Transition timelines

[AshleyT]

Hi all,

Assuming no last-minute problems, I should be starting hormones within two weeks. Now that the day is nearly here (and not soon enough!) it has started me thinking about timelines for things like FFS and SRS.

For the facial surgery, at the very least I know I will need to get my nose done (genetically predisposed to large/bulbous - thanks dad) and while I know I need to wait to see what effect hormones might have in general before deciding what should be done for full FFS I am really struggling with patience - particularly for the nose. I keep thinking that if I get my nose corrected it will help considerably with passing - as it stands, I'm kinda split on going full time with no surgery as I feel my nose is a real giveaway.

How long is it typical/did you wait after starting hormones before opting for FFS? Is it just silly to get the nose done first and then look at further FFS later?

Same question of timing goes for SRS - how long is it typical to wait/how soon is it realistic to have it done?

My current aim is to go full time at the start of next year. I am in the UK and following a private route as the NHS pathway was just too long. Any input most welcome 

[KristinaM]

I'm going to assume that your doctor is going to put you on a low dose of hormones to start with and then ramp it up over the coming months.  That seems to be typical anyways.  And it usually takes several month before any really noticeable physical changes occur.  Some have seen faster results, others slower even.

My point is, don't go rushing into any sort of surgery until you see how things go, not just from physical changes, but also mental ones.  Hormones are powerful and can and will likely alter your perception on many things, including yourself.  I am much more accepting of many of my physical traits now than I was 2 months ago.

Like you though, I still want a nose job and probably some forehead contouring and a brow lift.  I could probably live with the rest.  But it's not a priority and I don't think it should be for you either right now.  Give the hormones time to work their magic and re-address this surgery thing later.  You definitely shouldn't rush into it either way.