This family of plastic surgery procedures change the look and shape of your face. You’ll consult with your surgeon to discuss the options, but they can include contouring of the facial bones, lip and eyelid surgery, chin sculpting, hairline relocation, a facelift, a nose job, reshaping your thyroid cartilage, and other procedures. Many people like to take hormones for a while first, because they can affect the texture of the skin and structure of the face.
Risks and complications can vary, depending on the nature of the procedure(s) performed, but can include scarring, infection, uneven facial features, and nerve damage. Some people space out facial surgeries over months or years, while others may try to book several at once.
People often refer to “feminization” or “masculinization” surgery but these are misnomers; people of all kinds of genders have all kinds of faces! When considering facial surgery, think about the outcome you want and find clear examples to share with a surgeon. Take advantage of forums and portfolios to locate surgeons with reputations and results that feel good for you, and consider being open to travel to open up more options.
And if you pick up bad vibes in your preoperative consultation or feel like your surgeon isn’t on the same page…there are plenty of fish in the sea and you deserve a provider who’s on the same page with you! Your face is the most visible part of you and you want to take your time to make sure you’re confident and happy with a surgeon so you get the best results.
This section is part of a larger piece, Trans Summer School: The Wide World of Surgical Transition.
