Paramedical tattooing offers significant benefits for transgender patients by providing a non-invasive option for enhancing body congruence and self-esteem. For individuals who have undergone gender-affirming surgeries such as genital reconstruction, paramedical tattoos can help restore the appearance of their features, contributing to a more authentic reflection of gender identity. This cosmetic procedure aids in the healing process, offering a sense of closure and empowerment, while also reducing the psychological distress that can result from visible scars or the absence of gender-affirming physical features.

Phalloplasty is a surgical procedure where a penis is constructed using tissue from donor areas like the forearm, thigh, or abdomen. While the goal is a cosmetically appealing result, the new phallus may have a different skin tone than the genitals and may lack visible veins. Over time, the glans (head of the penis) may also flatten.

Tattooing can be used to improve the appearance by adding color to match the surrounding skin and recreate veins. This process typically requires multiple sessions to achieve the desired effect. Additionally, tattooing can cover scars, create the appearance of hair follicles, and ensure the penis blends seamlessly with the body. The overall aim is to provide a unique, customized result based on individual needs and preferences.

Are you a good candidate?

​One factor that may make you a less suitable candidate for tattooing the phallus is if you have unhealed wounds on the phallus. In general, tattooing is not recommended for areas of the skin that are not fully healed, as the tattooing process can interfere with the healing process and may increase the risk of infection.

Another factor that may affect your eligibility for this treatment is the presence of keloid scars. Keloid scars are raised scars that may develop after surgery or other types of injury. They are generally more difficult to treat and may not respond well to tattooing.

If you are currently undergoing ongoing surgery, it is important to let your surgeon know that you are planning to undergo tattoo placement.  Generally, medical tattooing is performed after the phalloplasty is fully healed.  If your phalloplasty is being performed in stages, tattooing should be done after glansplasty.  Tattooing can be done before or after penile implant placement.