Since your face is such a visible and representative part of who you are, it’s extremely important to select the right facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon. Finding a facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon who fits your goals, preferences, and outlook can be a challenge – and time-consuming. But it’s worth it to find a facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon who will achieve your desired results and make your journey a pleasant one. As you prepare for your consultation, here are some important questions to bring to determine whether Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a good fit for you.
What are your certifications and training?
Certifications are one of the most reliable ways of ensuring a facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon has the skill and experience to keep you safe during and after surgery. Dr. Deschamps-Braly is not only a board-certified plastic surgeon but is also a craniofacial surgeon with specialization in orthognathic surgery and one of the most sought-after facial gender confirmation surgeons in the world.
While many plastic surgeons complete medical school and undergo residency and fellowship training in plastic surgery before practicing, Dr. Deschamps-Braly completed an accredited children’s craniofacial surgery fellowship, craniomaxillofacial and orthognathic fellowship, and direct mentorship among some of the leading craniofacial and aesthetic plastic surgeons in Europe and around the world. In 2012, Dr. Deschamps-Braly established a private practice continuing the legacy of Dr. Douglas Ousterhout, a pioneer in facial gender confirmation and one of the first surgeons to develop facial feminization. There, he studied under Dr. Ousterhout before becoming the foremost facial feminization and facial masculinization surgeon in the country.
Because plastic surgery can cover a broad spectrum of procedures, it’s always best to look for a designated craniofacial and maxillofacial surgeon with extensive training in gender confirmation surgery such as Dr. Deschamps-Braly.
What’s your approach toward facial feminization or facial masculinization?
Each facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon will have a different approach toward gender-affirming surgery, but it may not align with your goals. Dr. Deschamps-Braly’s approach toward facial feminization and facial masculinization is to achieve a more feminine or masculine look, whereas many facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeons tend to focus on aesthetic beauty. Although terms like “beauty,” “masculinity,” and “femininity” may seem difficult to quantify, it’s important to seek out a facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon who understands the difference, no matter how abstract.
Because of Dr. Deschamps-Braly’s extensive training in craniofacial and maxillofacial surgery, he has a deep understanding of the differences in facial gender characteristics. In his book Facial Feminization Surgery: The Journey to Gender Affirmation, co-authored with Dr. Ousterhout, he details each area of the face and his approach using facial feminization. These characteristics include more than just bone structure, and can also include characteristics like hairline, brow position, and nose shape – and these characteristics shouldn’t be ignored during facial feminization or facial masculinization. Although beauty may be important to you, you likely also want to appear more feminine or masculine. With a deep understanding of both concepts, Dr. Deschamps-Braly can help you achieve your preferred gender presentation so you look and feel like your truest self.
How do you protect patient identity?
Protecting patient identity is more important than ever when it comes to transitioning patients. You should never feel uncomfortable with a facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon or feel pressured to take before-and-after photos. Dr. Deschamps-Braly prioritizes patient privacy, understanding that helping you achieve your truest self is the goal, and approaches transitioning patients accordingly. Although results are important, your facial feminization journey should be uplifting and comfortable, not just another case study. Instead, Dr. Deschamps-Braly prefers to let his experience speak for itself, showcasing before-and-afters only in his publication Facial Feminization Surgery: The Journey to Gender Affirmation.
Schedule a Consultation
Finding the right facial feminization or facial masculinization surgeon can be a long but worthwhile process. Dr. Deschamps-Braly is one of the foremostly trained craniofacial and maxillofacial surgeons in the country and can help you find new confidence at our renowned San Francisco clinic. Contact us to schedule an appointment by calling (415) 877-6585 or filling out our online contact form.
Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery, orthognathic (jaw) surgery, and craniofacial surgery for adults and children. He is also one of the world’s foremost leaders and innovators in facial gender confirmation surgery.
