19 Jan 2018

'My quality of life has improved drastically'

From Summer Report, 8:46 am on 19 January 2018
Felix Desmarais

Felix Desmarais Photo: Supplied

Wellington comedian and writer Felix Desmarais came out as transgender a year ago and since then has had hormone therapy and a bilateral mastectomy as part of a female-to-male (FTM) transition.

The 29-year old says his doctor was "au fait with transgender issues" and he hasn't experienced any discomfort from a medical professional.

He's not surprised at the significant jump in young New Zealanders seeking transgender hormone therapy.

"We live in a much more open society than even ten years ago."

Bilateral mastectomy (removal of the breasts) is also known as "top surgery" and Felix had this operation two months ago.

"My quality of life has improved drastically. I already feel far more comfortble. I used to feel quite socially anxious just going out in public generally. A lot of that has gone away now, so that's pretty cool."

Felix is documenting his transition in a column for The Spinoff - Congratulations, She's A Boy.