Author Archives: Align Surgical Associates

For transgender individuals, reconstructive procedures are essential medical interventions that go beyond aesthetics. These surgeries can restore function, correct anatomical concerns, and enhance overall well-being. Because of their complexity, choosing a surgeon with specialized expertise and a deep understanding of both the technical and emotional aspects of care is essential. The Importance of Choosing the …

Transgender people across the United States are facing increasing threats to their rights, safety and identities. These challenges affect real people: our friends, family and neighbors. Everyone deserves dignity, respect and the freedom to live authentically. The good news? There are actionable, meaningful steps we can take to help support the transgender community. Advocate for …

Dr. Dev Gurjala, a board-certified plastic surgeon, hosted an Instagram Live discussion on surgical innovation and single-scar phalloplasty, addressing pre- and post-op concerns and answering frequently asked questions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_z2uuAFcdECaption/subtitle instructions: To turn on subtitles, turn on closed captioning (CC icon), located at the bottom right of the video. To change the language, go to settings …

We know that many of us may be feeling the weight of what’s happening in our country right now, whether it’s the impact of new policies or the challenges posed by recent wildfires in California. It’s completely valid to feel a range of emotions—restlessness, anxiety, fear or sadness — in the face of these difficulties. …

As a gay, bi-racial (Black and Filipino) man, I’ve always felt a deep calling to care for disadvantaged and marginalized patient populations. Initially, I was drawn to transplant surgery—my dream was to become a pediatric transplant surgeon—but during medical school, I became fascinated by plastic and reconstructive surgery. In my third year of Plastic Surgery …

In 2024, we attended numerous conferences and events with some of the leading minds and researchers in gender-affirming surgery. As we close out 2024, here is what we have learned: Dr. Satterwhite I had the honor of being the chair of WPATH conference this year, and in addition to leading this conference, I was also …

Last month, I was honored to give a lecture on gender-affirming surgery to the Internal Medicine Residents at UCSF and San Francisco General Hospital. This opportunity to engage with a group of dedicated medical professionals was both rewarding and invigorating. One aspect of my work that I value deeply is the multidisciplinary nature of gender-affirming …

After surgery, it is normal for patients to experience swelling, bruising, tenderness and discomfort – this is the body’s natural reaction to surgery as it heals. Your surgeon will do everything possible to make sure you are well prepared and cared for post-surgery, including providing prescriptions for pain medications, compression garments, dressing and drains, depending …

We’re back with our next featured patient! This month, we are honoring Align Surgical’s patient, Ronnie Jones. Ronnie received a phalloplasty under Dr. Safir's care, and he couldn’t be happier with his results. Hear Ronnie’s story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_EiiCQUZbM Caption/subtitle instructions: To turn on subtitles, turn on closed captioning (CC icon), located at the bottom right of …

Dr. Loren Schechter, a board-certified plastic surgeon and national and international expert in gender-affirmation surgery, joined Align's Dr. Thomas Satterwhite on Instagram Live to discuss common myths about gender-affirming surgery. Watch this informative discussion by clicking "play" on the video below.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vz7m-Yg4e1cCaption/subtitle instructions: To turn on subtitles, turn on closed captioning (CC icon), located at the bottom …

The story of how and why I became a gender-affirming surgeon is deeply rooted in social justice advocacy, fine art photography, global health, plastic surgery, and the “American Dream.” It surprises many people to learn that I attended Catholic school until I started college. I think this is because parochial schools are not historically known for …

Previously, we discussed How to Get the Most Out of Your Surgical Consultation. But what about the actual surgery? Regardless of the gender-affirming procedure you are undergoing, being physically and mentally ready is crucial. Here’s how to ensure you’re fully prepared for your surgery and ready to begin your transformative journey: Before Your Surgery  Follow …