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Simple Release Metoidioplasty

Simple Release Metoidioplasty, or Simple Meta, is the least invasive form of metoidioplasty, focused primarily on clitoral release without urethral lengthening, vaginectomy, or scrotoplasty. It is designed for transgender men and nonbinary individuals who wish to expose more of the hormonally enlarged clitoris to achieve a more phallic appearance, while preserving full sensation and minimizing surgical risk.

This approach is often chosen by those who don’t need to urinate while standing, and who prefer to avoid more complex procedures. It may also be used as a first step in a staged surgical plan.

How It Works

Metiodioplasty
Anatomy of the Clitoris

During surgery, the suspensory ligaments of the clitoris are released, allowing more of the shaft to project outward.

The clitoral hood and surrounding tissues are reshaped or removed to reveal more of the glans and shaft. No changes are made to the urethra, vaginal canal, or labia. The anatomy remains otherwise intact, with the clitoris now appearing more prominent externally.

The procedure is relatively quick and has a short recovery time.

Expected Results

The result of a Simple Release procedure is a more visible, prominent phallus created by exposing and extending the hormonally enlarged clitoris. Patients typically retain full erogenous sensation and can achieve spontaneous erections and orgasm, as the nerves are left fully intact. While the phallus is typically too small for penetrative intercourse, many patients report increased sexual satisfaction and confidence with their genital appearance.

Risks and Complications

This is a low-risk procedure, but some potential complications include:

  • Minor bleeding or swelling
  • Scar tissue formation
  • Incomplete release of ligaments (leading to limited projection)
  • Dissatisfaction with aesthetic result

Compared to more complex procedures, the risk of major complications is very low.

Complementary Procedures

While Simple Release can be performed as a standalone surgery, it may also serve as the first stage of a multi-step transition plan. Additional procedures that may follow include:

Who Is This Procedure Right For?

Simple Release Metoidioplasty is a good choice for individuals seeking a low-risk, sensation-preserving option for genital masculinization. It’s particularly well suited to those who want to enhance the appearance of the clitoris without undergoing vaginectomy, urethral work, or the placement of implants. This technique is often chosen by patients who aren’t concerned with standing urination, and who prefer to maintain the vaginal canal for sexual or other personal reasons. It may also appeal to people who wish to begin with a conservative surgical step before committing to more extensive procedures in the future. Good candidates generally have noticeable clitoral growth from testosterone therapy, have low body fat, especially in the mons pubis area, and realistic expectations about what this surgery can achieve.

Recovery

Recovery from Simple Release is typically short and straightforward. Most patients are able to return home the same day of surgery, with swelling and soreness resolving within a few days. There is no catheter required, and most people can resume light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Sexual activity is usually safe after 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the pace of individual healing. Because no grafts, implants, or urethral work are involved, the overall healing time is much shorter and easier than with more complex genital surgeries.

Surgeons

This procedure may be offered by surgeons who specialize in masculinizing genital surgery, though it is less commonly listed as a standalone service. Simple Release Metoidioplasty is performed by both urologists and plastic surgeons.

Note: Always ask the surgeon how they define the extent of ligament release.

Last updated: 05/29/25


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