Facial masculinization surgery (FMS) is a set of procedures designed to alter facial characteristics to achieve a more masculine appearance. This comprehensive approach involves various surgical techniques tailored to each individual’s facial anatomy and desired outcomes. FMS is primarily sought by individuals desiring more masculine facial features or transgender men.
Who is a Candidate?
Candidates for facial masculinization surgery typically include individuals who are seeking to enhance facial structures such as the forehead, jawline, chin, and nose to achieve a more traditionally masculine, angular appearance. This includes individuals who identify as male but were assigned female at birth and wish to align their facial features with their gender identity.
Candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery, and be psychologically prepared for the changes in facial appearance.
Common Procedures in Facial Masculinization Surgery
- Forehead Contouring or Augmentation: This may involve brow bone reduction (browplasty) to reduce the prominence of the brow ridge and create a smoother forehead contour. However, some individuals desire a stronger brow bone for a more masculine appearance. This can be achieved with a customized implant with biocompatible materials.
- Jaw Contouring: Procedures such as mandibular angle or jawline augmentation can be performed with either fillers or customized implant to enhance the width and angularity of the jawline.
- Chin Augmentation: Genioplasty or chin implants may be used to increase the projection and definition of the chin.
- Rhinoplasty: Nose reshaping surgery can be performed to achieve a more masculine nasal profile with a stronger bridge and more defined tip.
- Cheek Augmentation:Cheek implants or fat grafting can be used to enhance the cheekbones and achieve a more angular facial structure.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
General anesthesia is typically used to ensure comfort throughout the surgical procedures. Incision placement varies depending on the specific procedure, often made in inconspicuous locations or inside the mouth for intraoral approaches.
Depending on the procedures, you will have a compression dressing and post-operative recovery involves managing swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications and cold compresses.
Long-Term Results
The final results of facial masculinization surgery can take several weeks to months to fully manifest as swelling subsides and tissues settle. With proper care and adherence to post-operative instructions, the results are typically long-lasting, enhancing facial masculinization and contributing to improved self-esteem and gender affirmation.
Before undergoing facial masculinization surgery, it is crucial to consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon experienced in transgender surgery. They will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and provide personalized recommendations to achieve your desired facial masculinization while ensuring your safety and well-being throughout the process. Understanding the procedures, recovery process, and potential risks associated with FMS will help you make an informed decision about pursuing this transformative journey.
