August saw a major milestone reached by leading top surgeon, Mr Ioannis Ntanos, as he performed his 500th case of gender affirming surgery on a transgender patient.
Mr Ntanos, who specialises in delivering top surgery to trans men, those who identify as non-binary, and individuals who seek a more masculine presentation, was presented with balloons and a card signed by his colleagues at the PINES Hospital in Manchester, which is part of the Transform Hospital Group.
Mr Ntanos explained: “It’s incredible to have reached this milestone, which is the result of my work at the PINES and through the NHS, at North Manchester General Hospital. Having it recognised by my colleagues was a very special moment!
“Knowing I am helping my patients to live authentically makes every patient I see and every surgery I carry out particularly meaningful, which is what makes working in trans healthcare so fulfilling. Having said that, it’s a specialism which is not without its challenges.
“I myself regularly experience transphobia as a result of my work and it gives me such an insight into what my patients are going through. While it can be hard, I take comfort from the fact that I know my work makes a difference. This patient cohort deserves access to the very best care and I am honoured to be able to play such a pivotal role in their transition.
“It's so wonderful to receive love for who you are and what you do. I am proud to be part of a team that is making this possible for the people who need it.”