Since the face is the first thing that people notice, facial feminization surgery is a very popular surgery offered by the International Center for Transgender Care. The first medical protocol for the transwoman is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This is a combination of estrogen and anti-androgen (testosterone reducing) medications. While this can have dramatic results on physical features such as softening of skin and redistribution of body fat, many transwomen want a more dramatic feminine face which can only be achieved by facial feminization surgery.
During puberty, the transwoman undergoes a male puberty which masculinizes the body and face. This results in a larger chin and nose, a stronger and larger chin/jaw, less full cheeks and larger brow bossing (ridge above the eyes). For some transwomen who transition before or at puberty, these effects can be reduced or eliminated through hormone replacement therapy. But for other transwomen who have gone through a male puberty, the results are done so to achieve a more feminine face, surgery is necessary. Transwomen who undergo facial feminization surgery experience increased levels of self-esteem and improved satisfaction with their physical appearance.
Facial feminization surgery is actually comprised of severeal facial surgeries done in combination to achieve a feminine appearance. This will be rhinoplasty to reduce the nose and make it more feminine, lip lift to achieve a fuller upper lift and reduce the height between the upper lip and the nose, cheek implants to create fuller cheeks, jaw and chin reduction to create a softer, narrower and feminine shape and brow bossing shaving or reduction. When done in combination along with estrogen therapy, these surgeries result in a dramatic feminine appearance. This results in improved self-esteem and confidence along with “blending in” for the transwoman.
Facial feminization surgery is a safe procedure, and most transwomen are very happy with their results. During the procedure, the surgeon will make tiny incisions in the treatment area. Because incisions are from the inside and small, scarring is minimal. Forehead shortening is done at the hairline level so any visible scars are minimal and usually fade over time. Swelling is expected after surgery but usually subsides within a few days.
At the International Center for Transgender Care, our surgeons have over twenty years of experience treating transgender patients. Visit us at TheTransCenter.com to schedule a consultation or call us at 469-429-7557. We look forward to assisting you in achieving the very best results for your facial feminization surgery.
