Facial feminization surgery encompasses a broad range of procedures to change masculine facial features into feminine features.
One of the key procedures in facial feminization is correcting the male prominence of the brow. Dr. Murphy commonly re-contours the forehead and repositions the brow and hairline together through a single incision. This incision is made along the hairline and extends to the temporal scalp, where the brow is recontoured through bone adjustments. Tissues within the brow are resituated to resemble a feminine complexion.
Since every patient will have a unique structuring of their lower face– prominence and width of the chin and mandibular borders, etc.– the approach to this procedure will vary from person to person. LSU Plastic Surgery performs this procedure through small incisions inside the mouth with a possible incision underneath the chin, depending on your facial structure. In some cases, a chin implant may be necessary. The extent and approach of your procedure will be determined during your assessment.
The definition of the Adam’s Apple is one of the most common indications of masculinity. LSU Plastic Surgery performs the tracheal shave by removing excess cartilage from the surface of the larynx (the voice box) to realize a more feminine outline of the central neck. A tracheal shave can be performed in conjunction with a neck lift or facelift.
During an earlobe reduction, the size and shape of the earlobe are reduced for greater feminization. LSU Plastic Surgery can also reduce the size of the entire ear, if necessary. Tiny incisions are used to help achieve a discrete removal of excess tissue.
Is your nose too large or prominent? Does it take away from the finer features of the rest of your face? Through either a closed or open approach, LSU Plastic Surgery can reduce the width or prominence of your nose, giving you a more petite and feminine nasal contour. The final plan is achieved through a personal imaging conference with our plastic surgeons.
Facial balance is one of the keys to a more feminine appearance. Adding cheek implants can lead to a more “heart-shaped” facial profile. Cheek implants are frequently combined with mandibular narrowing to more dramatically achieve the desired result. The procedure is performed through small incisions inside the mouth, leaving you the only one to ever know where your procedure started.
Lip enhancement is a key feature to a more feminine look. A long upper lip can make you look older and more masculine. The procedure is performed along the base of the nose in a well-hidden area. Adding volume to your lip in a subtle fashion can enhance the effect. This can be accomplished with either dermal fillers or with a lip implant, the latter a more permanent solution. These lip augmentation options can be performed alone under local anesthesia or simultaneously as a more involved facial feminization procedure.
Each person will have a customized procedure that best accommodates their physicality and goals. The suitable facial feminization procedural approach right for you will be determined during your consultation and assessment with LSU Plastic Surgery.
and the scarring that will result. Your surgeon also will try to get insurance coverage for the procedure if you have insurance and your policy covers gender affirming surgery. You will be given information about the cost of the procedure if insurance coverage is not available to you.