Phoenix's Top Surgery

Hi, my name is Phoenix, and I'm an 18-year-old trans guy living in the UK. In the past year I have come out to all friends and eventually family, making a full social transition. I recently started university, moved out of my (not yet supportive of my transition) family home and now I'm learning to be me - living in total financial independence.

 

For years I have planned - and saved - to undergo top surgery in the not too distant future, in order to further affirm my gender identity and alleviate the majority of my dysphoria. My chest is responsible for a large amount of distress on a 24hr basis, due to my outward appearance not matching who I am on the inside. I bind my chest at every possible opportunity, to a point of discomfort and causing myself actual pain. Binding (for me) is not only unsustainable in the long-term, but detrimental to my overall health as it puts strain on my lungs, ribs and back. As someone prone to respiratory issues and joint pain, this makes the surgery especially important if I wish to preserve my physical and mental wellbeing.

 

My intention is to have a bilateral mastectomy under the surgeon Mr Miles Berry in London, for whose services I will have to pay privately. It is far from a cheap procedure, likely to cost me between £5,000-£8,000 not including travel and recovery expenses. I am determined to have Mr Berry as my surgeon due to his great results on patients; brilliant care before, during and after the surgery; and incredible recovery time, which is essential to me as a university student wishing to continue my studies without taking a year out to recover.

 

I was originally planning on pursuing medical transition (hormones, surgeries) through a company offering affordable care but at a slower rate with longer waiting times. However, the intensity of my dysphoria has increased steadily since originally enquiring for their services, causing a significant decline in my mental health. This has surmounted to the difficult decision to prioritise the speed of my process to get hormones over affordability. Additionally, due to unforeseen circumstances, I'm currently looking for a new place to to move into within the month which has put further strain on my finances. All of this combined means that the money I kept safe for 18 years that was supposed to go towards top surgery is now being spent on other things I need to live. Hence, I'm now asking anyone who is able for your help. If you are unable to donate, which I completely understand, a share would go such a long way in supporting me.

 

I appreciate the time you have taken out of your day to read this. I know this will be a long process, but I'll be sure to provide regular updates. I'm eternally grateful for whatever support you provide.

Thanks so much,

Phoenix Howard x