Facial feminization surgery is a subsector of the transgender cosmetic surgery industry, which is concerned exclusively with making the facial features appear less masculine and more soft and lady-like. The overwhelming majority of recipients are transgender male-to-female patients, as well as female impersonators, some enthusiastic cross-dressers and even some male models. However, the procedures can also be used to help natural-born, but masculine-appearing women to achieve more traditional female facial features, as well.
Facial Feminization Surgery Defined
Feminization means to make more akin to a classical female characteristic. In the cases of cosmetic surgery, male-looking facial structures will be altered to soften them and provide a more woman-like appearance.
There are many possible procedures involved in facial feminization and surgical methods are only part of the process for most treated patients.
Most experiment with makeup and various skin treatments before undergoing any surgical intervention and only commit to the invasive modalities once they have decided that a permanent and convincing change to their anatomy is called for.
Feminization Surgery Options
Some patients choose individual surgical techniques for their needs, while others undergo a complete facial overhaul, at one time, to maximize synergy and results.
Regardless of which procedures are best indicated for your particular condition, here are some techniques that are most commonly used to treat overly masculine facial characteristics:
Cosmetic lip surgery, such as lip enhancement, is typically included for most patients.
Brow lift or complete face lift, are very effective at reshaping the facial characteristics. Of course, there is often extensive bone and infrastructure reshaping accomplished in “face-off” procedures, which will actually change the shape of the skull.
Hairline revision is common in most patients.
Chin and jawline reduction will make the lower face appear more feminine.
Cheekbone implants are highly effective at feminizing the middle face.
Tracheal shave, also known as thyroid chondroplasty, will reduce the prominence of the Adam’s apple.
A variety of general cosmetic procedures are often integrated to finalize the look and feel of the face and provide proper proportions. These may include blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty and a variety of skin treatments.
Facial Feminization Surgery Recommendations
Facial feminization can be accomplished temporarily, and without surgery, but the results are greatly limited. Makeup will help, as will a variety of noninvasive skin-only procedures for complexion enhancement.
However, true feminization can only be accomplished by treating the underlying bone and tissue beneath the skin, since these structures are responsible for providing the face with its form and profile.
To learn more about the full range of available feminization techniques, consult with a specialist in the field. This may be difficult, since this sector of surgical arts is rare indeed.
Luckily, there are some specialized care providers, in most major medical markets, who can accommodate patients from around the world. Just remember that you may have to utilize medical tourism practices to seek treatment from the best doctors in the field.
