Facial Masculinization Surgery (FMS)
Facial masculinization surgery, or FMS, is a set of surgical procedures designed to transform the feminine
features of the face to give it a more masculine appearance. Facial masculinization surgery involves a
range of aesthetic and reconstructive surgical procedures that work to reshape feminine facial features by
surgical manipulation of the bone and soft tissues of the face to create a masculine appearance. There are
many surgical options used to perform facial masculinization surgery, including:
- Forehead lengthening and augmentation
- Blepharoplasty (upper and lower eyelids)
- Rhinoplasty
- Cheek augmentation
- Chin contouring
- Jaw contouring
- Tracheal enhancement (Adam’s apple enlargement)
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 masculinization with you and then formulate the ideal surgical treatment plan based on
your anatomy and specific aesthetic goals. Facial masculinization surgery can produce excellent results
in transmen and create a more masculine 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 FMS, 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 masculinization surgery?
Most insurance companies will not cover facial masculinization 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 masculinization surgery?
There are many medical finance companies we use that can help you pay for facial masculinization
surgery.
How do I know which facial masculinization surgery procedures are best for me?
During your consultation Dr. Hadeed will discuss some of the different techniques used for facial
masculinization surgery. After examining you and assessing your goals he will then recommend the best
option for you.
Do I need to be on testosterone 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
testosterone.
Do I need a letter of recommendation from a therapist prior to having facial masculinization
surgery?
A letter of recommendation is not required to have facial masculinization surgery.
Can I still have facial masculinization surgery if I am a smoker?
Dr. Hadeed will not perform facial masculinization 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 masculinization surgery take?
On average, facial masculinization surgery takes between 3 to 10 hours depending on the extent of the
work. Sometimes, facial masculinization surgery may need to be staged.
Do I need to spend the night in the hospital after facial masculinization surgery?
Most facial masculinization procedures are performed as an outpatient procedure. However, depending
on how much work is involved, you may need to spend overnight in a hospital or surgical aftercare
facility.
When can I go back to work after facial masculinization 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 masculinization surgery?
Dr. Hadeed recommends walking as much as possible immediately after facial masculinization. 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 masculinization surgery?
You may need to wear a facial compression garment after certain facial masculinization procedures to
minimize swelling and hold the soft tissues in place to support the contour.
