Dr. Lee C. Zhao
Leading Urologist in Gender-Affirming Phalloplasty Surgery
Dr. Lee C. Zhao, MD is a board-certified reconstructive urologist at NYU Langone Health in New York City, specializing in complex urogenital reconstruction and gender-affirming surgery. As a national leader in phalloplasty-related urologic care, Dr. Zhao is known for his innovative surgical techniques, compassionate approach, and commitment to improving urinary function and quality of life for transgender and nonbinary patients.
Working in close partnership with plastic surgeon Dr. Rachel Bluebond-Langner, Dr. Zhao plays a key role in NYU Langone’s multidisciplinary phalloplasty team. Together, they offer Radial Forearm Flap (RFF) and Anterolateral Thigh (ALT) phalloplasty, with Dr. Zhao focusing on the critical urological aspects of the surgery—including urethral lengthening, implantation of erectile devices, urethral reconstruction, and management of postoperative complications. Dr. Zhao’s role is vital in ensuring safe, functional, and long-lasting outcomes for patients undergoing phalloplasty.
Urologic Complications After Phalloplasty
Phalloplasty with urethral lengthening allows for the ability to urinate while standing, but it also comes with the risk of urinary complications. Dr. Zhao is a leading expert in addressing these issues, which may include:
- Urethral strictures: Narrowing of the reconstructed urethra, which can obstruct urine flow
- Fistulas: Abnormal connections between the urethra and surrounding tissue, resulting in leakage
- Urethral diverticula: Pouch-like formations that can trap urine and lead to infections
- Urinary retention or dribbling: Difficulty fully emptying the bladder or persistent leakage
Using both open and robotic-assisted surgical techniques, Dr. Zhao performs urethral repairs, fistula closures, and complex reconstructions to restore urinary function. He tailors each procedure to the patient’s anatomy, surgical history, and goals, often conducting diagnostic evaluations such as cystoscopy and imaging prior to intervention.
Education and Leadership
- Medical Degree: Northwestern University, 2006
- Residency: McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, Urology, 2012
- Fellowship: UT Southwestern Medical Center, Reconstructive Surgery, 2013
Dr. Zhao serves as Co-Director of the Transgender Reconstructive Surgery Program at NYU Langone and holds faculty positions in both the Departments of Urology and Plastic Surgery. He is the Director of Male Reconstructive Surgery for the NYU Health System and Surgical Director at Tisch Hospital. His extensive research on surgical outcomes and robotic techniques has contributed to global advancements in reconstructive urology.
Dr. Zhao has authored numerous articles on trauma, surgical outcomes, and reconstructive techniques. His research includes participation in collaborative studies to improve patient safety and surgical results.
Consultation and Requirements
Consultations with Dr. Zhao are coordinated through Dr. Bluebond-Langner’s office and take place in person at NYU Langone in New York City. Insurance is required—private insurance and Amida Care (NY Medicaid) are accepted. Medicare, out-of-state Medicaid, and cash-pay clients are not accepted at this time.
Surgical eligibility for phalloplasty with urethral lengthening includes:
- Must be age 18 or older
- Letter from a qualified mental health provider per WPATH guidelines
- BMI of 33 or lower for phalloplasty
- Non-smoking status or willingness to stop smoking preoperatively
- A vaginectomy is required if urethral lengthening is performed
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