Metoidioplasty Surgery » Surgeons
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Dr. Nicholas Bene
Director of Gender Affirmation Surgery, Stanford Medicine
Dr. Nicholas Bene, MD is a fellowship-trained Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and Director of Gender Affirmation Surgery at Stanford Medicine. He provides the full range of gender-affirming procedures, including masculinizing genital surgeries such as metoidioplasty.
Dr. Bene trained in Advanced Gender Affirmation Surgery at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), one of the nation’s highest-volume and most established centers for gender surgery. His fellowship training at OHSU included advanced application of both plastic and urologic techniques.
Dr. Bene's full credentials and surgical offerings are available on his TransHealthCare.org surgeon profile.
Approach to Metoidioplasty
Metoidioplasty is a surgery that reshapes existing genital tissue to create a small phallus with natural appearance and full sensation. During this procedure, the clitoral tissue is released from its attachments, allowing it to project forward in a more masculine position. By using native genital anatomy—including tissue that shares embryologic origins with the penis—erogenous sensitivity can be retained.
Depending on anatomy and preference, some patients may also choose to extend the urethra through the new phallus, which can allow for standing urination. When urethral lengthening is performed, temporary urinary drainage (via catheter) is needed to allow proper healing. Outer labial tissue may be reshaped to create a natural-appearing scrotum using a technique commonly referred to as V-Y scrotoplasty. Testicular implants can later be placed in a follow-up surgery, once tissues have fully healed.
Dr. Bene discusses these options carefully during consultation, ensuring each decision is guided by safety and informed choice. Throughout recovery, Dr. Bene and his multidisciplinary Stanford team coordinate postoperative follow-up, pelvic floor therapy, and urological care, if needed.
Consultations and Scheduling
- Consultation wait time: 1–2 months
- Surgery scheduling: 3–6 months
Insurance and Requirements
Dr. Bene accepts most major insurance providers, including UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Aetna, Medicare, and Medicaid.
Surgery requirements:
- Minimum age: 19 years
- Letter of support from a qualified mental health provider
- No required cessation of hormones before surgery
- Smoking/vaping cessation at least 2 months before and after surgery
- BMI guideline: <35