Mike, my daughter had surgery at 8 months old. She had another minor procedure when she was about 2 years old, and at that time we did have to dilate her using a catheter like instrument. From what I remember, we did this twice a day for a period of about 2 weeks. It seems like a traumatic experience, but the actual dilation process only takes a moment to do. That is the only time we ever had to do anything like that, and she doesn't remember any of it. For females with excessive masculinization (like my daughter had) I believe that early surgery is the best possible choice. That doesn't mean I expect everyone to agree with me... it's only my belief; I also followed the advise of our doctors, but I am happy with the decisions I have made. My daughter underwent additional reconstructive surgery just about 1 1/2 years ago. It was a pretty minor operation, and she sailed right through with no problems. Her only concern was that she couldn't ride a bike for a week or so... and this is a kid who lives on two wheels. She will have another exam when she is old enough to become sexually active. This will be to determine that she has maintained an adequate vaginal opening, with no stenosis or "narrowing down". The doctor does not expect this to be an issue, but it is something that will be checked just in case. If all looks well at that point, she will need no further surgery. We have even discussed the possibility of natural childbirth for her when she gets older, and he seems to think this may be possible.