+66 (0) 2 715 0111
consult@pai.co.th
What Is Shallow-Depth (Zero-Depth) Vaginoplasty?
Shallow-depth vaginoplasty – also referred to as zero-depth vaginoplasty or vulvoplasty – is termed minimal-depth vaginoplasty at Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI). These terms describe the same surgical procedure.
Minimal-depth vaginoplasty is a form of male-to-female (MtF) gender-affirming genital surgery that involves the construction of external female genitalia (vulva) with minimal or no vaginal canal formation. Rather than creating a full-depth neovagina, the procedure utilizes penile and scrotal tissue to surgically construct:
• Labia majora and labia minora
• A clitoris with preserved neurovascular sensation
• A urethral meatus repositioned to allow a physiologic downward urinary stream
• Anatomically appropriate external genital configuration
• A natural-appearing vulva with attention to aesthetic detail
Why Choose Shallow-Depth (minimum depth, zero depth) Vaginoplasty?
Minimum-Depth, Shallow-Depth vaginoplasty may be an appropriate option for transgender women and non-binary individuals who:
• Do not desire penetrative vaginal intercourse
• Wish to avoid the requirement for lifelong vaginal dilation associated with full-depth vaginoplasty
• Have medical conditions or anatomical considerations that make full-depth vaginoplasty less suitable
• Prefer a shorter operative time and recovery period, with potentially fewer complications
• Desire an external vulvar appearance with limited vaginal depth sufficient for comfort or digital penetration, but not intended for full penetrative intercourse
• Seek minimal vaginal depth to support personal comfort and a sense of bodily congruence
Example From a Patient Who Chose Minimum-Depth Vaginoplasty
My priority is to feel comfortable in my body, both when naked and in tight-fitting clothing. I do not have a strong sex drive, but retaining enough sensation to masturbate is important to me. I am drawn to shallow-depth vaginoplasty because I am not interested in penetrative sex and believe I would find the long-term dilation requirements of full-depth surgery difficult to maintain.
Since realizing I was a woman and beginning my transition, my life has improved dramatically. I am healthier, more focused, socially comfortable, and emotionally grounded on estrogen. Transitioning has been the most positive decision of my adult life. However, my natal genitalia continue to cause significant discomfort. Although hormone therapy has reduced their function, which I experience as a relief, their form remains unchanged. I find them dysphoric, and this affects my daily life, particularly when showering, using the restroom, and during intimacy.
I would rather invest in my well-being now than continue living in a body that does not align with who I am. I understand the limitations of gender-affirming surgery and do not expect biological fertility. Even so, I believe this procedure would meaningfully improve my quality of life, allowing me to feel more at ease in my body, more confident with my partner, and whole.
PAI’s reputation for aesthetic excellence and surgical precision, along with your shorter timeline and international experience, makes you an ideal choice for me.
Benefits of Zero-Depth, Shallow-Depth (Minimal-Depth) Vaginoplasty
• Creation of realistic, natural-appearing external female genitalia
• Elimination of the need for routine or lifelong vaginal dilation
• Preservation of clitoral sensation and sexual responsiveness
• Reduced long-term postoperative maintenance requirements
• Reduced risk of complications such as vaginal prolapse, stenosis, and neovaginal infections
• Shorter operative time and postoperative recovery compared with full-depth vaginoplasty
👉 Summary:
Minimal-depth vaginoplasty (also referred to as shallow-depth or zero-depth vaginoplasty) creates the external appearance of female genitalia with minimal or no vaginal canal formation. This approach represents a safe and affirming option for patients who do not require penetrative vaginal function, while prioritizing preservation of erotic sensation and orgasmic potential. Aesthetic outcomes are a key consideration, particularly the creation of well-defined labia minora and anatomically congruent vulvar structures. Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI)’s surgical results demonstrate a high level of natural appearance, definition, and structural refinement, which is a primary reason for pursuing consultation.
Surgical Expertise at Preecha Aesthetic Institute – Leaders in Gender-Affirming Surgery in Thailand
– Assoc. Prof. Dr. Preecha Tiewtranon, MD, Dr. Burin Wangjiraniran, FRCST MD and Dr. Sutin Khobunsongserm, MD
Explore our services: Sex Reassignment Surgery (MtF surgery)
Male-to-Female (MtF) surgery package, including minimum-depth vaginoplasty is designed to deliver safe, high-quality and comfortable care from pre-op to full recovery.
Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI) in Bangkok, Thailand, specializes in advanced Male-to-Female (MtF) gender-affirming surgery, including minimum-depth vaginoplasty and related penile inversion techniques. PAI is a member of WPATH and Asia PATH and follows internationally recognized Standards of Care to ensure safe, ethical, and evidence-based treatment.
Candidates are carefully evaluated to confirm physical, psychological, and emotional readiness for surgery, with the goal of achieving natural outcomes and long-term patient satisfaction.
Candidates for surgery are typically required to meet the following criteria:
Patients must be at least 18 years of age.
Individuals aged 18–19 are required to provide a birth certificate and obtain parental or legal guardian consent. A parent or legal guardian (with legal documentation) must be present at PAI’s clinic or hospital to provide formal written permission for surgery.
Individuals aged 20 years or older do not require parental or guardian presence or consent.
PAI is equipped with advanced facilities, including multiple consultation rooms, operating suites for procedures under local anesthesia, modern surgical technology, comfortable recovery areas, and internationally accepted hygiene standards. Among its core procedures is Male-to-Female (minimum depth vaginoplasty) performed under general anesthesia to ensure patient safety and comfort. This procedure typically requires approximately five days of hospitalization with continuous postoperative monitoring and care.
All surgeries requiring general anesthesia are performed at two affiliated private hospitals in Bangkok, both accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI). These hospitals meet the highest international standards for patient safety and medical excellence and feature private patient rooms, advanced surgical technology, and large-capacity inpatient facilities.
Guided by the philosophy of “World-Class Quality with Thai Hospitality,” PAI and its partner hospitals provide comprehensive, compassionate care throughout the surgical journey. All consultations, preoperative assessments, and postoperative follow-up appointments are conducted at PAI, ensuring continuity of care and optimal surgical outcomes.
Preecha Aesthetic Institute
Affiliated hospital
Affiliated hospital
Patient Support Services at Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI)
At Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI), we understand that traveling abroad for surgery can feel overwhelming. That’s why we provide comprehensive patient support services to ensure comfort, convenience, and peace of mind throughout your journey.
Included & Optional Services:
Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI) is an internationally recognized center for gender-affirming surgery and a pioneer of Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS) in Thailand. Founded in Bangkok by Assoc. Prof. Preecha Tiewtranon, MD, with Dr. Sutin Khobunsongserm, MD and Dr. Burin Wangjiraniran, MD, FRCST, PAI has advanced transgender surgical care for over four decades.
With more than 6,000 gender-affirming procedures performed, PAI specializes in penile inversion and sigmoid colon vaginoplasty techniques and is recognized for surgical precision, safety, and ethical clinical practice. Guided by international standards of care and a commitment to compassionate treatment, PAI remains a leading institution in gender-affirming surgery.
Our experienced surgeons at PAI are here to personally review and answer all your questions. To help us understand your goals and give you the best guidance, please share the following details in your message.
Consultation Process for Oversea Patient
Once your details are confirmed, we will guide you through scheduling your final consultation and arranging your Male-to-Female (MtF) gender affirmation surgery with our expert surgical team at Preecha Aesthetic Institute.
We are pleased to assist you in taking the next step in your transition journey. Please follow the steps below to schedule your surgery and prepare for your visit to Bangkok.
Before scheduling your surgery, you must provide at least one referral letter from a licensed mental health professional or hormone therapy provider.
Please consider your availability and desired time frame for the procedure. Send us your preferred dates, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Once we have received your referral letter and preferred dates, our team will review your information. We will contact you to confirm your official surgery date and provide next steps.
After your surgery date has been confirmed, you may proceed with booking your flights to Bangkok. Please ensure your travel schedule allows for the required pre- and post-operative stay:
If you would like assistance with booking accommodation, we can provide recommendations and help arrange your stay at one of our partner hotels.
Rates typically range from USD 50-70 per night, including breakfast (cooperative rate).
We will arrange for a driver to meet you upon arrival in Bangkok.
At Preecha Aesthetic Institute, we are committed to delivering world-class medical care complemented by the warmth and hospitality for which Thailand is internationally recognized.
For further information or to arrange a personalized consultation, please contact Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI):
📍 Address: 898/1 Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor), Bangkok, Thailand
📞 Tel: +66 2 715 0111
📧 Email us: consult@pai.co.th
Minor complications may include issues such as delayed wound healing, which can be minimized by carefully following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and attending all recommended follow-up appointments.
At Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI), patient safety is our highest priority. For patients living with HIV, surgical care is provided in accordance with established Infection Control Center protocols to ensure safety, clinical effectiveness, and optimal outcomes.
These criteria are implemented to support a safe surgical environment and promote optimal recovery for all patients undergoing gender-affirming surgery at Preecha Aesthetic Institute.
1. Write your question, interest at consult us in program form
2. Via email consult@pai.co.th
2.1 list your expectations or procedure that you are interest and give us your detail as possible
2.2 email to us
2.3 We will get back to you shortly after receive your question with recommendation from specialize surgeon
Once you know your planning date for surgery. Here is the next step:
1. Consultation with us via email for details and procedure
2. Plan your available date to be surgery and departure from Bangkok
3. We will confirm you for surgery date
4. You may start to book your airline ticket
5. We will confirm you all detail and hotel booking, if require
6. For transportation to be pick up from the airport, we can do for you as optional
To ensure the best results and a smooth surgical experience, please follow these pre-operative guidelines carefully:
Before Your Surgery
Payment Information
To make your recovery and hospital stay as comfortable as possible, patients are advised to bring the following items from home:
Bringing these items helps ensure a comfortable, safe, and stress-free recovery after surgery at Preecha Aesthetic Institute (PAI), Bangkok, Thailand.
To ensure a smooth surgical experience and safe recovery, the following minimum 18-day schedule is recommended for patients undergoing MtF sex reassignment surgery:
Total Minimum Stay: 18 days (including pre- and post-surgery recovery period)
This structured timeline ensures patients receive comprehensive medical supervision, proper postoperative care, and sufficient time to recover comfortably after surgery.
Procedure & Goal: Zero-depth vaginoplasty focuses on the creation of anatomically accurate external genitalia-including the mons pubis, clitoris, labia majora, and labia minora - while forming no vaginal canal or only a minimal, shallow depth.
Advantages & Results:
Affiliated hospitals : International Standard Hospital (JCI’s Accredited, HA)
Recovery Sex Reassignment Surgery from Minimum-Depth vaginoplasty require to be in Bangkok 14 days after surgery.
Back to work: after 20 days more
Strenuous activity: 6 - 8 weeks
Fading of scars: several months to a year
Possible Risks and Complications
Minimum-depth vaginoplasty is widely regarded as a lower-risk surgical alternative to full-depth vaginoplasty, as it omits vaginal canal construction. This approach substantially reduces the likelihood of complications such as bowel injury and rectovaginal fistula, and eliminates the requirement for long-term postoperative dilation, while maintaining satisfactory external genital outcomes.
Following minimum-depth vaginoplasty, postoperative pain is typically mild and well controlled with prescribed medication, subsiding within a few days. Surgical dressings are applied immediately after the procedure and are usually changed within the first few postoperative days. Sutures are generally removed within one week. Although surgical techniques aim to minimize scarring, some degree of scarring is inevitable; however, swelling and discoloration are usually minimal and resolve rapidly.
The healing process continues over several weeks and may extend to several months. The timing for return to work and normal daily activities varies depending on individual healing rates and overall comfort. To support optimal healing, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for up to three months following surgery.
Local Patients:
Local patients may generally return to work approximately 18 days after surgery. However, strenuous activity, rapid movements and overhead heavy lifting should be avoided for 8 to 12 weeks following the surgical date to support proper healing.
International Patients:
International patients are advised to remain in Bangkok for a minimum of 18 days in total. Sutures are typically removed between postoperative days 7 and 10. After returning home, patients may resume work within a few days, provided it does not involve strenuous activity. Heavy lifting, overhead lifting and rapid movements should be avoided for 8 to 12 weeks after surgery.
Bruising and Swelling:
Residual bruising and swelling following minimum-depth vaginoplasty generally resolve gradually and may take approximately 3 to 4 months to fully subside.
During the recovery period, individualized postoperative instructions will be provided by the surgeon on a case-by-case basis. While hospitalized, patients receive daily postoperative assessments from our nursing staff. Following discharge, postoperative follow-up evaluations are conducted by PAI’s surgeon at least twice weekly during hotel recovery, or more frequently if clinically indicated.
Patients may generally resume feminizing hormone therapy approximately one week after surgery. Consultation with the patient’s endocrinologist is recommended to appropriately adjust hormone dosages. Sudden changes in hormone levels may contribute to emotional fluctuations, and careful monitoring is advised.
Postoperative Days 1–Discharge:
PAI’s surgeon conducts daily postoperative evaluations until hospital discharge.
Postoperative Day 3:
Patients are typically able to begin slow, assisted ambulation.
Postoperative Days 5–10:
Scheduled removal of non-dissolvable sutures is performed. Absorbable sutures will dissolve naturally over time.
Weeks 8–12:
Strenuous physical activity and heavy exercise should be avoided to allow adequate healing.
Hormone Therapy:
Feminizing hormone therapy may usually be resumed several days after surgery. Patients are advised to consult their endocrinologist for appropriate dosage adjustment, as sudden hormonal changes may contribute to emotional fluctuations in some individuals.
First 3–8 Weeks
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous physical activity during this period. This precaution reduces the risk of wound dehiscence, swelling, and delayed healing while supporting proper tissue recovery.
At 8 Weeks
Most patients may begin gentle, non-strenuous tactile exploration of the clitoral area. As neural healing is ongoing, sensation may be altered, reduced, or muted at this stage. Light touch and gentle massage may support nerve recovery and contribute to long-term sensory outcomes.
At 3 Months (12 Weeks)
By approximately 12 weeks, surgical incisions are typically well healed, and the reconstructed genital tissues have regained sufficient strength to tolerate most routine daily activities.
3–6 Months
Many patients report a gradual return of erotic sensation, particularly in the clitoral region. Orgasmic response may improve in frequency and intensity over time. Recovery timelines vary, and in some individuals, full sensory and sexual function may continue to develop for up to one year postoperatively.
Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort during the first few weeks after surgery. Light bleeding and vulvar swelling are common and typically improve within several weeks. Bruising may extend to the lower abdomen, hips, or thighs and usually resolves within three to four weeks.
Temporary discharge may occur during the first one to two months and gradually clears as healing progresses.
Changes in sensation, including temporary numbness or tingling, are normal as nerves heal. Sensation generally improves gradually over several months, and full healing of the labia and clitoral area may take up to 6–10 months.
is gender-affirming genital surgery that involves the construction of external female genitalia (vulva) with minimal or no vaginal canal formation.
4 hours+
General Anesthesia
3 weeks
10-12 weeks
Several months to a year
We are pleased to support you in planning your surgery and visit to Bangkok. The scheduling process includes the following steps:
PAI (Preecha Aesthetic Institute)
898/1 Sukumvit 55 Wattana, Bangkok
10110 Thailand
Tel: +662-715-0111
Fax: +662-715-0113
Email: consult@pai.co.th
The driver will be waiting for you at door number 4 (Meeting point) after exit from customs. The driver will stand by with your name and PAI logo. [Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)]
Hotels are under cooperate and nearby PAI, starting from 50 USD to 100 USD. Rates are quoted in THB, USD/net/included of taxes and service charges. All non-commissionable rate. VISA/Master card is accepted.
Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Turkish and other languages upon request.
PAI can issue the letter to clarify with your local Embassy or Passport.
Cost of living meal per day is 15-20 USD.
The payment can be prepared in Cash by US dollar, Euro, Japanese Yen, Hong Kong Dollar, Singapore Dollar, Australia dollar. If using credit cards (VISA/Master card), the hospital will charged 3% for international transaction fee. This is only for surgery fees. Hotels are not charged for international transaction fee. An extra charged for HIV is 50% from total cost.
Australia, Austria, Belgium ,Brazil ,Bahrain , Brunei Darussalam ,Canada, Denmark ,Finland ,France, Germany ,Greece ,Hong Kong ,Iceland ,Indonesia ,Ireland ,Israel ,Italy ,Japan ,South Korea ,Kuwait ,Luxembourg , Malaysia ,Monaco ,Netherlands ,New Zealand ,Norway ,Oman ,Peru ,Philippines ,Portugal , Qatar , Singapore ,Spain ,South Africa ,Sweden ,Switzerland ,Turkey ,United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom ,United States of America ,Vietnam.
Please present the supporting documents confirming the scheduled operation upon request. Please do not carry any unnecessary drugs or dangerous objects in your luggage.
Write your question, interest at consult us in program form
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