San Francisco
2299 Post St. Suite 207
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 530-5335
Los Angeles
1317 5th St #300
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 751-5886
At Align Surgical Associates, your care starts with a conversation. We take the time to understand what matters most to you, explain your options clearly, and support you through consultation, planning, surgery, and follow-up.
Gender-affirming surgery is deeply personal, and it often involves more than medical decisions alone. Our role is to help you make sense of the details, prepare for each step, and advocate for your needs throughout the process. Learn more about what to expect below.
Your Consultation
The first step is meeting with one of our expert providers for a consultation. These appointments may take place at our offices in San Francisco or Los Angeles, over the phone, or via secure video conference, depending on the procedure and what works best for you.
During your consultation, we may discuss:
- The procedures you are considering
- Your medical history and current care
- The risks and benefits of each procedure
- Recovery, downtime, and expected outcomes
- Timing, next steps, and what may be required before surgery
We take the time to understand your history, priorities, questions, and goals so our recommendations are grounded in a fuller picture of what matters to you.
Planning and Requirements
After your consultation, the next steps depend on the procedure you are considering, your medical history, and whether you plan to use insurance. Some patients are ready to move directly into surgical planning, while others may need additional documentation or medical clearance first.
Before surgery, patients may need:
- Letters of support or referrals
- Documentation from a hormone prescriber, when relevant
- Medical clearances
- Labs or other studies
- Insurance authorization
If you are using insurance, our team will guide you through the process and let you know what you need to move forward. If you are paying out of pocket, we will review your financing options to help you manage the cost of your surgery over time.
Some surgeons "offer" gender-affirming surgery among many other services. For Align, it's the center of our life's work. Our 6 board-certified surgeons have committed themselves wholly to gender-affirming care and research. This means we aren't just helping patients reach their embodiment goals; we are helping to make their care better—better understood, better supported, and performed in the best way possible. Meet the specialists behind the transformations.
Preparing for Surgery
Once your surgery is scheduled, our team will help you prepare for the practical details leading up to your procedure. All patients receive a comprehensive surgical instruction packet before surgery, including preoperative and postoperative instructions and guidance on what to plan for in the weeks ahead.
Preparing for surgery may include planning for:
- Transportation to and from surgery
- Time away from work or other responsibilities
- Prescriptions and recovery supplies
- Support during the early recovery period
If you are traveling for surgery, we can help connect you with local resources to make your planning easier.
Continuity of Care
Your care is not limited to your consultation or the day of surgery. Our surgeons and physician associates are involved throughout the entire process, helping you move confidently from planning to surgery to recovery.
Some procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, while others may involve a hospital stay, depending on the surgery and treatment plan. In either setting, you’ll continue to receive expert guidance, meticulous follow-up, and active support from your care team.
Travel planning can involve a lot of moving parts, especially when you're coordinating around surgery. If you're coming to Align from outside the Bay Area or Los Angeles, we have resources specifically for you.
After-Hours Surgical Support
Our clinical team is available after hours for urgent medical concerns. Please review our guidelines before calling so we can prioritize issues that need immediate attention. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
How We Work FAQ
What happens during my consultation?
Your consultation involves a detailed conversation with one of our expert providers about your goals, treatment options, medical history, and next steps.
Can I meet with my surgeon virtually?
Yes. In addition to our in-person consultations in San Francisco and Los Angeles, we offer virtual consultations via secure video conference or by phone.
What documentation might I need before surgery?
Depending on your procedure and your medical history, you may need certain clinical requirements, such as letters of support from your mental health provider, documentation from a hormone prescriber, medical clearances, lab work, or imaging.
If you plan to use insurance, additional requirements may include a referral, prior authorization, and submission of supporting documentation.
Take the Next Step
When you’re ready, we’re here to help. Request an in-person or virtual consultation using the online form or call Align Surgical Associates to get started. We are proud to provide gender-affirming surgery for San Francisco and Los Angeles patients, as well as those traveling from outside California.
San Francisco Office: (415) 530-5335
Los Angeles Office: (310) 751-5886