Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS): Options and Popular Procedures

January 22, 2025

What Is Facial Feminization Surgery?

Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is a set of procedures designed to transform masculine facial features into a more feminine appearance. This surgery is highly customizable and can include a combination of bone and soft tissue procedures to achieve desired results, helping transgender women and non-binary individuals feel more aligned with their gender identity.

Popular FFS Procedures

FFS encompasses a variety of procedures that target different facial areas. The most popular surgeries include:

Forehead Reconstruction: Reduces brow prominence and reshapes the forehead for a softer appearance.
Hairline Advancement: Lowers the hairline to create a more traditionally feminine forehead.
Rhinoplasty: Reshapes the nose to achieve a smaller, more delicate profile.
Jaw Contouring: Softens the jawline by reducing the width or angularity of the jawbone.
Chin Contouring: Reduces the prominence or reshapes the chin to align with feminine proportions.
Tracheal Shave: Reduces the size of the Adam’s apple for a smoother neck profile.

Combining FFS Procedures

Many individuals choose to combine multiple FFS procedures into one surgical session to minimize recovery time and cost. Commonly combined procedures include:

Forehead Reconstruction and Hairline Advancement: These procedures complement each other for a cohesive upper facial transformation.
Jaw and Chin Contouring: Addressing the lower face simultaneously creates a balanced and harmonious appearance.
Rhinoplasty and Tracheal Shave: These can be combined to refine the profile and create a more feminine silhouette.

Staging FFS Procedures

For some individuals, spreading out FFS procedures over time allows for greater flexibility and personalized pacing. This approach can be especially beneficial for managing costs, optimizing healing, or refining goals as you progress. Examples of staged approaches include:

Addressing foundational changes, such as jaw contouring, first, then refining details like forehead and hairline in subsequent sessions.
Starting with a rhinoplasty to enhance the profile and considering complementary procedures later for cohesive results.

A skilled surgeon can guide you through creating a phased plan that prioritizes your comfort, safety, and ultimate aesthetic goals.

Choosing the Right Surgeon for FFS

FFS requires precision and expertise to achieve natural, symmetrical results. TransMD connects you with trusted surgeons who specialize in gender-affirming procedures, providing compassionate care tailored to your needs.

Preparing for Your FFS Journey

Planning your FFS journey involves careful preparation. Here are some tips to get started:

Consult Early: Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and options.
Plan Recovery: Arrange time off work and ensure you have a support system in place for post-surgery care.
Understand Costs: Work with your provider to understand pricing, financing options, and insurance coverage.