Stanley Biber

Stanley H. Biber (May 4, 1923 – January 16, 2006) was an American surgeon renowned for his pioneering work in gender confirmation surgery. He is often credited with transforming the small town of Trinidad, Colorado into the "sex change capital of the world" due to the high volume of surgeries he performed there.

Early Life and Education

Stanley Biber was born in Des Moines, Iowa, and grew up in a Jewish family. He attended the University of Iowa, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He then went on to earn his medical degree from the University of Iowa College of Medicine.

Medical Career

After completing his medical degree, Biber served as a physician in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he settled in Trinidad, Colorado, where he initially worked as a general practitioner and surgeon.

Gender Confirmation Surgery

Biber's foray into gender confirmation surgery began in 1969 when a social worker approached him about performing a sex reassignment surgery. Despite having no formal training in the procedure, Biber agreed to perform the surgery after extensive research and preparation. The successful outcome of this surgery led to a growing demand for his services.

Over the next several decades, Biber performed thousands of gender confirmation surgeries, making him one of the most experienced surgeons in the field. His work was instrumental in advancing the medical and social acceptance of transgender individuals.

Legacy

Biber's contributions to the field of transgender medicine have been widely recognized. He trained many other surgeons, including Marci Bowers, who continued his work in Trinidad after his retirement. Biber's pioneering efforts helped pave the way for the development of more advanced techniques and greater acceptance of transgender healthcare.

Personal Life

Biber was married and had several children. He was known for his dedication to his patients and his community. Despite his fame, he remained a humble and approachable figure.

Death

Stanley Biber passed away on January 16, 2006, in Pueblo, Colorado, due to complications from pneumonia. His legacy continues to influence the field of transgender medicine.

Also see

• Gender confirmation surgery
• Marci Bowers
• Transgender healthcare
• Trinidad, Colorado