The Definitive Guide to Facial Feminization Surgery | Dr. Jonathan Sykes

https://drjonathansykes.com/ -- Facial feminization surgery is complex and highly individualized to each patient. When we look at a face, there are certain features we associate with classical femininity: A smooth, high brow line, full lips, round cheeks, a tapered jaw, a smaller nose and pointed chin. These are the shapes that tend to make a face look female.

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What is facial feminization surgery or FFS?
Facial feminization surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery that combines various bony and soft-tissue procedures at once to create the overall effect of a more feminine-looking face. As opposed to surgeries that address only one problem area for the client, facial feminization surgery is a comprehensive approach that employs multiple methods to achieve dramatic feminization results, often in a single procedure.

Good candidates for facial feminization surgery are those women who are self-conscious about facial features that society typically views as masculine, or patients who desire facial gender reassignment surgery. We work with cisgendered women all the time, who were born biologically female, but have struggled all their lives to feel beautiful because certain aspects of their face appear “manly,” such as a deep or low brow, or a prominent chin or jawline. We also work with transgendered women and non-binary clients seeking to feel more at home in their bodies. Facial feminization surgery can be an especially transformative step for these clients, as it helps them to live their gender identity with greater joy and confidence.

How much does facial feminization surgery cost?
The cost of facial feminization surgery varies considerably based on where you have it done, who you have it done by, and how many procedures are involved in the surgery. Unfortunately, facial feminization surgery is usually not covered by insurance, but many surgeons offer financing options. In the U.S., facial feminization surgery usually costs anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000+ out-of-pocket. Your surgeon will give you a more detailed estimate following your initial consultation, and you may choose to forgo certain suggested procedures in order to keep costs down, if necessary.

What are typical procedures in facial feminization surgery?
Hairline
Advancing the hairline by moving it further down the forehead can have a dramatically feminizing effect on the face.

Nose
Rhinoplasty to reduce the size of the nose and reshape it is a common procedure in facial feminization surgery.

Jawline
Shaving the lower jaw bone or repositioning it can reduce the width and angularity of a masculine-looking jaw. Buccal fat removal is also a great option for those seeking a slimmer and more contoured jawline.

Brow Lift
Lifting the eyebrows to a higher position on the face helps counteract the masculinizing effect of a deep or furrowed brow, and reduces telltale signs of aging like forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet.

Lip Lift
Bringing the upper lip closer to the bottom of the nose makes the lower half of the face look younger and more feminine.

Face Lift
A face lift is usually performed during facial feminization, as it makes the face appear less bottom-heavy and more heart-shaped.

What are the recovery times and phases?
Your recovery time will depend on your general health, how vigilant you are about aftercare instructions, and how many component procedures are involved in your surgery. Generally speaking, you will need complete rest for at least two weeks, and should not go back to work or lift heavy objects for about six weeks. You will likely need a friend or family member to help you care for yourself following surgery, and should avoid strenuous tasks and unnecessary stress.

Are there non-surgical facial feminization procedures?
Yes. If you’re wary about going under the knife, talk to your practitioner about non- or minimally-invasive cosmetic options like injectable fillers, Botox, and ThreadLift procedures.

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Have questions?
Email Dr. Sykes at [email protected]

About Dr. Jonathan Sykes
Dr. Jonathan Sykes is a world-famous expert plastic surgeon who performs all cosmetic and functional plastic surgery procedures on the face and neck. He is a past president of The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and served on their Board of Directors for over 10 years. He is also a Professor Emeritus in Facial Plastic Surgery from UC Davis Medical Center, and the former Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at that institution. He is known as the expert’s expert, and is often called to consult and advise other plastic surgeons in both Northern California and Beverly Hills. He has a special interest in eyelid and browlift surgery, facial rejuvenation surgery, including facelifts and rhinoplasty.