Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS)
Facial feminization surgery, or FFS, is a set of surgical procedures designed to transform the masculine
features of the face to give it a more feminine appearance. Facial feminization surgery involves a range
of aesthetic and reconstructive surgical procedures that work to reshape masculine facial features by
surgical manipulation of the bone and soft tissues of the face to create a feminine appearance. There are
many surgical options used to perform facial feminization surgery, including:
- Hairline advancement
- Forehead reduction
- Brow lift
- Blepharoplasty (upper and lower eyelids)
- Rhinoplasty
- Cheek augmentation
- Earlobe reduction
- Upper lip shortening
- Lip augmentation
- Chin contouring
- Jaw reduction
- Tracheal shave (Adam’s apple reduction)
Many factors should be taken into consideration when choosing which options are best-suited for each
individual. During your consultation, Dr. Hadeed will discuss the various surgical procedures used to
perform facial feminization with you and then formulate the ideal surgical treatment plan based on your
anatomy and specific aesthetic goals. Facial feminization surgery can produce excellent results in
transwomen and create a more feminine contour to the face.
The surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, although depending
on the procedures performed it may be necessary for you to stay overnight in the hospital. You may be
asked to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help with swelling and maintain the contours
and shape of your face. Strenuous activity is generally not permitted for six weeks after surgery, but most
patients are back to work within two or three weeks. In every case, Dr. Hadeed brings artistic precision
when contouring the face of his patients to achieve long-lasting results.
To learn more about FFS, please request a complimentary consultation with Dr. Hadeed or call our office at 310.970.2940 to schedule your appointment.
FAQs
Will insurance cover facial feminization surgery?
Most insurance companies will not cover facial feminization surgery; however, every insurance policy is
different and there may be exceptions for gender affirmation procedures.
Are there financing options to help pay for facial feminization surgery?
There are many medical finance companies we use that can help you pay for facial feminization surgery.
How do I know which facial feminization surgery procedures are best for me?
During your consultation Dr. Hadeed will discuss some of the different techniques used for facial
feminization surgery. After examining you and assessing your goals he will then recommend the best
option for you.
Do I need to be on estrogen for one year prior to surgery?
There is no requirement from the WPATH Standards of Care for you to be on testosterone prior to
surgery. However, you may notice some changes to the appearance of the face from being on estrogen.
Do I need to stop taking estrogen prior to facial feminization surgery?
There is no general consensus regarding the timing of when to stop estrogen prior to MTF breast
augmentation. Dr. Hadeed generally recommends stopping your estrogen four weeks prior to MTF breast
augmentation.
Do I need a letter of recommendation from a therapist prior to having facial feminization surgery?
A letter of recommendation is not required to have facial feminization surgery.
Can I still have facial feminization surgery if I am a smoker?
Dr. Hadeed will not perform facial feminization surgery on anybody who is actively smoking, and
requires you to be completely nicotine-free for at least four weeks prior to surgery in order to maximize
the chances of wound healing and minimize the risk of infection.
How long does facial feminization surgery take?
Facial feminization surgery can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours depending on the extent of surgery and
the number of procedures desired. Sometimes, facial feminization surgery may need to be staged.
Do I need to spend the night in the hospital after facial feminization surgery?
Most facial feminization surgery procedures are performed as an outpatient procedure. However, if
extensive work is required, you may be asked to spend one night in either the hospital or a surgical
aftercare facility.
When can I go back to work after facial feminization surgery?
At a minimum, most people can expect to take two weeks off work. If your job is more physically
demanding, you may need to take three weeks or longer off work.
When can I start exercising after facial feminization surgery?
Dr. Hadeed recommends walking as much as possible immediately after facial feminization surgery. You
are restricted from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for the first two weeks after surgery. You can
usually resume exercising six weeks after surgery.
Will I need to wear any garments after facial feminization surgery?
You may need to wear a facial compression garment after certain facial feminization procedures to
minimize swelling and hold the facial soft tissues in place to support the contour.
