Understanding the Link Between SRS and Gender Dysphoria
Sex reassignment surgery (SRS) is a major medical procedure that alters the physical characteristics of one’s sex, and is typically performed for transgender individuals who experience gender dysphoria. According to WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health), a formal diagnosis of gender dysphoria is one of the key criteria to ensure that patients are making informed, supported decisions about their transition.
At APS Gender Care in Bangkok, Thailand, we follow international standards and local regulations to provide the safest and most affirming experience for all patients.
Why You Need a Gender Dysphoria Diagnosis Before SRS
A gender dysphoria diagnosis:
- Confirms that you are mentally and emotionally prepared for SRS
- Ensures that the procedure is medically indicated
- Protects both the patient and medical provider from legal and ethical complications
- Helps build a foundation for post-op emotional and social support
This is why APS requires two independent evaluations — not to gatekeep, but to protect your journey and empower you with confidence.
Most reputable SRS providers, including APS Gender Care in Thailand, require a diagnosis of gender dysphoria before performing sex reassignment surgery. This ensures the surgery is in alignment with your mental and emotional well-being. You will need two independent psychiatric evaluations — one from your home country, and one completed onsite in Thailand (typically done in just a few hours).
How Many Evaluations Are Required?
1. One Evaluation from Your Home Country
You’ll need to obtain a psychiatric or psychological evaluation report from a licensed mental health provider in your home country. This should include:
- Confirmation of gender dysphoria diagnosis
- Description of your gender history
- Statement of readiness for gender-affirming surgery
- Credentials and license number of the evaluating therapist or psychiatrist
Tip: Search locally for gender-affirming therapists, trans health clinics, or LGBTQ+ mental health providers who are experienced in writing such letters.
2. One Evaluation in Thailand (Provided by APS)
When you arrive in Bangkok, our coordination team will schedule a local psychiatric evaluation — typically completed in 2–3 hours at a trusted partner clinic. This is a standard part of our pre-surgery protocol and ensures compliance with Thai medical regulations.
What If I Haven’t Started Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
While SRS hormone replacement therapy is often linked, HRT is not always a strict requirement before undergoing SRS. However, many patients begin HRT prior to surgery to help align physical traits with gender identity, and some doctors do recommend being on hormones for a minimum of 6–12 months for both medical and emotional preparation.
If you have not started HRT, we encourage discussing this during your online consultation — our team will provide honest, personalized guidance depending on your goals and readiness.
How APS Gender Care Helps You Prepare
We understand that navigating documentation, evaluations, and HRT timelines can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer full support, including:
- Pre-surgery checklists
- Templates for psychological letters
- Guidance on how to speak with your home provider
- Onsite coordination of the Thai psychiatric evaluation
- Optional personal liaison services for international patients
FAQs
One must be completed before arrival. The second will be arranged in Bangkok by APS.
Not always — it depends on your health, anatomy, and surgical goals. Please discuss during your consultation.
APS can help you find suggested resources or templates to share with local professionals.
The evaluation must come from a licensed psychiatrist, psychologist, or mental health professional with gender-related experience.
Ready to Begin?
APS Gender Care is here to support you every step of the way — from documentation to surgery and recovery. If you’re planning your gender-affirming journey and want to explore your options, we are here for you.
Contact our team
Considering your transition journey abroad? Discover why international patients choose APS Gender Care as their trusted partner in SRS. We specialize in all three techniques—skin graft, PPV, and colon vaginoplasty—helping patients achieve results that align with their needs.
