Eidelson offers body contouring procedures designed to create a more defined, masculine silhouette. These procedures may involve liposuction, fat grafting, or abdominal sculpting to accentuate the chest, waist, and hips.
3. Facial Masculinization
Facial masculinization surgery (FMS) aims to alter facial features to better align with a patient’s gender identity. Dr. Eidelson provides procedures like jawline enhancement, chin augmentation, and rhinoplasty to achieve a more angular, masculine appearance. These surgeries can be customized to each individual’s facial structure and desired outcome.
4. Vaginectomy
A vaginectomy is the removal of the vaginal canal, often part of a more extensive gender-affirming surgery.
5. Mons Resection
Mons resection is a procedure where excess tissue in the pubic area is removed to create a more masculine contour. This is often performed alongside vaginectomy or other bottom surgeries for a more cohesive aesthetic.
6. Customized Masculinizing Procedures
Dr. Eidelson also offers other tailored procedures to address specific concerns and goals. These might include surgery to address excess skin, scarring, or contouring in various areas of the body to enhance a masculine appearance.
Surgery Requirements
Dr. Eidelson follows the WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) guidelines for gender-affirming surgery. Patients must provide a letter of recommendation from a qualified mental health provider, and in some cases, insurance companies may require additional documentation. The minimum age for surgery is 19 years.
Financing and Insurance
Dr. Eidelson’s practice accepts a range of payment methods, including cash, credit card, check, medical financing (e.g., CareCredit), and insurance. Commonly accepted insurers include Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and CareFirst Community Plan.
Consultations with Dr. Eidelson
Dr. Eidelson offers consultations in-person, via phone, or virtually. Most consultations are covered by insurance copays. Approximately 75-95% of her patients are transgender, and her practice is dedicated to providing inclusive, sensitive care. Dr. Eidelson's team has had sensitivity training to ensure a welcoming environment for all patients. For those traveling from out of town, her office can provide recommendations for local accommodations and resources to ensure a comfortable stay.
With her advanced training and vast experience, Dr. Sarah Eidelson stands out as a highly regarded surgeon for gender-affirming procedures in Washington, D.C. Her expertise in FTM surgeries, from top surgery to body and facial masculinization, ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care, tailored to their unique needs and goals. Her dedication to the trans community, combined with her compassionate approach, makes her a trusted choice for those seeking to affirm their gender identity through surgery.
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