What Is Facial Feminisation Surgery?
Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is a set of surgical procedures designed to soften masculine facial features and create a more traditionally feminine appearance. Each individual’s face is unique, so FFS is highly customizable, allowing patients to choose the procedures that best align with their goals. The most common areas addressed include the forehead, jawline, nose, and Adam’s apple.
How Does Facial Feminisation Surgery Work?
Facial fem surgery involves a variety of procedures, each focusing on different facial areas. The combination of procedures depends on the patient’s goals and facial structure.
1. Forehead Bone Contouring (Frontoplasty)
The forehead plays a significant role in facial gender recognition. Masculine foreheads tend to be more prominent, with a pronounced brow ridge, whereas feminine foreheads are smoother and rounder.
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2. Hairline Advancement
The position of the hairline is another key gender marker. Men’s hairlines tend to be higher and more receded, while women’s hairlines are lower and more rounded.
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3. Adam’s Apple Shaving (Tracheal Shave)
The Adam’s apple (thyroid cartilage prominence) is typically larger in men. Reducing its size is a common procedure in facial feminization surgery to create a smoother neckline.
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4. Jaw Reduction (Jaw Contouring)
A square, wide jawline is a typical masculine feature, while a narrower, more V-shaped jaw is associated with femininity. Jaw reduction surgery softens and refines the lower face.
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5. Feminizing Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)
The nose is one of the most defining gendered facial features. Feminine noses tend to be smaller, with a narrower bridge and a slightly upturned tip.
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6. Additional Feminizing Procedures
Aside from the main surgeries, some patients opt for additional enhancements to further refine their look:
- Brow Repositioning
- Cantoplasty
- Buccal Fat Removal
- Cheekbone Augmentation
- Fat Transfer To Face
- Forehead Augmentation
- Facial Implants
- Lip Lift
- Lip Injections
Each of these procedures can be customized based on individual needs to achieve the most natural, gender-affirming results.
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Risks & Benefits of Facial Feminization Surgery
Benefits
Boosts confidence & self-esteem – Helps align facial features with gender identity, reducing dysphoria.
Creates softer, more feminine features – Enhances the forehead, jaw, nose, and overall symmetry.
Improves quality of life – Leads to greater happiness, mental well-being, and social confidence.
Customizable & long-lasting – Procedures are tailored to each individual, with permanent results.
Risks
Bleeding & bruising – Common but usually temporary.
Swelling & fluid buildup – Peaks in the first week, improving over months.
Infection – Minimized with proper post-op care.
Reaction to anesthesia – Rare but possible side effects.
Poor healing or scarring – Can occur if post-op instructions aren’t followed.
Numbness or nerve damage – Temporary for most but can be permanent.
Hair loss (after hairline surgery) – May be temporary or permanent.
Facial asymmetry – Minor imbalances may require revision surgery.
Recovery & Outlook After Facial Feminization Surgery
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
- First week: Nonabsorbable stitches are removed, or absorbable stitches dissolve on their own.
- 2–6 weeks: Major swelling and bruising subside, and initial results become visible.
- 6 months: Most swelling is gone, and facial features settle.
- 1 year: Full healing and final results are achieved.
Healing varies based on procedures performed, overall health, and individual healing speed.
How Painful Is Facial Feminization Surgery?
- Expect mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising after surgery.
- Pain is manageable with prescribed medication.
- Most patients report minimal pain and a smooth recovery process.
When to Call Your Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats)
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Signs of infection (increased redness, pain, swelling, or unusual drainage)
Conclusion: Recovery takes time and patience, but with proper care, you can enjoy lifelong, natural-looking results. Always follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions for the best healing outcome.
Facial feminization surgery is a life-changing procedure that helps individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their appearance. While recovery takes time, the permanent results can be transformative.
If you’re considering FFS, consult with an experienced facial feminization surgeon to discuss your goals, options, and expected outcomes. With the right approach and proper aftercare, you can achieve natural, feminine features that align with your identity.
Your journey to a more feminine, confident you starts here with Yasin Kürşad Varsak, MD.