The Process of Facial Feminization
Sexual reassignment affects many areas of the body. One of the major areas of focus is the face. Facial feminization surgery (FFS) was developed to soften and make certain subtle changes to a male’s face and enable them to feel more comfortable with themselves and their new life as a female.
Female feminization is a process that many male-to-female (MTF) transexuals undergo. If they feel they need extensive work, it can be a lengthy process of repeated surgeries and recovery periods. However, if the work they want done is relatively minor and uncomplicated, the procedures can often be performed at the same time.
Safety and Recovery Time
Generally, safety and the recovery time required for your planned procedures are the two main concerns. Having multiple procedures performed at the same time can be safe if you’re in good general health.
Having multiple procedures performed together can shorten the recovery time, depending on the individual procedures. However, some doctors recommend splitting the procedures into two or more surgeries to give your face more time to heal between the surgeries.
Risks factors of Facial Feminization Surgery
Every type of surgery has an element of risk to it. Part of the surgeon’s job is to minimize the risks as much as possible. The risks of facial feminization procedures include:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Edema (fluid buildup and swelling)
- Incisions that don’t heal properly
- Reaction to the anesthesia
- Numbness in areas of your face
Female Feminization Procedures
Here is a list and description of the regularly performed surgical procedures involved in facial feminization. The procedures include:
- Lowering the hairline
- Decreasing the eyebrow ridge
- Thinning the nose
- Creating fuller cheeks and lips
- Creating a smaller and rounder chin and jawline
- Reducing the Adam’s apple
Typically, you’ll consult with your surgeon when planning your surgery. They can recommend an order for the procedures that reduces the chance of complications and may also reduce surgical time.
How Do I Prepare for FFS?
There are several steps before you undergo your FFS. The first step is to get a medical evaluation and have lab tests to ensure there are no underlying health complications that will pose a danger. Your doctor will also look at any medications you’re currently on and may adjust the dosages of some of them. You’ll be asked to stop smoking for a period before the surgery and be asked to avoid aspirin and any anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements that can increase bleeding.
How Long Does FFS Take?
It depends entirely on the amount of procedures you have scheduled. FFS can take up to 8 or 9 hours. This is why the consultation with your surgeon and proper preparation before the surgery are so important. By following the recommendations of your surgeon, you can help reduce your risks during a single or multiple-procedure surgery.
How Long is the Recovery Period?
Your doctor may be able to remove the nonabsorbable stitches approximately a week after the surgery or replace them with absorbable stitches. Your complete recovery time depends on several factors, including the number of procedures you’ve had performed, your general health and your capacity for recovery.
Most people have some level of discomfort for the first four or five days after FFS surgery. You should be able to slowly resume your daily activities, and you may notice the pain diminishing over the first few days. Your doctor will provide you with recommendations on returning to work and when you can resume strenuous exercise. You may have restrictions on heavy lifting and straining to prevent leakage of your sutures.
Your swelling and bruising will most likely heal within the first six weeks and your face will continue to heal over the coming months. Most people notice their face has completely healed after a year or less.
Have Facial Feminization Surgery Performed at Nirunda Clinic
Nirunda Asthetic Clinic in Bangkok specializes in facial feminization surgery (FFS), as well as a variety of female-to-male transitional (FTM) procedures. If you’re interested in finding out more about what FFS could provide for you, contact us to schedule a consultation today.
