When it comes to achieving smoother, more hydrated, and radiant skin, not all treatments are created equal. Skinvive by Juvéderm offers a unique, FDA-approved hyaluronic acid microdroplet injectable that works beneath the surface to enhance skin quality without altering facial volume. At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we offer advanced skin injection procedures to help patients achieve smoother skin, boost skin hydration, and enjoy a naturally refreshed appearance.

What is Skinvive by Juvederm?

Skinvive by Juvéderm is the first and only FDA-approved hyaluronic acid microdroplet injectable designed to enhance facial skin smoothness, improve skin hydration, and enhance overall skin quality. Unlike traditional dermal filler injections that add volume, Skinvive focuses on enhancing skin texture from within.

As with any injectable gel, it’s essential to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have had multiple severe allergies, a known sensitivity to gram-positive bacterial proteins, a history of previous allergic reactions, or a history of skin problems such as pigmentation disorders or excessive scarring.

Treatment Areas

Skinvive by Juvéderm is specifically formulated for the midface, enhancing the smoothness of the cheek and facial skin. It is ideal for:

• Enhancing cheek skin smoothness for a more youthful, refreshed appearance
• Improve facial skin smoothness and texture comprehensively
• Addressing dryness or dullness for improved skin hydration
• Softening the appearance of fine lines caused by aging or environmental factors
• Refreshing skin affected by extensive sun exposure or lifestyle-related changes

While Skinvive is not intended to treat severe forehead lines, skin sores or active skin infections, or deep wrinkles, it can still be an important part of a broader facial injectables plan. Many patients choose to combine Skinvive with other hyaluronic acid fillers, neuromodulator treatments, or laser treatment to improve skin smoothness while encouraging the body’s immune response.

What Makes Skinvive by Juvederm the Optimal Treatment

Patients treated with Skinvive often notice:

• Improved cheek skin smoothness and overall facial skin smoothness
• Increased skin hydration for a healthy glow
• Subtle, natural-looking results without altering facial volume
• Minimal downtime compared to surgical options
• Long-lasting improvement in skin quality for up to six months

The Skinvive by Juvederm Treatment Process at Deschamps Braly Clinic

Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Deschamps will review your medical history, including any severe allergies, previous allergic reactions, or known adverse events, to ensure treatment will not make skin problems worse. We will discuss your goals, assess your treatment area, and determine if Skinvive is right for you.

Procedure

The Skinvive procedure involves precise facial injections of a hyaluronic acid microdroplet directly into the treatment site. To reduce pain and discomfort, a numbing agent may be used; the process typically takes less than 30 minutes.

Recovery

Most patients experience only temporary redness, mild swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. To promote healing and minimize risk, minimize strenuous exercise, alcoholic beverages, and avoid planning laser treatment or other cosmetic treatments for at least 24 hours.

Why Choose Deschamps Braly Clinic for Skinvive by Juvederm?

At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, our team brings world-class expertise in facial injectables and aesthetic medicine. Our approach combines medical precision with an artistic eye, ensuring your skin looks rejuvenated, not overdone. We understand that each patient’s skin is unique, and we customize every treatment to achieve the most natural and safe outcome possible; contact Deschamps-Braly Clinic to schedule your consultation.

Double jaw surgery, also known as bi-maxillary osteotomy, is a life-changing procedure that realigns the upper and lower jaws to improve facial appearance, oral health, and function. Performed by highly trained surgeons like craniofacial surgeon Dr. Deschamps-Braly, this advanced surgical technique can address everything from chronic jaw pain and jaw misalignment to obstructive sleep apnea and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

What Is Double Jaw Surgery?

Double jaw surgery corrects irregularities in both the upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible), bringing them into proper alignment. The procedure typically includes a maxillary osteotomy (to reposition the upper jaw) and a mandibular osteotomy (to adjust the lower jaw). It may also involve chin surgery to enhance symmetry of the chin bone and front teeth alignment; the goal is to restore healthy jaw function, improve breathing, and enhance facial harmony.

Who Needs Double Jaw Surgery?

Patients who require both upper jaw surgery and lower jaw surgery often suffer from issues that cannot be corrected with braces alone. This type of corrective jaw surgery is often recommended for individuals with:

• Jaw misalignment (e.g., open bite, protruding jaw, or underbite)
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Chronic jaw joint pain or TMJ disorders
• Facial asymmetry or trauma
• Incomplete results from previous orthodontic treatment

Benefits of Double Jaw Surgery

Double jaw surgery provides long-term stability and relief for patients dealing with complex conditions. Beyond cosmetic improvements, the procedure can also offer significant functional benefits:

• Reduced jaw joint pain and improved jaw function
• Easier breathing during sleep, helping to manage sleep apnea
• Enhanced bite and improved chewing
• Better balance between facial bones and teeth
• Relief from chronic jaw pain or strain

What to Expect During the Surgical Process

After a comprehensive consultation, the surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia, usually lasting several hours. Dr. Deschamps-Braly will make incisions inside the mouth to reposition the jawbone, and titanium plates and screws hold the jaws in their new positions. This avoids visible scarring and ensures a more natural result.

Recovery Timeline and Healing

The recovery period varies, but most patients return to normal activities within about six weeks; you’ll start with a soft diet, use ice packs for swelling, and keep your mouth clean with recommended rinses. It’s critical to follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions closely, attend all follow-up appointments, and maintain good oral hygiene to avoid complications. While healing takes several weeks, full recovery time may extend over several months.

Life After Surgery and Long-Term Outcomes

Patients often experience dramatic improvements in breathing, bite function, and facial symmetry. Conditions like sleep apnea and jaw pain typically improve or resolve. With support from a coordinated healthcare team, you’ll achieve lasting results and improved quality of life.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Deschamps-Braly Clinic and the team in San Francisco are known for their expertise in complex jaw surgery and their commitment to customized treatment plans that treat each patient as one unit. We evaluate everything from the teeth, jaw, and chin to the facial structure holistically. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as difficulty chewing, speaking, or chronic pain, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly.

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each patient brings a unique combination of facial bones, soft tissues, and cultural heritage to the surgical table. At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we recognize that effective facial feminization procedures must be precisely tailored to each individual seeking a more feminine appearance aligned with their gender identity.

Understanding Ethnic Diversity in FFS

Facial features vary significantly across ethnicities. Forehead contours, eye sockets, nose shape, lip length, and jaw width can all differ based on genetic background. An experienced facial plastic surgery team must understand these differences to plan FFS procedures that enhance femininity while preserving cultural identity.

Why Ethnic Diversity Matters in Facial Feminization Surgery

Each face has a unique underlying bone structure, soft tissue distribution, and aesthetic goals. Using a generic approach risks producing an unnatural result. Instead, surgical procedures at our clinic are customized to honor and enhance individual beauty.

Respecting and Preserving Cultural Identity

For many patients, facial feminization is both a gender affirming surgery and a journey that intersects with cultural identity. Dr. Deschamps-Braly and his team carefully balance feminization surgery with preserving distinctive ethnic traits, helping patients maintain a strong connection to their heritage while achieving a feminine shape and silhouette. 

Customized FFS Procedures

Patients may undergo multiple surgeries during their FFS process depending on their goals and anatomy. Each surgical procedure is designed to harmonize the face with features more typically found in women, while also being mindful of the patient’s ethnic background and age. Common facial surgery options include:

• Hairline Lowering Surgery: Hairline lowering brings the hairline forward to a more feminine position, shortening the forehead and improving facial balance.
• Forehead Contouring and Reduction: Forehead contouring or reconstruction reshapes the bony ridge above the eyes and can involve modifying the frontal sinuses for a smoother look.
• Brow Lift (Browplasty): A brow lift repositions the eyebrows into a feminine position to open the eyes and soften the upper face.
• Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping): Also known as a nose job, nose surgery reduces nostril size and refines nasal contours to match feminine facial features better.
• Lip Lift and Lip Filling: Lip filling or lip lift exposes more upper teeth, while fat grafting or fillers to the upper lip and lower lip create a fuller, youthful look.
• Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): Chin recontouring or chin reduction reshapes the chin bone for a softer profile and oval shape.
• Jaw Contouring (Reshaping/Tapering): Jaw contouring reduces the width and angularity of the lower jaw for a delicate shape. This may involve both bone work and soft tissue procedures.
• Adam’s Apple Reduction (Tracheal Shave): A tracheal shave reduces the thyroid cartilage to flatten the Adam’s apple, improving the neckline and reducing visibility of the vocal cords area.

What to Consider During an FFS Consultation

During your facial feminization surgery (FFS) consultation, it’s important to openly discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. A comprehensive evaluation will include an analysis of your facial bones, soft tissues, skin quality, and unique facial structure.

Patients should understand the risks before the surgery date, including severe pain, scarring, or complications from general anesthesia. Be sure to clarify the recovery timeline, how long before you return to daily activities, and how to care for your face post-surgery to ensure you’re healing properly.

If You’re Considering FFS, Choose Expertise and Care

Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a world-renowned leader in facial gender confirmation surgery. He brings unmatched experience in transgender health, tailoring feminization surgery for all patients, regardless of age, ethnicity, or facial anatomy. If you’re exploring FFS procedures as part of your gender affirming surgery journey, contact Deschamps-Braly Clinic for a compassionate surgical team and inclusive expertise.

Achieve a Stronger, More Structured Jawline

A well-defined jawline can contribute to facial harmony, strength, and confidence, but genetics, aging, and weight fluctuations can impact jawline definition, leading some individuals to seek enhancement options. With expertise in facial aesthetics and gender-affirming procedures, our team at Deschamps-Braly Clinic provides advanced, personalized solutions to create a stronger, more sculpted jawline.

Why Consider Jawline Enhancement?

A strong, angular jawline is often associated with masculinity and facial balance. Some individuals naturally have a softer jaw structure, while others may experience changes over time due to bone loss, loose skin, or fat accumulation. No matter the cause of a softened jawline, surgical and non-surgical options are available to modify its shape, improve its contours, and create a more structured appearance.

Surgical Options for Jawline Masculinization

For those looking for a more defined and enduring change, plastic surgery options provide a way to enhance jawline contouring and strength:

Chin Augmentation

The chin augmentation procedure enhances the lower face by reshaping or enlarging the chin with implants or surgical contouring. By improving the chin’s projection and balance, chin implants support a weak chin and create a proportionate jawline.

Jaw Implants

Jaw augmentation provides a permanent solution for enhancing the width and angularity of the jaw. Custom implants complement your natural facial structure, ensuring a masculine and chiseled jawline.

How to Decide Between Surgical and Non-Surgical Options

Choosing the right approach depends on several factors, including:

• Desired results: Surgery offers permanent, dramatic jaw augmentation, while non-surgical treatments provide subtle yet effective enhancements.
• Recovery time and lifestyle: Non-surgical options require little to no downtime, while surgical procedures involve a healing period.
• Budget and long-term goals: Fillers and injectables require ongoing maintenance, whereas surgery is a one-time investment.

A consultation at Deschamps-Braly Clinic will help determine the best approach based on your facial structure and personal goals.

Non-Surgical Options for a More Masculine Jawline

For those who prefer a minimally invasive approach, non-surgical treatments can help create a sharp jawline without the commitment of surgery. Jennifer Fick, our highly experienced provider, specializes in non-surgical facial contouring treatments, such as:

Dermal Fillers

Injectable fillers can add volume and structure to the jawline by strategically placing the injections at target areas of concern. This option requires no downtime and allows for gradual enhancements over time.

Botox for Masseter Muscle Reduction

Botox relaxes the masseter muscles, helping to create a more sculpted and angular jawline. Freezing muscle contractions also relieves TMJ symptoms and helps with teeth grinding.

Kybella for Fat Reduction

Excess fat under the chin can obscure jawline definition; Kybella is an injectable treatment that dissolves these submental fat cells, leading to a more structured jawline. Multiple sessions may be required, but the reduced double chin is permanent.

Benefits of Jawline Masculinization Treatments

• Improved facial harmony and balance
• A stronger, more defined jawline
• Customizable treatment options tailored to individual goals
• Both temporary and permanent solutions are available

Why Choose Deschamps-Braly for Jawline Enhancement?

Deschamps-Braly Clinic specializes in advanced facial aesthetics and jawline masculinization treatments in San Francisco. Dr. Deschamps-Braly, Jennifer Fick, and the entire team take a personalized approach to ensure natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing results.

With expertise in gender-affirming procedures and facial contouring, we provide safe, effective, and customized treatment plans for every patient. Contact Deschamps-Braly Clinic today to schedule your consultation and explore the best surgical or non-surgical options for jawline enhancement.

The nose is one of the most prominent facial features and significantly contributes to our perception of gender. Feminizing rhinoplasty, a specialized form of cosmetic nose reshaping, has become an essential aspect of facial feminization surgery (FFS). Understanding the intricate details of a feminine vs. masculine nose can help you determine what to expect from this procedure with world-renowned facial gender-affirming surgeon Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly.

Masculine vs. Feminine Nose Shape

There are several distinct differences between typical masculine and feminine nose shapes. Masculine noses have a wider bridge and sharper angular profile with less definition at the nasal tip. Feminine noses tend to be smaller and have a softer, more delicate appearance. This is attributed to a narrower bridge and a more defined, slightly upturned tip. These differences in nose shape contribute significantly to facial symmetry and our perception of gender-specific features. As a board-certified craniofacial surgeon, Dr. Deschamps-Braly has an in-depth understanding of male vs. female anatomy and uses his knowledge to deliver exceptional results.

The Role of Rhinoplasty in Facial Feminization

Feminizing rhinoplasty is a customizable procedure that typically involves reducing the overall size of the nose, refining the nasal tip, narrowing the nasal bridge, and straightening the bridge profile. Functional issues such as a deviated septum or breathing difficulties can also be addressed during the procedure. An open rhinoplasty approach is often used to access and visualize the underlying structures for more dramatic changes. Nasal cartilage and bone are removed and reshaped to create a result that meets each patient’s unique facial features and desired outcome.

Comprehensive Approach to Facial Feminization

Rhinoplasty is often combined with other FFS procedures like forehead contouring, cheek augmentation, lip augmentation, jaw contouring, and more. By simultaneously addressing multiple facial features, patients can achieve a more comprehensive and harmonious feminine appearance.

Who is a Good Candidate for Feminizing Rhinoplasty?

Ideal candidates for feminizing rhinoplasty should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the surgical outcome. They should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery. Patients should also be willing to follow all post-surgical instructions, including the avoidance of strenuous activities and excess sun exposure during the initial healing phase. All surgical procedures begin with a thorough consultation during which Dr. Deschamps-Braly will analyze your facial anatomy, discuss your medical history, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

The Importance of Choosing an Experienced Surgeon

Selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon is essential for a safe and successful feminization rhinoplasty procedure. It is essential to look for a board-certified plastic surgeon who possesses specific expertise in facial feminization surgery and has a deep understanding of the nuances between masculine and feminine facial features. Dr. Deschamps-Braly trained with pioneers in the field of facial feminization surgery and uses advanced techniques to deliver natural-looking results that work harmoniously with each patient’s unique facial features.

Schedule a Consultation

Feminizing rhinoplasty is a transformative procedure that gives individuals the opportunity to align their facial features with their gender identity. By carefully modifying the size, shape, and proportions of the nose, Dr. Deschamps-Braly can create a more feminine appearance while preserving the patient’s individuality. To learn more about rhinoplasty and other facial feminization surgeries, schedule a consultation today at our office in San Francisco, CA.

Facial harmony is vital in gender-affirming care, helping individuals feel more aligned with their identity. While facial gender-affirming surgery (FGAS) is a transformative step for many, some patients seek non-surgical options to refine their appearance while awaiting surgery or as a complement to their surgical results. At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, Jennifer Fick, MSN, FNP-C, CANS, offers Kybella®, an injectable treatment designed to reduce submental fullness (a “double chin”), enhancing jawline definition for a more sculpted and confident look.

Understanding Submental Fullness in Gender-Affirming Care

Submental fullness can affect individuals of all genders and may be influenced by genetics, aging, or weight fluctuations. Refining severe fat in the jawline in gender-affirming care can help create a more defined and sculpted profile, often a key aesthetic goal for those undergoing facial transition. Whether seeking a more angular jawline or a softer contour, Kybella® provides a non-surgical solution to address excess fat under the chin, supporting a more aligned self-image.

What is Kybella®?

Kybella® is an FDA-approved injectable treatment containing deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule that helps break down and absorb fat. When injected into the submental area, Kybella® dissolves fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. Once removed, these destroyed fat cells cannot regenerate, leading to permanent fat reduction in the treatment area.

Benefits of Kybella® for Gender-Affirming Patients

For those in the process of gender transition, Kybella® offers several advantages:

• Non-surgical approach – Avoids the need for incisions or anesthesia.
• Permanent fat reduction – Once fat cells are destroyed, they do not return.
• Customizable treatment plans – Tailored to individual aesthetic goals.
• Gradual and natural-looking results – Enhances facial contours over time.
• Minimal downtime – Allows patients to continue daily activities with little disruption.

What to Expect from Kybella® Treatment

Consultation and Personalization

Jennifer Fick takes a patient-centered approach, understanding each individual’s transition goals and how Kybella® can best support their desired outcome. During the consultation, she evaluates the facial structure and medical history to determine the appropriate number of sessions for optimal results.

Procedure Overview

Each session lasts under 30 minutes and involves a series of small injections in the submental area. The number of treatment sessions varies based on the amount of fat present, but most patients undergo more than one treatment. Multiple treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart; most patients undergo two to four sessions.

Recovery and Results

Some swelling, redness, or tenderness is expected after treatment, but these effects typically subside within a few days. In rare instances, patients may experience temporary facial muscle weakness or nerve injury.

Results develop gradually as the body processes and eliminates the submental fat cells, with noticeable improvements appearing within weeks and optimal results achieved after multiple sessions.

Kybella® Injections vs. Surgical Jawline Contouring

While surgical procedures like liposuction or chin augmentation can provide dramatic changes, Kybella® offers a less invasive alternative with a more gradual transition. For patients awaiting gender-affirming facial surgery, Kybella® can help refine the jawline, offering confidence-boosting results in the interim. Additionally, some patients find that Kybella® enhances their post-surgical outcomes by further defining their profile.

Why Choose Deschamps-Braly Clinic for Kybella®?

Jennifer Fick is a master nurse injector with over 20 years of experience in non-surgical facial rejuvenation. As one of the few Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialists in the Bay Area, she combines clinical expertise with an artistic approach to achieving natural, balanced results tailored to each patient’s gender-affirming goals.

If you’re considering Kybella® as part of your gender-affirming journey, contact Deschamps-Braly Clinic to schedule a consultation with Jennifer Fick and our team. Take the next step toward a more sculpted and confident appearance.

Cheek augmentation is a common procedure in facial gender-affirming surgeries. It can be achieved through various techniques, including fat grafting and dermal fillers. Each method offers different benefits and can be tailored to meet the specific goals of each patient.

Cheek Augmentation with Fat Grafting

Fat grafting is a two-step procedure that uses fat cells to fill in hollow cheeks and contour the cheekbones. Fat cells used during the procedure are obtained through liposuction, which is a minimally invasive surgery performed on the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The transferred fat cells are then injected into the cheeks using a hollow needle. Fat grafting is Dr. Deschamps-Braly’s preferred method of cheek augmentation since the results are more natural compared to cheek implants that sit over the cheek bone. However, fat grafting and implants can be used in combination for patients seeking a dramatic transformation.

Cheek augmentation can be used in facial feminization surgery to create the look of high cheekbones or used in facial masculinization surgery to give the cheeks a more squared appearance, combatting the look of rounded feminine cheeks. This surgery can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures like jawline contouring and forehead reshaping.

Cheek Augmentation with Fillers

Cheek fillers are a non-surgical treatment option performed by board-certified aesthetic nurse specialist and master cosmetic injector Jennifer Fick. There are several different types of hyaluronic acid fillers that can be used for cheek augmentation. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in the body that hydrates the skin and gives it elasticity for a subtle plumping effect. Because of this natural component, almost anyone who wants to enhance the contours of their cheeks is a candidate for dermal fillers.

Which Procedure is Right for You?

Choosing between a fat transfer and fillers depends on several factors and it can be helpful to compare the benefits of each procedure when determining which is best for your personalized treatment.

Desired Permanence:

One of the main benefits of facial fat grafting is its permanent results. Once the fat injections are placed, patients can enjoy long-lasting enhancement without the need for regular maintenance or touch-ups. However, cheek fillers can be beneficial for patients who want to “try on” results before committing to a permanent change. These fillers will gradually be absorbed into the body, but results can last one year or more.

Aesthetic Goals

Patients seeking a major transformation in their facial shape and overall appearance can benefit from fat grafting. Transferred fat cells can build structure in the midface and increase the projection of the cheekbones. By creating this gentle lift, age-related volume loss can also be addressed. Patients who are looking for a more subtle change results may find that dermal fillers are the better option.

Natural Enhancement

Fat grafting uses fat cells from your own body, making this procedure completely natural. Although hyaluronic acid (the main substance in most fillers) is natural, there are also artificial components in dermal fillers. Patients with severe allergies can feel reassured about the safety of their cheek augmentation with fat grafting, as long as they are good surgical candidates.

Schedule a Consultation

Facial fat transfers and dermal fillers offer unique benefits for patients considering cheek augmentation. At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, our goal is to help patients feel more confident in their physical appearance and we are pleased to offer various treatment options to meet each patient’s treatment goals.

To learn more about cheek augmentation for gender affirmation, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly, a world leader in facial gender confirmation surgery.

Eyelid surgery holds the potential to redefine the face, imparting a distinctly feminine allure for patients seeking facial feminization surgery (FFS). Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly is a world leader in facial gender-affirming procedures and he uses specialized eyelid lift techniques to create a more feminine appearance with natural-looking results.

What is Eyelid Surgery?

Blepharoplasty (also known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift) is a cosmetic procedure that can be performed on the upper and lower eyelids to address signs of aging and congenital defects. Upper blepharoplasty can improve the look of hooded eyes or droopy eyelids and lower blepharoplasty addresses heavy fat pads beneath the eyes and sunken under-eyes. During the eyelid lift procedure, excess skin and fat will be removed through tiny incisions along the lash line and the muscles around the eyelids will be tightened to lift and open up the eyes.

In addition to its cosmetic benefits, eyelid surgery can also address functional concerns, such as impaired vision due to overhanging skin or ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). By restoring optimal eyelid function, the procedure not only enhances aesthetics but also improves overall visual clarity and comfort.

How the Eyes Impact Your Appearance

At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we offer several plastic surgery procedures tailored for facial feminization or masculinization. A key aspect of eyelid surgery is its ability to address specific concerns, such as hooded or droopy eyelids, and heavy fat deposits, which may contribute to a more masculine appearance. By meticulously sculpting the upper and lower eyelids, Dr. Deschamps-Braly can create a higher eyelid crease and larger, more rounded eyes – key characteristics of feminine eyes. Another feminine characteristic is a raised brow with a soft curvature, compared to the heavy, low brow of a traditionally masculine appearance. An upper eyelid lift in combination with a brow lift can simultaneously address the eyelids and surrounding eye area for optimal results.

Combining Eyelid Surgery with Other Feminizing Procedures

Facial feminization surgery typically includes a combination of procedures to address each area of the face. The shape of the eyes relative to other facial features, like the nose, forehead, and cheeks, can further enhance their feminizing effect by creating a harmonious balance and proportion. Blepharoplasty can be combined with several other surgical procedures, including forehead reduction and reshaping, cheek augmentation, jawline contouring, and more. By assessing each patient’s unique facial anatomy and bone structure, Dr. Deschamps-Braly can create a smoother, softer contour between the eyes and cheeks to create a more delicate, feminine appearance.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering eyelid surgery as part of your facial feminization surgery, schedule a consultation today with expert plastic, craniofacial, and facial gender-affirming surgeon Dr. Deschamps-Braly in San Francisco, CA. At your consultation, eyelid surgery and other feminizing procedures will be discussed in detail to create an individualized treatment plan that meets your goals and helps you feel more confident in your appearance.

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is a transformative procedure for gender-diverse individuals seeking to align their facial features with their gender identity. Facial hair removal is critical to achieving a smooth and traditionally feminine appearance, but understanding the best time to undergo facial removal can be challenging, especially when timing facial feminization surgery.

Understanding the Relationship Between FFS and Facial Hair Removal

FFS reshapes and contours facial features such as the forehead, jawline, and chin to create a more traditionally feminine appearance. While FFS focuses on bone structure and soft tissue, facial hair removal enhances these changes by ensuring smooth, hair-free skin that complements the newly contoured features.

Removing facial hair is especially significant for areas like the upper lip, chin, and neck, where visible stubble can contrast with a feminine aesthetic. Incorporating hair removal into your transition plan requires careful timing to optimize both procedures.

Should Hair Removal Be Done Before or After FFS?

Ultimately, the timing of hair removal depends on your preferences, overall goals, and your surgeon’s recommendations. Many patients opt for a combination approach: completing the majority of sessions pre-surgery and scheduling touch-ups post-surgery if needed. You cannot receive laser hair removal less than a month prior to your surgery, nor for at least 3 months after; however, it’s important to plan accordingly.

Benefits and Considerations Before FFS:

• Benefits: Pre-surgical hair removal helps surgeons visualize the skin’s structure better, ensuring precision during procedures.
• Benefits: It reduces the risk of post-surgical irritation or complications caused by hair growth in treated areas.
• Considerations: Both laser hair removal and electrolysis require multiple sessions spaced weeks apart. Starting early ensures you’ll make significant progress before surgery.

Benefits and Considerations After FFS:

• Benefits: Post-surgery hair removal allows for more targeted treatment, especially if skin contours shift due to FFS.
• Benefits: It can address any remaining or missed hair for a more refined result.
• Considerations: Skin sensitivity after FFS may require a waiting period before resuming hair removal sessions.
• Considerations: Some patients may find it more convenient to address the bulk of hair removal before surgery to streamline recovery.

Why Choose Deschamps-Braly for Your Transition Journey

Dr. Deschamps-Braly’s expertise in facial feminization surgery and dedication to personalized care make the Deschamps-Braly Clinic a top choice for transgender and gender-diverse patients. The team collaborates with each patient to create a tailored plan, addressing surgical and non-surgical elements to achieve the most harmonious results.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Your transition is unique, and personal recommendations will help you achieve your goals. Schedule a consultation with Deschamps-Braly Clinic to discuss your FFS and facial hair removal plans.

Hairline lowering surgery can be a crucial step for transgender women who want to achieve a more feminine appearance. By understanding the distinctions between masculine and feminine hairlines, and how the surgical procedure is performed, patients can make informed decisions about pursuing this procedure with board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon, Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly.

Distinguishing Characteristics of Masculine and Feminine Hairlines

The hairline frames the upper face and can have a significant impact on the look of the forehead and the overall proportion of facial features. Understanding the specifics of how the hairline differs among men and women is crucial when creating a natural-looking result. These are some of the main differences:

Hairline Position and Shape

The masculine hairline typically sits further back, which contributes to the look of a larger forehead. Masculine hairlines also have an ‘M’ shape due to recession at the temples, while feminine hairlines have an oval shape that runs in an even line across the forehead and around the temples.

Aging Patterns

Male pattern baldness often results in a receding hairline, while female pattern hair loss typically manifests as overall thinning. Hair loss is bothersome for all people, but a receding hairline can be especially stressful for transgender women since it is a noticeable sign of their gender assigned at birth.

Hair Growth Direction

Men’s hair generally grows toward the face in a straight pattern, while feminine hairlines grow away from the face and down, creating a whorl pattern. Bringing the hairline forehead and transplanting new hair to the area can easily conceal this identifier of male vs. female hairlines.

How is Hairline Lowering Surgery Performed?

Feminizing hairline lowering surgery is almost always included in facial feminization procedures, especially among patients who have a naturally large forehead or higher hairline. It can also benefit non-transgender patients who want to address their receding hairlines. During the surgical procedure, an incision will be made along the hairline and the scalp tissue containing the hair will be brought forward, lowering the hairline and shortening the forehead. After the area has fully healed, individual hair follicles can be transplanted onto the hairline later using follicular unit excision (FUE) hair transplant or follicular unit transplantation (FUT). FUE and FUT is not currently offered at Deschamps-Braly Clinic, but we have referrals with doctors we have worked with for these treatments.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

After surgery, the scalp will be bandaged to protect the healing incisions. Mild swelling and bruising are common but typically improve in one week. However, recovery time will vary depending on whether hairline lowering was received alone or in combination with other facial feminization procedures. At your consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, he will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your concerns, and explain the hairline lowering procedure and other surgical options in detail to determine the best choice of treatment for your individual needs and treatment goals.

Schedule a Consultation

At The Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we specialize in gender-affirming procedures to help patients feel their most confident and beautiful selves. If you are considering hairline lowering surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with  expert facial feminization surgeon Dr. Deschamps-Braly at our office in San Francisco, CA.