Plastic surgeons group recommends against gender surgeries on minors due to low evidence of benefit

World
Vatican City
Gender dysphoria
Plastic surgery
transgender
gender-dysphoria
catholic-medical-association
catholic-news
Author

Amira Abuzeid

Published

February 5, 2026

Summary

In an official stance breaking from major U.S. medical organizations, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) issued a position statement recommending that plastic surgeons should delay surgeries related to gender dysphoria in children until at least age 19. The ASPS, representing over 11,000 plastic surgeons, stated there is insufficient evidence to support such procedures for minors and potential irreversible harm exists. The recommendations are based on reviews of the UK’s Cass Review and a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report. Notably, this position diverges from all major medical associations in the U.S., including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. The ASPS emphasizes that its recommendation is not a clinical practice guideline but encourages surgeons to use their judgment when considering long-term welfare of patients. Catholic Medical Association board member Alfonso Oliva supports the stance, recommending further delaying surgeries until age 25.

Key Topics

Vatican City, Gender dysphoria, Plastic surgery


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