RFK Jr. hails plastic surgeon group disavowing transgender surgery for those under 19

Published February 3, 2026 6:05pm ET



The American Society of Plastic Surgeons released a statement recommending doctors refuse gender-related surgeries for transgender patients under the age of 19, a move the Trump administration is calling a win.

“ASPS concludes there is insufficient evidence demonstrating a favorable risk-benefit ratio for the pathway of gender-related endocrine and surgical interventions in children and adolescents. ASPS recommends that surgeons delay gender-related breast/chest, genital, and facial surgery until a patient is at least 19 years old,” the ASPS recommendation reads.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.