Genital electrolysis
Genital electrolysis
Electrolysis can be used to permanently remove hair from any external area of the human body. Your surgeon may request genital hair be removed prior to Gender-Affirmation Surgery. The area to clear should be discussed with your surgeon, as techniques do differ. Please plan well in advance of your procedure. Electrolysis is favoured over laser as it is the only proven method of permanent hair removal.
- Important Note: Hair removal requirements vary significantly depending on your chosen surgical technique. While standard penile inversion requires extensive clearance, alternative methods (such as zero-depth, peritoneal, or intestinal vaginoplasty) may require limited or no hair removal at all. Because permanent clearance can take 12 to 18 months, it is vital to discuss your surgeon's specific template before beginning treatment.
Timescale for genital electrolysis
The complete growth cycle of genital hair is spread over many months. During the growth cycle a significant percentage of genital hair will be in the resting (telogen) phase at the time of the first treatment. Hair which is resting may be visible, but will not be connected to the papilla. Depending upon the modality this hair may not suitable for treatment. We request that you shave the area four days before each treatment which ensures that all visible hair will be in the anagen growth phase.
Plan to complete the treatment at least eight weeks before your date for surgery, which ensures that the hair removal process has been completed and that your skin is in the best possible condition for surgery.
Treatment plan
1st session 1 hour
2nd session 1 hour: 14 to 21 days after the first session
This sequence continues until a first pass clearance has been made. Any changes to the frequency of appointments are then discussed.
(Treatment times are dependent upon your surgeons requirements for the areas to be cleared.)
Preparation for genital electrolysis
Hygiene is of paramount importance and it is recommended that you thoroughly cleanse the area to be treated with an antimicrobial body wash, before and after treatment. We will be pleased to advise on this and other requirements at your consultation.
Shave the area 4 days before treatment and use the antimicrobial body wash before and after shaving. (Shaving ensures that all hairs to be treated will be in the active anagen growth phase)
Be scrupulous about hygiene, as the genital area hosts many forms of bacteria and is particularly prone to potential infection.