Facial feminization surgery is a collection of carefully planned procedures that soften masculine skeletal and soft-tissue features of the face, bringing your outward appearance into harmony with who you are. For many trans women and transfeminine individuals, FFS is the single most impactful step in their transition — because the face is what the world sees first.
What Is Facial Feminization Surgery?
Facial feminization surgery encompasses a tailored combination of bony and soft-tissue procedures designed to reduce or reshape features that are typically perceived as masculine. The forehead, brow ridge, nose, jawline, chin, and hairline are the most common areas addressed, though lip augmentation, cheek enhancement, and tracheal shave may also be included in the same surgical session.
Because every face is unique, there is no single "standard" FFS. Your surgical plan is built around a thorough analysis of your facial proportions, bone structure, soft-tissue volume, and personal goals. Our partner surgeons use advanced 3D imaging and cephalometric measurements to design a bespoke combination that delivers natural, balanced feminization while preserving your individuality.
Common Concerns Facial Feminization Surgery Can Address
- Prominent brow ridge or flat forehead creating a masculine profile
- Strong jawline or square chin that feels incongruent with your identity
- A nose that appears too broad, long, or angular for your desired appearance
- High or receding hairline that contributes to a masculine facial frame
Are You a Good Candidate?
- Transgender women or transfeminine individuals seeking facial harmony with their gender identity
- In good general health with no uncontrolled medical conditions
- Have realistic expectations and a clear understanding of what FFS can achieve
- Non-smoker or willing to stop smoking at least four weeks before surgery
Techniques & Options
FFS is not a single operation but a carefully sequenced combination of procedures performed during one or more surgical sessions. Each region of the face, from forehead and brows to nose, midface, jaw, and chin, is assessed individually, and only the procedures that will make a meaningful difference to your overall feminization are recommended. The goal is always a natural, harmonious result rather than a dramatic transformation of any single feature.
The most commonly included procedures are:
Forehead & Brow Bone Recontouring
The brow ridge is often the most significant marker of a masculine face. Type III forehead reconstruction involves removing the anterior wall of the frontal sinus, reshaping the bone, and resetting it in a recessed position. This creates a smooth, rounded forehead and lifts the brow line to a more feminine position.
- Eliminates the prominent brow ridge that shadows the eyes
- Creates a smooth, rounded forehead contour
- Opens the eye area for a softer, more approachable appearance
- Can be combined with hairline advancement in the same session
Jaw & Chin Recontouring
Mandibular angle reduction narrows the lower face by shaving or burring the flared jaw angles through intraoral incisions. Genioplasty reshapes the chin by cutting and repositioning the bone to reduce width, height, or projection. Both procedures create a softer, more tapered lower face with a V-shaped contour.
- Transforms a square or wide lower face into an oval or heart-shaped silhouette
- Incisions are placed inside the mouth leaving no visible scars
- Chin can be narrowed, shortened, and set back simultaneously
- Results are permanent as bone is physically reshaped
Feminizing Rhinoplasty
Gender-affirming rhinoplasty refines the nose within the context of the feminized face. Techniques may include reducing the dorsal hump, narrowing the bridge, refining and rotating the tip upward, and adjusting nostril width. The goal is a nose that complements the newly softened forehead, cheeks, and chin.
- Softens a prominent or angular nasal profile
- Tip rotation and refinement for a more delicate appearance
- Bridge narrowing for improved facial proportion
- Performed alongside other FFS components for cohesive results
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Significant swelling and bruising concentrate around the eyes, forehead, and jaw during the first 48–72 hours. Your face will feel tight, and patches of numbness are typical wherever bone work was performed. You will rest in hospital with IV pain relief, head elevation, and ice therapy. Your care coordinator will check on you daily.
Days 4–7
Bruising begins to yellow and swelling starts to shift downward. You will be discharged to your hotel or recovery accommodation with oral pain medication and detailed aftercare instructions. Sutures or staples may be removed from certain areas. Soft foods are recommended if jaw work was performed.
Weeks 2–4
Most bruising has resolved and swelling reduces significantly, though you may still notice puffiness — especially first thing in the morning. You can resume light activities and many patients feel comfortable going out in public. Nasal splints and any remaining sutures are removed during this period.
Months 2–6
Residual swelling gradually dissipates and the feminized contours become clearly defined. Numbness in the forehead and chin resolves over several months. Most patients recognise the full outcome by six months, with subtle refinement continuing for up to a year.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
FFS involves operating on bone and soft tissue across multiple facial regions, and as with all surgery under general anaesthesia, it carries inherent risks. Because the procedures are performed by experienced craniofacial and plastic surgeons in accredited hospital facilities, serious complications are uncommon.
- Prolonged swelling or bruising
- Temporary or persistent numbness in the forehead, cheeks, or chin
- Asymmetry requiring minor revision
- Infection at incision sites (rare)
- Hardware complications if plates or screws are used
- Hair loss along the incision line (temporary in most cases)
A comprehensive facial assessment and full medical history review take place before your surgical plan is confirmed. Every potential risk specific to the procedures you are having is discussed in detail, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and feel fully informed before proceeding.
How Much Does Facial Feminization Surgery Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Facial Feminization Surgery
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Facial Feminization Surgery
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDGender Affirmation Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 25, 2026
Medical References
- Capitán L et al. Facial Feminization Surgery: The Forehead — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2014)
- Morrison SD et al. Facial Feminization: Systematic Review of the Literature — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2016)
- WPATH Standards of Care Version 8 (2022)
- Ainsworth TA, Spiegel JH. Quality of Life of Individuals with and without Facial Feminization Surgery — Quality of Life Research (2010)
- Bellinga RJ et al. Rhinoplasty in Female-to-Male Transsexuals: Technical Aspects — Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (2017)
Medical disclaimer: Content on this site is provided for informational purposes and should not be treated as medical advice. Outcomes, timelines, and eligibility differ from person to person. Speak with an experienced gender-affirming surgeon before proceeding with any procedure.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
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