YES, some of our providers DO offer electrolysis for surgical prep!

Hair can sometimes return to an area a couple of years after it was laser treated. If a surgery is 4-5 years out, laser may be an option (giving time to ensure the area has truly been cleared). If a surgery is less than 4 years out, electrolysis is a better option.

The amount of surface area that will need to be fully cleared prior to surgery will be determined by your surgeon. They will provide the electrologist with the specifications for clearing prior to your Vaginoplasty, Labioplasty, Phalloplasty, or other gender related surgery.

Electrolysis is a process that can take approximately 18 months, depending on the treatment area, the length of sessions you can tolerate, and how consistently you’re able to maintain a treatment schedule.

In Portland, there is a shortage of electrologists, and not all offer treatments for surgical preparation. The demand is high, and many providers have waiting lists ranging from several months to over a year.

If you are preparing for gender affirming surgery—whether in the near or distant future—it’s wise to begin reaching out to electrologists now and getting on wait lists as soon as possible.

Each provider at The Electrolysis Collective is self-employed, so their policies and ability to accept insurance vary by provider.

All providers can issue detailed receipts that you may submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Please confirm coverage directly with your health insurance provider.