A prominent plastic surgeon, Dr. Steven Williams, has cautioned against providing gender-affirming care to minors, citing a lack of long-term evidence and potential risks. He emphasizes the need to prioritize safety and evidence-based medicine in making treatment decisions.
In a recent interview on "Fox & Friends First," Dr. Steven Williams, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, voiced his concerns about the administration of gender-affirming care to minors. He emphasized the importance of considering both the short-term and long-term effects of such procedures on young patients.
Top Surgeon Warns of Risks Associated with Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
Dr. Williams stressed that there is a limited body of evidence supporting the long-term safety and efficacy of gender-affirming care for minors. He pointed out that these techniques are still in development and that more research is needed to fully understand their potential risks.
"I think there are a lot of things to consider," said Dr. Williams. "One is safety. These techniques are still in development and this is a new field for adolescents." He cautioned that the long-term psychiatric and physical effects of gender-affirming care are not yet fully understood.
Top Surgeon Warns of Risks Associated with Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
Dr. Williams emphasized that adolescents are a particularly vulnerable population and that great care must be taken when making decisions about their medical care. He believes that providing gender-affirming care to minors should be approached with caution and only after thorough consideration of the potential risks and benefits.
The plastic surgeon also addressed the issue of reversing gender-affirming care procedures. While some treatments may be less complex to reverse, such as top surgery, he cautioned that all surgical procedures can leave scars that may need to be addressed.
Top Surgeon Warns of Risks Associated with Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
Dr. Williams' concerns align with a growing number of voices expressing reservations about gender-affirming care for minors. Some detransitioners, such as Chloe Cole and Prisha Mosley, have shared their experiences of regret and warned others about the potential consequences of transitioning.
In response to concerns raised by medical professionals, the UK's formerly conservative government imposed regulations to restrict the prescribing and supply of puberty blockers in the nation. The government cited concerns about the lack of long-term evidence and the potential risks associated with their use in minors.
Top Surgeon Warns of Risks Associated with Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
Dr. Williams emphasized that the well-being of patients should be the paramount consideration in making decisions about gender-affirming care. He called for a balanced approach that weighs the potential risks and uncertainties against the potential benefits of such procedures.
The surgeon concluded by reiterating the need for further research to fully understand the long-term effects of gender-affirming care for minors. He urged the medical community to approach this issue with caution and to prioritize the safety and well-being of young patients.
