Hi All, I had my consult with Tina Rashid Wednesday gone. Managed a down and back from Scotland as a day trip. Thought I would write up my experience in case it assisted others.

The consult was at the Parkside clinic in Putney, access is easy from Heathrow to the wrong side of Putney Bridge via the District and Piccadilly line in about an hour. On the way there I made the mistake of using bus 220 which took an hour to do about 6 miles (lesson learnt!). If you have time to kill then the monster shopping centre that is Westfield London is 'on the way!'

Its a 15 min walk from Putney Bridge to the consult which is at Parkside's Putney building rather than the one at Wimbledon. Once there, ignore the reception downstairs and head up to the 4th floor and take a seat as per the sign on the desk (I stood there like a lemon!!)

I was scheduled for 15:00 and was seen at about 15:20, so I would advise not cutting it too neat for time if you have a scheduled return.

The discussion began re what I was seeking surgery wise, and then some notes were taken down:

• Age
• Date of transition
• Medical history
• Family medical history
• Whether I had any previous surgeries
• Dose and method of hormones and blockers

She used a cut-away model of the area on her desk to illustrate where the various bits go, and then went on to explain the risks. I was most concerned about the potential of a fustilla which is one of the more serious risks. She commented that in 400 operations she had had one, but the risk was stated at 1%. Some of the other risks were higher, including a 15% chance of no sensation afterwards. Blocking of the Urethra, pee coming out at wrong angles, and tissue (including the clitoris) dying due to inadequate blood supply were among the other risks.

Then came the examination, initially behind the curtain with the nurse, Miss Rashid then entered and ascertained that there was sufficient donor skin, and that I would need only minimal hair removal (I have some hairs on the underside of the shaft). Thus far I have only had 4 hours of electro.

I dressed and sat down again, she asked a few questions re expectations - eg trying to make sure patients had realistic expectations.

Next was Q&A

• I asked about the pre-op appointment which is usually 6 weeks before the operation, and whether this had to be in person. The specialist nurse apparently does this, and she said that if I could get the blood and urine test done myself, then this could be done virtually, which for me travelling from Scotland is advantageous. I asked about needing an ECG, she said that this was for the anaesthetist and she believed they would be happy without based on my medical history and the fact that I was fit and active.

• I asked about stopping hormones and was informed that although its usual to be required to stop hormones 4-6 weeks beforehand. In light of modern bio-identical Oestrogen having a lower risk factor and depending on the patient there was an option to continue on hormones, providing it could be shown that levels were stable for over a year, and that a disclaimer was signed.

• I asked about sensitivity - and was informed that the aim was always to construct a sensitive clitoris and clitoral hood, but this could not be guaranteed, and that 15% of people would not experience a sensate clitoris. I asked what constituted 'no sensitivity', and was informed that this varied person-to-person. I believe that she was eluding to sensitivity reaching a level that would possibly enable an orgasm. I was informed that sensitivity can take a year to develop, and for patients who find that they do not experience sensitivity, testosterone injections into the area could be considered - but were not favoured by many patients!

• I asked what happened re payment for fixing up serious issues such as fustilla, and was told that there would have to be an agreement with the hospital re how much this was going to cost the patient to have fixed.

• I asked whether more minor issues such as Granulation (treated with silver nitrate) could be sorted more locally to me. I was informed that this was not an issue provided I could find a gynaecologist who was willing!

• Lastly re depth. I asked if it was reasonable to ask her to prioritise less risk of bowel injury over depth, if, during surgery she ascertained that creating good depth would be risky for the bowel, she said yes, but that this was her automatic fall-back anyway.

Finally I was asked about dates. My hope is September, as I can't bear to spend the summer months on my back dilating. I think it will be less tedious when the weather is horrible outside! She told me that her secretary Bolor would contact me with some proposed dates.

She and the nurse were warm and welcoming, and easy to talk to. I was not rushed and my (remaining) questions were answered fully. The stress of the getting there and minor nervousness I had in the waiting room melted away. I was only in for 20 mins tops.

She appeared to appreciate my realistic expectations and also the fact that I was well researched.

In short, I have every confidence in my chosen surgeon going forwards.

Hope this helps others, I will post more as I get closer to surgery.