Facial Feminization Surgery

This article was updated on October 24th, 2023 at 01:12 pm

Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) encompasses a suite of surgical procedures aimed at altering typically male facial features to bring them closer in shape and size to typical female facial features.

These procedures can be crucial for transgender individuals, particularly transgender women, who might seek FFS to alleviate gender dysphoria and help their physical appearance match their gender identity.

FFS Surgery

Here’s an overview of FFS:

Procedures Included

  • Forehead Contouring: This procedure reduces the bony ridge and reshapes the forehead to a more feminine appearance.
  • Hairline Lowering: Bringing down the hairline creates a more feminine forehead shape.
  • Eyebrow Lift: A higher eyebrow position is often associated with a feminine appearance.
  • Rhinoplasty: Reshaping the nose to a more feminine shape and size.
  • Cheek Implants: Enhancing the cheeks to create a fuller, softer look.
  • Chin and Jaw Contouring: Reshaping and/or reducing the jaw and chin to create a more feminine contour.
  • Lip Lift or Augmentation: Enhancing the lips to create a fuller and more feminine appearance.
  • Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave): Reducing the prominence of the Adam’s Apple.

Who Can Benefit from Facial Feminization Surgery

It helps many people. Here’s a simpler explanation of who can benefit:

  1. Transgender Women:
    • They get FFS to look more like women, which is important for their gender journey.
    • It eases their distress when their body doesn’t match their gender.
    • Looking more feminine helps them get recognized as women, making social situations easier.
  2. Cisgender Women:
    • Some want FFS to soften manly facial features.
    • They may do it to feel better about themselves or to fit societal beauty standards.
  3. Non-Binary and Gender Non-Conforming People:
    • They may get FFS to look more gender-neutral.
    • FFS can be customized to meet their unique needs.
  4. People with Manly Faces due to Conditions:
    • Conditions like PCOS can make faces look manly. FFS can help.
  5. People Wanting Revision Surgery:
    • If someone didn’t like the results of past facial surgery, they might get FFS to fix it.
  6. People with Uneven Faces or Deformities:
    • Some may find FFS helpful in making their face look balanced.
  7. People with Emotional Reasons:
    • If someone feels bad about their face, FFS might boost their confidence and help in social settings.
before and after facial feminization surgery

Is facial feminization permanent?

Yes, Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) gives permanent results. Here’s a simple breakdown:

  • Lasting Changes: FFS changes bone and soft tissues in the face. Procedures like changing the shape of the forehead, jaw, and chin give lasting changes.
  • Soft Tissue Work: Some work like fat grafting, lip filling, or cheek implants deal with soft tissues. While bone work is permanent, soft tissues can change with age or weight changes.
  • Extra Treatments: Later on, some people might choose extra treatments like fillers or Botox to keep or enhance their look.
  • Aging: Everyone ages. People who get FFS will see face changes as they age. But the basic changes from FFS stay.
  • Surgeon Skill: A good surgeon can make a big difference in the results. It’s key to choose a skilled surgeon for good, lasting results.
  • Healing: People heal differently after surgery. Following the surgeon’s advice helps get the best and most lasting results.

In short, FFS gives permanent changes, but aging and other factors can still change how a person looks over time. Talking to a good surgeon can help set the right expectations for the long term.

Things to Consider After Facial Feminization Surgery

Here’s a list of things to consider:

  • Swelling and Bruising: These are common after FFS. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated can help minimize swelling. The majority of swelling and bruising will gradually subside over a few weeks.
  • Dietary Considerations: You might be advised to stick to a soft food diet initially to avoid strain on your facial muscles, especially if you’ve had jaw or chin work.
  • Hygiene and Showering: As discussed earlier, be gentle when washing your face and be cautious about showering. Avoid direct water pressure on your face.
  • Sun Exposure: Limit sun exposure, as it can cause discoloration on healing scars. When you do go out, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and consider protective hats or clothing.
  • Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: Both can impair the healing process. It’s best to avoid them in the weeks leading up to and following your surgery.
  • Sleep Position: Try to sleep on your back with your head elevated. This can help reduce swelling and avoid placing pressure on surgical sites.

Cost of Surgery

How much does FFS cost in Turkey?

The cost of making your face more feminine with surgery in Turkey can change based on what changes you want, who your surgeon is, and where in Turkey you have it done. Bigger cities like Istanbul might have different prices. Turkey is known for good prices for this surgery. For the exact cost, it’s best to talk to clinics or surgeons in Turkey.

For exact cost information, you can get price from Estheticland

Frequently Asked About FFS Surgery

What is the minimum age for facial feminization surgery?

The minimum age for Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is typically 18. However, some surgeons might recommend waiting until the mid-20s when facial development is more complete. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the right timing for surgery based on individual circumstances.

Can FFS make your face smaller?

Yes, Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) can make the face appear smaller or more proportionate through procedures like jaw reduction, chin reduction, and forehead contouring. These procedures aim to bring a more feminine and often a more refined or smaller appearance to the face.

What can I eat after FFS?

Makeup: Use makeup to highlight feminine features and contour masculine features.
Hairstyle: Choose a hairstyle that softens your facial features.
Eyebrow Shaping: Shape your eyebrows in a more feminine arch.
Skin Care: Maintain a good skincare routine for a smoother complexion.
Hormone Therapy: Consult a doctor about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which can lead to softer skin and reduced facial hair.
Voice Therapy: While not a facial feature, a feminine voice can enhance feminine appearance.
Non-Surgical Procedures: Consider non-surgical procedures like fillers or Botox to add fullness or smooth lines.
Hair Removal: Use laser hair removal or electrolysis to reduce or eliminate facial hair.

How do you shower after FFS?

Typically, surgeons will advise you to wait at least 24 to 48 hours post-surgery before showering. This is to ensure that your incisions start to heal and to prevent complications. When you do shower, avoid letting the water stream directly hit your face for the first few days. Use lukewarm water on your face. Hot water can increase swelling and might irritate your healing incisions.