fbpx

Trans sisters in Brazil first twins to undergo gender reassignment surgery together

Lifelong intense genital dysphoria made the risks of surgery seem minor. On the eve of our procedures, I felt consumed with the thought of finally liberating my body to match my identity. I was overcome with joy.

  • 12 months ago
  • December 28, 2023
4 min read
Mayla and Sofia are transgender twins from Brazil who were the first twins in the country to both undergo reassignment surgery. | Photo courtesy Mayla Albuquerck Mayla and Sofia are transgender twins from Brazil who were the first twins in the country to both undergo reassignment surgery. | Photo courtesy Mayla Albuquerck
jounalist’s notes
interview subject
Mayla Albuquerck, 21, is from Tapira, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and is a pioneering figure alongside her twin sister Sofía, known for being the first transgender twins in Brazil to undergo sexual reassignment surgery. They underwent the procedure at 19 years old. Featured in the HBO documentary series “Transgender Twins,” Mayla is currently pursuing a medical degree in Buenos Aires, Argentina, furthering her commitment to healthcare and transgender advocacy.
background information
Feminization surgery, or gender affirmation surgery, involves a range of procedures to align one’s physical appearance with their gender identity. Options include breast augmentation, genital reconstruction, and facial contouring. While these surgeries can significantly alleviate gender dysphoria, they are not without costs, risks, and changes to fertility and sensation. The decision to undergo such procedures is deeply personal, reflecting each individual’s needs and feelings towards their body. For more detailed information, visit Mayo Clinic.

SAN PABLO, Brazil — From a young age, my twin sister Sofía and I understood our queerness. We secretly wore our younger sister’s clothing and found joy away from the world’s disapproval. At home, our grandmother’s love fueled our dreams. Bravely, we became the first transgender twins in Brazil to undergo sexual reassignment surgery together, a powerful step in our shared journey.

However, we faced intense scrutiny. We found strength in the support of our family and the acceptance of our community. Our story, once a source of pain, turned into an inspiration. Now, as I study medicine, I am dedicated to offering hope to others like us. Our journey reflects resilience and the power of embracing our truth.

Read more stories on sex & gender at Orato World Media.

Battling intense dysphoria and facing surgery

From childhood, I recognized my unique nature, distinct from other people’s perceptions. At eight or nine years old, I experienced doubts about my sexuality but the concept of being gay remained foreign to me. As soon as my mom left for work each day, my twin and I eagerly dressed in our younger sister’s clothing. We reveled in the forbidden joy it brought to our hearts.

In the streets, we witnessed disapproving glances as if people rejected our very existence. Parents warned their children to stay away from us, fearing we might be contagious. After each social sting, however, I returned to my grandmother’s comforting ritual. She would bake cheese bread, stuff it with meat, pour me a glass of guarana, and reassure me, “Everything will be alright.” Amidst adversity, my family became my sanctuary.

As I navigated this challenging path, nature offered me solace. I loved the dandelions. Each one represented a silent prayer to become my true self. I sent these wishes skyward with each blown seed, dreaming of transformation. This daily ritual continued until I turned 19, each dandelion a symbol of my enduring journey toward authenticity.

In 2021, my twin and I courageously faced surgery. Lifelong intense genital dysphoria made the risks of surgery seem minor. On the eve of our procedures, I felt consumed with the thought of finally liberating my body to match my identity. I was overcome with joy.

While one celebrated, the other went to some dark places

When my sister decided to post on Instagram about our surgery, she unintentionally outed me, and life began to feel overwhelming. Soon, a news report referred to us as the only twin trans girls from Tapira. This put me in the spotlight and made me furious about the invasion of privacy. The exposure drove me to some dark places, and I started thinking about suicide at a time that should have been happy.

Seeking psychological support changed everything. It empowered me to embrace my identity and stride confidently through the streets. Faced with the opportunity to be featured in an HBO documentary, I overcame my hesitation. Considering the financial relief the project would bring to my mother, I accepted.

Upon its release, the documentary unexpectedly warmed my heart. Messages from parents of trans children praised me as an inspiration. These interactions reshaped my view, helping me appreciate my public figure status and its potential to assist others. It became a deeply enriching experience.

Mayla (left) and Sofia (right): the first transgender twins to undergo reassignment surgery together in Brazil. | Photo courtesy Mayla Albuquerck

I am now pursuing a medical degree and aspire to provide transformative surgeries to individuals like me, making vital care more accessible. My faith stands unshaken. Despite what some might say, I believe in a God who loves me as I am. I am committed to using my experiences and medical knowledge to improve lives. While I acknowledge the importance of labels for many people, I do not confine myself to one. To me, I am simply a woman, transcending the labels of cis or trans.

Elevate voices, Fund truth

Support journalists writing first-person news. Give

Translation Disclaimer

Translations provided by Orato World Media are intended to result in the translated end-document being understandable in the intended language. Although every effort is made to ensure our translations are accurate we cannot guarantee the translation will be without errors.

Related