Transgender patients transitioning from female to male often experience significant challenges during this process, one of them being the face. Fortunately, our triple board-certified surgeon, Dr. Nesiba, is highly experienced in gender-affirming procedures that give people a more masculine appearance. We care deeply about our patients and pride ourselves on listening to their needs and desires before proceeding with surgical treatments. Our professional team is here to make people more comfortable and align their appearance with who they are.
Facial masculinization refers to a range of surgical and minimally invasive procedures that enhance male facial features in transgender men. The goal is to help patients look more masculine by altering the bone and soft tissue structures in the face. Common areas addressed include the forehead, jaw, chin, and cheeks to create a more angular, prominent appearance. Facial masculinization surgery requires 3-8 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Patients usually take 1-2 weeks off work to recover.
Preparation for masculinization surgery typically begins with an initial consultation. Dr. Nesiba evaluates the patient’s facial structure and anatomy to determine the appropriate procedures for achieving the desired changes. He also discusses the details of the surgery, including the techniques to be used, the sequence of operations, and incision placement. Other important aspects covered are recovery and aftercare.
The patient is screened physically and psychologically to check their candidacy for surgery and readiness to undergo the procedures. Dr. Nesiba works closely with an interprofessional team that coordinates hormone therapy and the transition process. Careful preparation lays the groundwork for the best approach and surgical outcome.
A brow lift, tailored for facial masculinization, adjusts the position and shape of the eyebrows, making them lower and straighter. This change accentuates the brow ridge, giving a more angular look associated with male facial characteristics. It also enhances the definition of the forehead, further emphasizing a masculine profile.
Cheek augmentation increases the cheekbones to create a more chiseled look. This is often done with implants or fillers to achieve a sculpted appearance. Prominent cheekbones are usually associated with masculine aesthetics, giving the face a firmer contour.
Dr. Nesiba can reshape the chin and jaw to create a broader, more squared-off look. This procedure may involve implants, shaving, or bone reshaping to create a defined, angular jawline.
Forehead recontouring, also known as brow bone augmentation, enhances the prominence of the brow ridge to make the forehead more masculine. This may involve adding implants or reshaping existing bone to sculpt the desired appearance. The goal is to create a pronounced brow and a more angular forehead.
These procedures alter the lips to achieve a traditionally male look, often by subtly reducing lip fullness or lifting the upper lip. The procedure can be customized to bring the lip structure in harmony with other facial features, creating a balanced profile without excessive volume.
Masculinization rhinoplasty reshapes the nose, forming a wider or straighter bridge and a more pronounced tip. This procedure helps harmonize the nose with other male facial features.
Injectables like Botox and Juvederm can enhance masculine traits without surgery. Botox may adjust eyebrow positioning and soften specific muscles, while dermal fillers like Juvederm might add definition to the jaw, cheeks, or chin. These non-surgical options allow for refinements without incisions and recovery.
On the first day after facial masculinization surgery, patients can expect swelling and bruising around the areas operated on. Pain and discomfort are common during this time. Patients must follow Dr. Nesiba’s orders for wound care, medication, and activity restrictions. Cold compresses may provide relief from acute symptoms.
During the first week of recovery, swelling and bruising continue to improve. Patients might experience numbness and tingling, which usually resolves over time. Pain medication can help manage any ongoing discomfort. Patients should increase physical activity gradually but avoid strenuous exercise. It is best to follow a soft-food diet to avoid straining facial tissues.
Swelling continues to decrease during this time, and bruising also fades. Numbness may persist in some areas. Patients usually start returning to their normal activities and return to work if it does not involve physical exertion. No contact sports are allowed in this period. Dr. Nesiba schedules follow-up appointments to remove stitches and monitor healing.
Most swelling resolves within 6 weeks, but some subtle symptoms may remain for a few months. Numbness also continues improving. Physical activity can eventually return fully without restrictions after 6 weeks. Final cosmetic results might take up to a year to emerge fully. It is crucial to wait until facial tissues heal completely.
Individuals With Gender Dysphoria Seeking Male Features
Candidates for facial masculinization often include individuals with gender dysphoria who aim to align their facial features more closely with their identity. Such patients may feel that their current physical characteristics don’t reflect their inner nature accurately. Gender affirmation surgery can provide an avenue to achieve a more traditionally masculine appearance, supporting their transition journey.
Individuals With Feminine
Facial Features
Individuals With Non-Binary or Gender-Fluid Identities
Individuals Seeking to Correct Facial Imbalances
Facial masculinization is one of the most crucial surgical procedures for individuals undergoing a female-to-male transition. Many patients find that this treatment dramatically improves their mental health and quality of life. Here are the main benefits of our gender-affirming surgery:
The cost of facial masculinization in Denver ranges from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the cosmetic procedures involved. Common surgeries include chin, jawline, and brow bone augmentation. Prices vary based on the surgeon’s fees, the extent of the procedures, and the cost of any implants or materials used. Most patients pay between $15,000 and $25,000 for customized facial masculinization operations in Denver. However, prices may exceed $50,000 for extensive surgeries involving the entire face. Patients should consult Dr. Nesiba to get accurate quotes for their desired procedures.
Our triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dr. John R. Nesiba, has extensive experience in transgender operations. His primary focus during residency training was facial reconstruction and jaw repositioning procedures. This expertise landed him a selective American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery fellowship at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates. His deft touch and depth of experience mean that patients are in good hands when they trust Flourish Surgical Arts for their facial feminization or masculinization.
Whether you are a transgender patient looking to align your appearance with your true self or a cisgender male who wants to improve facial contours, Flourish Surgical Arts provides a warm and safe environment for inspiring transformations in our state-of-the-art facility. We offer consultations by appointment only.