Facial surgery, in the context of gender-affirming care, refers to a range of procedures that refine the structure and features of the face to better reflect a person’s identity. For many in the transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse community, these procedures can be a meaningful part of feeling more at home in one’s own reflection — and they deserve to be approached with care, expertise, and respect.
At Transgender Surgery Institute of Southern California, our focus is on top surgery and chest-related gender-affirming procedures. Facial surgery is not performed in-house. We share this information because we know many of the patients we meet are navigating the full landscape of gender-affirming care, and we believe access to clear, honest information is part of supporting that journey.
Understanding the Options
Facial gender-affirming surgery is not a single procedure. It encompasses a range of surgical approaches tailored to each individual’s goals, anatomy, and identity. Procedures are most often grouped into feminizing and masculinizing categories, though many patients pursue a personalized combination that doesn’t fit neatly into either.
Facial Feminization Procedures (MTF / Transfeminine)
For individuals seeking softer, more traditionally feminine facial features, available procedures may include:
- Forehead contouring and brow lift — reshaping the brow bone and hairline to create a softer upper face.
- Rhinoplasty — refining the size, shape, or proportions of the nose.
- Cheek augmentation — enhancing midface fullness through implants or fat grafting.
- Lip lift and lip augmentation — shortening the space between the nose and upper lip or adding volume.
- Jaw and chin contouring — reducing the angle of the jaw or reshaping the chin for a more tapered lower face.
- Tracheal shave — reducing the prominence of the Adam’s apple.
Facial Masculinization Procedures (FTM / Transmasculine)
For individuals seeking stronger, more traditionally masculine facial features, available procedures may include:
- Forehead and brow augmentation — building up the brow ridge for a more defined upper face.
- Jaw augmentation — widening or squaring the jawline through implants or fat grafting.
- Chin augmentation — adding projection or width to the chin.
- Cheek and midface contouring — reshaping the cheeks to support a more angular appearance.
- Rhinoplasty — refining the nose to complement other masculinizing changes.
A Thoughtful Referral Relationship
Because facial gender-affirming surgery is a highly specialized field requiring dedicated surgical expertise, we maintain a relationship with affiliated specialists who concentrate their practice in this area. Among them is Align Surgical Associates (opens in new tab), a respected group known for their work in gender-affirming facial and genital surgery.
When patients in our care express interest in facial surgery, we are able to point them toward Align Surgical and other trusted resources so each person can explore options that fit their needs. We view this as part of a broader commitment to compassionate, holistic care — one that honors the full scope of each patient’s journey while remaining grounded in the areas where our own expertise lies.
What to Consider
Choosing a facial surgery path is a significant decision, and timing looks different for everyone. Many individuals find it helpful to:
- Speak with a knowledgeable gender-affirming care provider about goals and expectations.
- Connect with mental health professionals familiar with gender-affirming surgical pathways.
- Research surgeons whose techniques and outcomes align with personal priorities.
- Understand insurance coverage, recovery timelines, and post-surgical care needs.
Facial surgery is a deeply personal experience, and there is no single right approach. Whether you are early in your exploration or actively planning, we hope this page offers a calm and clear starting point as you move forward.