Plastic Surgeons President Questions Gender Care for Minors

Dr. Steven Williams, president of the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, has publicly stated that he does not offer gender transition surgeries for minors, citing insufficient evidence of the effectiveness of gender-affirming care in adolescents. In interviews, he emphasized the need for caution, highlighting the vulnerability of this population and the lack of long-term data on the consequences of such medical interventions. Williams noted that while adults may benefit from established gender-affirming care, the same cannot be said for minors, who face potential risks associated with irreversible treatments. His position aligns with a broader debate within the medical community about the appropriateness of allowing minors to make decisions regarding life-altering medical procedures. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has also challenged existing guidelines on transgender surgeries for minors, asserting that the evidence supporting these practices is of low quality. This discussion is gaining traction as lawmakers and medical professionals navigate the complexities of gender-affirming care in youth.