Sometimes we feel, "There is a gap between my inner self and my appearance," right? Not having the same external appearance as we feel on the inside is a very personal and sensitive matter. For someone who lives with this feeling, if they can adjust their appearance to the way they want, the mental peace and self-confidence that comes with it are indescribable. This surgical procedure has been introduced to help such people. Let's talk about this today.
What is this facial feminization surgery (FFS)?
Simply put, Facial Feminization Surgery, or FFS for short, is a series of surgeries that alter a person's facial features to conform to a traditionally feminine appearance. This can be done in a single surgery, or it can be done as a series of surgeries.
This involves reshaping the bones, cartilage, and soft tissue in your face, softening the rough, masculine features of your face and giving it a more feminine appearance. Many people have this surgery to change the appearance of areas like their forehead, nose, jawline, and hairline.
Who can undergo this surgery?
In fact, anyone who is in good enough health to undergo surgery can undergo this FFS surgery. However, there are some cases where this may not be appropriate.
Important: Before making a decision about this surgery, it is essential to have a very clear understanding of your expectations and the results of the surgery.
People who may be unsuitable for this surgery:
- People under 18 years of age.
- People who have unrealistic, high expectations about the results of surgery.
- People with health conditions that could make surgery dangerous. For example, people with severe heart disease, bleeding disorders, or allergies to general anesthesia may be at risk.
This surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon who specializes in facial, head, and neck surgery.
How do you prepare before surgery?
Before you undergo FFS surgery, your doctor will perform a complete examination. This is a very important step.
- Talking about goals: First, the doctor will ask you what you hope to achieve from the surgery. He will also explain what to expect during the recovery period after the surgery. It is important that your goals and the results that the doctor can provide align .
- Health check: Makes sure you are in good physical health.
- Your lifestyle (habits such as smoking and drinking) is assessed.
- A physical examination and blood tests (lab tests) are performed.
- Identify the risks for possible complications.
- They ask about the medications you are currently taking and any allergies you have.
- Imaging Scans: Sometimes, tests such as X-rays or CT scans (Computed Tomography) are needed before surgery. These can take clear pictures of the bones and soft tissues of your face and skull. This information is very helpful for your doctor in planning your surgery.
What happens during surgery?
FFS surgery varies from person to person. It depends on the facial features you choose to change. In the table below, we will see what the main types of surgeries can be performed under this category, and what they simply entail.
| Procedure Type | What simply happens |
|---|---|
| Hairline lowering | The hairline that has risen on both sides of the forehead is lowered by pulling the skin forward using an incision. If necessary, a hair transplantation can also be performed. |
| Forehead contouring | The protruding bone above the eyebrow is removed and reshaped to give the forehead a softer, smoother appearance. |
| Cheek augmentation | Cheeks are made fuller by using silicone implants or by injecting fat taken from another part of the body (e.g. thighs). |
| Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty) | The bones and cartilage of the nose are reshaped to reduce its width or change its shape. |
| Lip lift and augmentation | A small incision is made below the nostrils to lift the upper lip. Lips can also be made fuller with fat or fillers. |
| Chin reduction / Genioplasty | The size of the chin is reduced and made more pointed or oval in shape. |
| Jaw reduction | Using an incision inside the mouth, a portion of the jawbone is removed and reshaped to reduce its width and angle. Since the incision is inside the mouth, there is no visible scar from the outside. |
| Adam's apple reduction / Tracheal shave | An incision is made under the chin and a portion of cartilage in the neck is removed to reduce the protrusion of the uvula. |
How long does the surgery take?
This will vary depending on the number of surgeries you have. If you do it all at once, it could take a long time, maybe 8 or 9 hours. Some surgeons recommend breaking this into two surgeries, spaced 7-10 days apart. That gives your face more time to heal.
What to expect after surgery?
For a few days after surgery, you will have gauze or bandages over your incisions. You may also wear compression wraps around your forehead or chin to reduce swelling.
You may need to go home with a surgical drain . This is a thin plastic tube that is placed under the skin. It is used to drain blood and fluid that collects inside and reduce swelling.
As for the healing time, non-dissolvable stitches are removed in about a week. If you have dissolvable stitches, you don't need to remove them. Even after the stitches are removed, it will take several weeks for the stitches to fully heal and you to see the desired results. Although most swelling and bruising will subside within 2-6 weeks, it can take up to a year to see the full results. So it's important to be patient.
What are the benefits and risks of this surgery?
Benefits
The biggest benefit of this surgery is the psychological relief it provides. It can help you feel more confident about your appearance, increase your self-esteem, and improve your quality of life.
Risks
Like any surgery, FFS has some risks. It's important to be aware of these.
- Bleeding
- Bruises
- Swelling and fluid accumulation (Edema)
- Hair loss in the area after lowering the hairline
- Infections
- Numbness in various parts of the face
- Cuts not healing properly
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
When to see a doctor immediately
If you experience any of the following symptoms after surgery, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- Abnormal heartbeat (Arrhythmia)
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Signs of infection (redness, pain, pus, or increased swelling around the incision)
Take-Home Message
- Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is a very personal decision. It is an important step in your journey to align your outer appearance with your inner identity.
- This is not a single surgery, but a combination of surgeries. You can choose the most appropriate procedures based on the changes you want.
- Before surgery, it is very important to talk openly with your doctor about your expectations and set realistic goals.
- Healing takes time. Don't expect immediate results. Keep in mind that it can take up to a year to see full results.
- It is very important to choose an experienced surgeon who can support you on this journey and who understands your goals.
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