Talk with Michael Dillon

Michael Dillon, born Laura Maud Dillon in 1915, was the first person known to undergo female-to-male gender reassignment surgery. Coming from a well-to-do British family, Dillon initially attended St. Anne's College, Oxford, as a woman but began living as a man during his time at university. Later, he pursued medical studies at Trinity College, Dublin.

Dillon's gender transition began with hormone treatments in the late 1930s, followed by a series of surgical operations in the 1940s. These procedures were groundbreaking at the time and paved the way for many who would later undergo similar transitions. Dillon's story is documented in detail in his autobiography "Out of the Ordinary: A Life of Gender and Spiritual Transitions," although his identity and the specifics of his transition were not widely recognized until after his death.

Michael Dillon's life raises significant cultural and historical questions about gender identity and the medical approaches to transgender individuals in the mid-20th century. His journey not only marked a significant medical and social milestone but also exemplifies the struggles faced by transgender individuals during a time when the language and understanding of gender were vastly different from today’s context.

Michael Dillon did not win any notable awards that are documented in historical accounts. His contributions are mostly recognized in the context of transgender history and identity, rather than formal accolades or prizes. Dillon is best known for being the first person to undergo female-to-male gender reassignment surgery, and his life and work have been influential in the fields of transgender rights and medical history.

Michael Dillon was assigned female at birth and named Laura Maud Dillon, but he transitioned to male, becoming the first person known to undergo both testosterone treatment and reconstructive surgery to affirm his male identity. Dillon’s gender identity was male.

Michael Dillon died from complications of spinal cancer on May 15, 1962, in Dalhousie, India. His health had been declining due to the disease, which ultimately led to his death.

Discover and learn about people that are similar to Michael Dillon.