Why choose Thailand for transgender surgery?
🌎International reputation. Thailand is one of the most popular medical tourism destinations, welcoming over 2 million visitors annually. In particular, the country is the №1 choice for transgender patients seeking gender-affirming surgery overseas. Thailand is justly considered the sex change capital of the world.
🩺Doctors’ expertise. Thailand's surgeons are among the world's most skilled in sex reassignment surgery (SRS), with years of specialized training and experience. For almost 50 years, Thailand has been driving the progress of SRS. In 1975, Dr. Preecha Tiewtranon performed the country’s first transgender surgery. His work set the foundation for Thailand's expertise in this field.
🏥World-class facilities. In Thailand, transgender surgery clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and follow international standards of care. Leading hospitals, such as the Bangkok National Hospital and the Yanhee International Hospital, offer specialized SRS centers. Chulalongkorn University is at the forefront of medical research and training in transgender care.
💉Innovative surgical techniques. Striving for superior surgical outcomes, Thai doctors have developed some of the latest techniques in sex reassignment, such as non-penile inversion vaginoplasty and peritoneal vaginoplasty.
💰Affordable cost. In Thailand, sex change can cost 3 times cheaper than in countries like the United States. This makes Thailand attractive for transgender people without insurance or those looking for more affordable options.
🌴 Hospitable and serene environment. Thailand is known for its warm hospitality, which extends to its medical community. Moreover, the opportunity to combine gender confirmation surgery with tourism promises a more enjoyable recovery process. Recovery after a Thai sex change operation takes place in peaceful settings. Patients can rest by quiet beaches or in private recovery centers surrounded by nature. These calm environments help with physical healing and emotional well-being.
🏳️⚧️Acceptance of trans people. Thailand has one of the world's most visible transgender communities. The country's open-minded Buddhist culture shows a high level of societal acceptance toward trans people. In Bangkok, encountering kathoeys (transgender women) is a common experience. They are prominent in entertainment and media. Thailand also hosts Miss International Queen, the world’s largest transgender beauty pageant. This cultural aspect translates into compassionate care in Thailand’s gender confirmation clinics.
What is the cost of gender reassignment surgery in Thailand?
In Thailand, the average cost of sex reassignment surgery is $11,000. Male-to-female (MTF) procedures range from $8,000 to $20,000, and female-to-male (FTM) surgeries cost between $12,000 and $22,000. This is 2-4 times lower compared to the costs in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
The table below provides a cost comparison of FTM and MTF surgery costs across several countries:
| Country | MTF Surgery Cost | FTM Surgery Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | $8,000–$20,000 | $12,000–$22,000 |
| United States | $20,000–$50,000 | $25,000–$134,000 |
| United Kingdom | $15,000–$43,000 | $50,000–$88,000 |
| Australia | $20,000–$30,000 | $50,000–$80,000 |
| New Zealand | $54,000 | $219,000 |
New Zealand presents a unique challenge, as the country has been unable to provide sex reassignment surgery domestically. A few publicly funded surgeries have been performed overseas, costing between $53,500 and $219,000 on average. However, at the current rate, it would take 50 years to clear the waitlist for these procedures.
💸 Check out our handy guide to transgender surgery costs.
What is included in the Thai sex change operation package?
Thailand offers all-inclusive sex change surgery packages to ensure a comfortable and smooth experience for transgender patients. A Thai sex change operation package typically includes:
- Fees for the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and operating room usage.
- Post-surgery recovery room charges, including nursing care.
- All necessary medications during your hospital stay.
- Meals throughout the hospital stay.
- Airport-hotel-hospital transfers.
It's common for patients to undergo multiple procedures to maximize the effectiveness of the transition process. For instance, Dr. Pichet Rodchareon at Bangkok Plastic Surgery Clinic, one of the best SRS surgeons in Thailand, offers orchiectomy, tracheal shave, and vaginoplasty as part of the male-to-female (MTF) sex reassignment surgery. Combining these procedures helps patients save money by reducing separate hospital, anesthesia, and operating room fees. It also shortens the overall recovery time, as patients only need to heal once. As a result, the process is more efficient and less stressful.
Where can I get the best and cheapest SRS surgery in Thailand?
Bookimed's research has shown that these Thai clinics offer the best balance of price and quality, with the world’s leading surgeons and comprehensive packages for transgender patients:
Here is a more concise version of the table:
|
Clinic |
Procedures |
Cost |
Included services |
Highlights |
Patient rating |
|
Top surgery, bottom surgery, facial feminization surgery |
Bottom surgery: $9,500–$10,000 Top surgery: $4,500–$5,000 |
• Surgery • 4-star hotel • Anesthesia • Pre-op tests • Medications • Follow-ups • Neck pillow • Transfers • Language assistance |
• Dr. Pichet Rodchareon, Thailand's #1 gender-affirming surgeon • 3,000+ successful procedures |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
|
|
Bottom surgery |
Around $8,500 |
• Surgery 5-night stay in a private room • Medical supplies • Pre-surgery tests • Anesthesia • Post-op care and follow-ups • 2 dilator sizes |
• Treats 5,000+ patients annually • Certified by ISAPS, Royal College of Surgeons Thailand, and JCI • Dr. Kanit Wittayavanichai, 25+ years of experience, professor at Thammasat University |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
|
|
Top surgery, bottom surgery, facial feminization surgery |
Bottom surgery: $6,900–$12,500 Top surgery: $4,500 |
• Physical exam and texts • Anesthesia • VIP nursing • Medications • Follow-ups • English translators |
• ISO and JCI-accredited • Dr. Akkrasash Vongjirad, 25+ years of experience |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Where to get gender reassignment surgery in Thailand?
In Thailand, the most popular locations for gender reassignment surgeries are Bangkok and Phuket.
|
Location |
Pros |
Cons |
Clinics |
|
• Country’s most esteemed SRS surgeons with 30+ years of experience and innovative practices. • One of the 10 most visited cities in the world and a leading medical tourism destination. Offers high-quality medical care alongside attractions like street food, markets, and temples. • Bangkok clinics often provide holistic care, including mental health support and post-operative care. |
• Bangkok's busy streets and fast-paced lifestyle might be overwhelming for some. |
|
|
|
• Accredited clinics with skilled surgeons adhering to international healthcare standards. • Picturesque beaches, clear waters, and a tranquil setting ideal for recovery. |
• Fewer specialized gender reassignment surgeons compared to Bangkok. • Costs are approximately 10%–15% higher than in Bangkok due to Phuket’s resort status and limited competition. |
How to find the best SRS surgeons in Thailand?
Research medical background
Look for surgeons with a medical degree from reputable institutions and additional specialized training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. A strong academic background is a solid foundation. Graduates from Chulalongkorn University are especially skilled since this is the first and best Thai institution to teach sex reassignment surgery systematically.
Confirm board certification
Look for an SRS doctor certified by the Thai Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met specific standards of education, knowledge, and expertise in plastic surgery.
Check membership in professional organizations
Membership in reputable professional organizations signals a commitment to excellence, ethical standards, and continued education. Keep an eye out for SRS surgeons who are active members in the following organizations:
- The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS);
- The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH);
- Thai Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons;
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Look for extensive experience in gender-affirming surgeries
Consider surgeons with extensive experience, specifically in gender-affirming surgeries. Those who specialize in SRS have more refined skills and a better understanding of the nuances involved in these complex procedures.
Review before-and-after photos
Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous gender confirmation procedures the surgeon has performed. This can give you an idea of their skill level and the results you might expect.
Read patient reviews
Look for feedback from former patients to gain insights into their experiences. Patient reviews can provide valuable information about the surgeon’s bedside manner, the supportiveness of their staff, and overall patient satisfaction.
Consider hospital affiliations
The best surgeons are affiliated with reputable hospitals and clinics known for high standards of care. Research the facilities where the surgeon operates to ensure they have modern medical equipment and a supportive environment.
For convenience, check Bookimed’s list of accredited partner clinics specializing in sex reassignment surgery.
Assess your comfort and trust
Choose a surgeon you feel comfortable with and trust to perform your SRS surgery. A surgeon must be communicative, empathic, and respectful of your gender identity. An in-person or virtual consultation will allow you to ask questions, discuss your goals and concerns, and gauge whether the surgeon fits your needs.
Inquire about follow-up care
Find out about the surgeon's follow-up care plan after the gender-affirming surgery. It's important to have access to post-operative support and monitoring to ensure a smooth recovery process and address any complications that may arise.
What types of gender reassignment surgery do gender surgeons offer in Thailand?
Bookimed partners with the 10 best gender reassignment surgery clinics in Thailand. They offer an extensive range of surgeries to meet the diverse needs of transgender patients. Although Thailand is especially famous for its male-to-female transformations, the country’s experienced surgeons cater to the needs of transgender men and nonbinary people as well.
Top Surgery
- For male-to-female (MTF) transitions, a surgeon performs breast augmentation to create a more traditionally feminine chest.
- For female-to-male (FTM) transitions, Thai surgeons perform mastectomy, or the removal of breast tissue, to achieve a more masculine chest appearance.
💡 Learn more about top surgery.
Bottom Surgery
Male-to-female (MTF) surgeries:
- Vaginoplasty — creation of a vagina and vulva, often through penile inversion.
- Vulvoplasty (or zero-depth vaginoplasty) — creation of a vulva (external genitalia) without a vaginal canal.
- Orchiectomy — removal of the testicles.
Female-to-male (FTM) surgeries:
- Phalloplasty — сonstruction of a penis using tissue from other parts of the body.
- Metoidioplasty — сreating a penis from clitoral tissue.
- Hysterectomy — removal of the uterus.
- Oophorectomy — removal of the ovaries.
Cosmetic Surgery/Maxillofacial Surgery
Gender reassignment surgery in Thailand often involves modifying facial features to make them more feminine or masculine. Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is especially popular. SRS surgeons can reshape the jaw, chin, forehead, and nose, as well as perform a tracheal shave to make the Adam’s apple less prominent.
🔍 Read up on what to expect from facial feminization and masculinization surgeries.
Voice Surgery
Voice feminization/masculinization surgery tailors the pitch and resonance of the voice to be more congruent with the patient’s gender. This surgery can be particularly impactful, often supplemented by voice therapy for lasting results.
🏳️⚧️ Find out more about SRS options, preparation, and recovery by delving into our Sex Reassignment Surgery Guide.
What steps does SRS surgery in Thailand involve?
- Initial consultation. Often begins with an online consultation, followed by an in-person meeting with a doctor once you arrive in Thailand. This is where you'll discuss your goals, expectations, and any medical considerations with your surgeon.
- Pre-surgical assessments. Before surgery, doctors conduct comprehensive medical evaluations to confirm your suitability for surgery.
- Surgery. The length of the procedure varies depending on the type of gender confirmation surgery. For instance, an orchiectomy might take 1-2 hours, while more complex surgeries like vaginoplasty could last 3-6 hours.
- Hospital stay. After the operation, your surgeons will closely monitor your condition in the hospital for 3-7 days.
- Recovery in Thailand. After discharge, you'll need to remain in Thailand for post-operative care and initial recovery. Clinics often recommend staying close by for 2-3 weeks.
- Complete recovery. Full recovery can take several months to a year, with the most significant recovery milestones occurring in the first 6 weeks post-surgery.
- Long-term care. For comprehensive surgeries like vaginoplasty and phalloplasty, ongoing care may include hormonal treatments, additional cosmetic procedures, or revision surgeries, if necessary.
What are the requirements for gender reassignment surgery in Thailand?
Before you begin your gender reassignment surgery journey in Thailand, there are a few key things you'll need to prepare to ensure you’re ready for this life-changing procedure. When assessing the eligibility for surgery, many reputable sex change clinics in Thailand adhere to the guidelines provided by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH). WPATH guidelines are considered the international standard for transgender healthcare, including surgical procedures.
Although requirements are not universal and can differ from one clinic to another, SRS surgeons usually require the following:
- A letter from a psychologist confirming you’re mentally prepared for the surgical gender transition. This is needed to ensure that the procedure will alleviate your gender dysphoria and improve overall well-being.
- While not a strict requirement, a reference letter from someone who knows you well (like a friend, family member, or employer) can be helpful.
- Proof that you have been undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for at least 1 year.
- Lab tests to assess fitness for surgery:
- chest X-ray;
- electrocardiogram EKG;
- blood tests.
How old do you have to be to get gender reassignment surgery in Thailand?
In Thailand, transgender surgery usually requires the patient to be at least 18 years old. This is the legal age for giving consent to medical procedures. However, some clinics might consider younger patients with parental consent and a comprehensive psychological evaluation.
How to get the best gender reassignment surgery in Thailand with Bookimed?
💚Submit a request. Fill out a request on the Bookimed website detailing your gender surgery needs and preferences.
💚Consult with a medical coordinator. Your Bookimed manager will promptly get in touch to discuss your needs, questions, and options to ensure you make a well-informed choice.
💚Pick a clinic. With help from your Bookimed manager, pick the best clinic in Thailand for gender reassignment surgery. We’ll ensure it fits your needs and wants.
💚Get a free quote. After selecting a clinic, you'll receive a personalized cost estimate for your surgery.
💚Plan your journey. Bookimed will help organize your trip to the chosen clinic, guaranteeing a seamless and worry-free process.
Resources
- The Guardian. (2023). ‘They just go to Thailand’: the long and costly wait for gender-affirming surgery in Australia. https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/apr/23/they-just-go-to-thailand-the-long-and-costly-wait-for-gender-affirming-surgery-in-australia
- TransHub. Genital Reconfiguration Surgery. https://www.transhub.org.au/grs
- Healthdirect Australia. (2024). Gender affirming surgery. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/gender-affirming-surgery
- The Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics. (2022). Utilization and Costs of Gender-Affirming Care in a Commercially Insured Transgender Population. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9679590/