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Facial Feminization Surgery

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Oculofacial, Orbital, and Lacrimal Surgery

Abstract

Facial plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures performed on the transgender patient to feminize the facial skeleton and soft tissue are collectively referred to as the field of facial feminization surgery. Many surgeons are unfamiliar with the evaluation and considerations that are critical to a successful gender affirmation process. This chapter first reviews the key differences in facial analysis between the biologic male and female facial structure and an evidenced-based approach using literature suggesting that forehead modification results in the highest recognition of a stereotypically feminine appearance, as compared to changes to the middle or lower thirds of the face. The range of procedures and surgical techniques available for facial feminization surgery, with a focus on the upper face, will be discussed. As with any facial procedure, proper preoperative patient counseling, collaboration with other providers, and management of expectations are imperative for successful outcomes.

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Correspondence to Cat Nguyen Burkat .

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Burkat, C.N., Chaiet, S.R. (2019). Facial Feminization Surgery. In: Cohen, A., Burkat, C. (eds) Oculofacial, Orbital, and Lacrimal Surgery. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-14092-2_37

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-14092-2_37

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-14090-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-14092-2

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