Life After SRS: What Really Happens?
For many transgender women, undergoing sex reassignment surgery (SRS) marks one of the most powerful turning points in their lives. At APS Gender Care, patients often arrive with deeply personal questions about what the post-op journey will feel like—both physically and emotionally. This blog is here to walk you through the real answers to the most common post-op concerns, from the return of sensation to the possibility of orgasm, and even questions around phantom feelings or hygiene.
Whether you’re preparing for surgery or still in the research phase, this article will help set realistic and reassuring expectations for your SRS recovery.
Will I Still Feel Like I Have a Penis After SRS?
This is one of the most honest and vulnerable questions we receive. The short answer is no — most patients do not experience this.
While some may have heard of phantom pain syndrome, it’s important to understand that this condition is almost exclusively associated with the amputation of limbs. It is not common in transgender patients undergoing SRS. At APS, we’ve never had a patient report ongoing “phantom penis” sensations after recovery.
In fact, many patients describe feeling immense gender euphoria after surgery. The alignment between their body and gender identity often leads to a sense of peace, confidence, and relief. Gender dysphoria is greatly reduced—or in many cases, disappears entirely.
Key Takeaways: SRS Recovery at APS
- Phantom penis sensations are not commonly reported.
- Sensation returns gradually, often starting at 3–6 weeks post-op.
- Orgasms are possible and often more emotionally fulfilling than before.
- The neovagina does not erect, but arousal functions are preserved.
- Proper hygiene ensures minimal odor even with colon-based techniques.
- Our APS care team is here every step of the way to guide and support your recovery.
When Will I Regain Feeling in My Neovagina?
The return of sensation after SRS is gradual, and the timeline varies from person to person. However, there are general milestones:
- Weeks 1–2: Numbness is common due to healing tissues and post-op swelling.
- Weeks 3–6: Tingling or warmth may begin to return as nerves reconnect.
- Months 3–6: Most patients regain full sensitivity around the outer vulva and clitoris.
- Months 6–12: Many report a return to full tactile sensation and even erotic sensitivity.
Patients who undergo colon vaginoplasty often regain internal sensation slightly faster than those with skin graft methods due to the innervation of the sigmoid colon. Regardless of the technique, patience and self-care are key during this phase of recovery.
Can I Orgasm After SRS?
Yes — the vast majority of our patients are capable of achieving orgasm after SRS. In fact, many describe their first post-op orgasm as profoundly affirming.
However, it’s important to set realistic expectations:
- The way you experience pleasure may change.
- Many patients no longer experience orgasm via “genital-centric” stimulation alone.
- Instead, they describe full-body pleasure, deeper emotional connection, or orgasms triggered by a different set of cues — including internal neovaginal stimulation, sensual pressure, or partnered intimacy.
It’s also very common for patients to take several months to discover what works for them in terms of stimulation, rhythm, and mood. APS’s post-op care team is happy to discuss this topic in a safe and private setting during your follow-ups.
Does the Neovagina “Erect” Like a Penis?
No, the neovagina does not become erect like a penis. However, during sexual arousal, patients often report increased warmth, blood flow, and sensitivity in the vulva and neoclitoris. These responses are natural and part of a healthy healing process.
While the physical mechanics differ from a pre-op erection, the experience of arousal and pleasure remains very much intact—and often more affirming.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Orgasm After SRS?
There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but here are some starting points based on patient feedback:
- Start with external stimulation of the clitoral hood.
- Explore internal neovaginal pressure using a small, safe sex toy when you’re ready (usually after 3–4 months).
- Focus on relaxation and mood. Many patients report that emotional intimacy plays a greater role post-op.
- Be patient. Re-learning your body is a beautiful part of the healing journey.
We also recommend dilator therapy not just for vaginal depth maintenance, but also as a tool to get comfortable with internal sensations.
Does the Colon Vaginoplasty Neovagina Smell?
It’s a fair question — and the answer is: not if proper hygiene is maintained.
Because the sigmoid colon is naturally self-lubricating and produces mucus, some odor is expected, especially in the first few months. But with proper rinsing, daily hygiene routines, and regular check-ups, this odor is usually mild or nonexistent.
At APS, our post-op nursing team will guide you through a clear hygiene protocol to ensure you feel clean, confident, and healthy at every stage of your SRS recovery.
SRS isn’t just about physical change — it’s about finding peace in your own body. At APS Gender Care in Bangkok, we understand how sensitive and deeply personal this journey is. We’re honored to care for our patients not only during surgery, but long after — helping them rediscover sensation, sexuality, and joy on their own terms.
If you’re ready to learn more, schedule a private online consultation with Dr. Ae and our team. We’re here to help you feel fully, beautifully you.
Want to speak to our team about your SRS options and recovery process?
Fill out our consultation form or reach out to us on Instagram @apsgendercare.
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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.
