Facial masculinization surgery (FMS) is a life-changing procedure for transgender men and non-binary individuals whose outer appearance does not reflect their gender identity. Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly is a world leader in facial gender-confirming surgery and has helped develop some of the latest techniques and procedures for FMS. This is what patients should know what FMS can achieve, procedure details, and recovery.

What is Facial Masculinization?

The male face is typically characterized by sharp angles on the cheeks and nose along with a defined jawline as opposed to the rounded, high cheekbones and smaller forehead on a feminine face. FMS encompasses a variety of procedures that augment and recounter various areas of the face to create a more masculine appearance. Surgical procedures are typically combined to simultaneously address the forehead, cheeks, nose, jaw, and chin, resulting in a harmonious facial aesthetic. At your consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, he will assess your facial anatomy and discuss your surgical goals to create a customized surgical plan that will give you the best possible results.

Preparing for Facial Masculinization

Properly preparing for surgery is crucial for a successful outcome. Before your consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, we will ask that you prepare a comprehensive list of all current medications, including supplements and hormones you might be taking, as certain medications may need to be avoided in the weeks leading up to surgery. If you are a smoker, you must stop for at least six weeks before surgery since the nicotine in cigarettes and e-cigarettes can interfere with healing. On the day of your surgery, arrange for a close friend or family member to accompany you and drive you home. If you are an out-of-town patient, our concierge, Andy, can recommend nearby hotels where you can comfortably and safely recover.

Surgical Procedure

The details of your surgery will depend on the specific procedures you plan to receive; this will be discussed in detail at a pre-surgical appointment with Dr. Deschamps-Braly so that you have clear expectations of the procedure. FMS is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep. During surgery, Dr. Deschamps-Braly will use various techniques to contour and reset the forehead and jaw bone and he may also use implants to augment cheekbones. The entire procedure will take several hours followed by an hour of recovery before you return home.

Recovery

After FMS, patients should expect moderate swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Dr. Deschamps-Braly will prescribe pain medication and you may be given a compression garment to reduce swelling and discomfort. Patients should take a week off work to rest and recover at home. Light activities can be resumed after 1-2 weeks, but strenuous activities should be avoided for at least six weeks or until you have been cleared by Dr. Deschamps-Braly. During this time, swelling will continue to reduce and the incisions will start to fade as they heal.

After six months, patients can start to see the final results of their procedure but it can take up to one year to fully recover. Several post-surgery appointments will be scheduled so that Dr. Deschamps-Braly can monitor your healing and address any concerns you might have during the recovery process.

Risks and Benefits

As with any surgical procedure, FMS has some risks such as bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimal when you receive surgery from a board-certified craniofacial and facial plastic surgeon who is trained specifically in facial feminization and masculinization procedures. Dr. Deschamps-Braly has helped hundreds of patients achieve exceptional results that enhance their self-confidence and overall quality of life post-surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

At The Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we are dedicated to creating a safe space where patients will feel comfortable at each step of their treatment process. To learn more about facial masculinization surgery and how you can benefit from a personalized procedure with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, schedule a consultation today at our San Francisco office.

Visible scarring is an understandable concern for patients undergoing facial feminization surgery. However, with the right techniques and the care of a specialized surgeon like Dr. Deschamps-Braly, patients can expect fantastic results without unsightly scarring. This is what you should expect about scarring and recovery time after a forehead reduction in San Francisco.

What is Forehead Reduction Surgery?

Forehead reduction is a cosmetic surgery commonly included with facial feminization surgery. The female forehead is typically smaller in width from the hairline to the brows and the frontal bones of the forehead sit farther back. During the forehead reduction procedure, the frontal bone between the eyebrows and orbital bones around the eyes will be carefully reduced and restructured to set the forehead back and soften its appearance to create a more feminine appearance.

The Forehead Reduction Procedure

Forehead reduction is performed under general anesthesia as an individual surgery or in combination with other facial feminization procedures. During surgery, Dr. Deschamps-Braly will place the incisions along the hairline or just behind it so there will be minimal visible scarring, if any. The incisions will be carefully sutured to close the wounds without pulling the skin back too tightly. Bandages will be placed over the incisions and the sutures will be removed at our office in a post-operative appointment.

How Long Does It Take the Scar to Heal?

After a forehead reduction procedure, patients should expect moderate swelling and bruising and a slightly red and raised incision line. However, swelling goes down significantly during the first week and the incisions will gradually fade and become less noticeable. It can take up to three months for the incision to be easily camouflaged and up to a year for the scar to fully heal.

How to Minimize Scarring

Choose the Right Surgeon

Receiving a brow reduction from an experienced surgeon like Dr. Deschamps-Braly is the first step in ensuring a smooth recovery process and the best possible results. He is highly knowledgeable in the best surgical techniques to minimize scarring that won’t distract from your beautiful results.

Follow Post-Operative Instructions

Properly following post-surgical instructions is crucial to reduce scarring and prevent complications. Keep the incision area clean and apply ointments or scar creams as prescribed. Avoiding strenuous activity to reduce strain on the healing incisions can also minimize the risk of a poorly healed scar.

Concealing Your Scar

If you feel self-conscious about your healing incision line, there are many easy ways to hide it until it is fully healed. After one week, patients can safely wear hats or headbands to cover up the incision. Brushing your hair forward can also hide its appearance until new hairs grow and permanently conceal the scar.

Schedule a Consultation

At The Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we are committed to helping each of our patients feel more confident with personalized facial feminization surgery. To learn more about forehead reduction and the results you can expect, schedule a consultation today with double board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon, Dr. Deschamps-Braly.

Microneedling is one of our popular non-surgical treatments and it can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including signs of aging, sun damage, and irregular skin texture and tone. After your microneedling treatment, it is important to follow aftercare instructions to protect your skin and allow for the best possible results.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a non-surgical procedure performed in-office by board-certified aesthetic nurse specialist Jennifer Fick. During the microneedling treatment, a handheld device equipped with multiple tiny needles punctures the skin, triggering the body’s natural wound-healing process and stimulating collagen production. Collagen is a protein in the skin that gives it structure and elasticity. As new collagen and tissues resurface the skin, healthier skin with a smoother texture and brighter complexion will develop.

Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling treatment can target many skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Acne scars
• Hyperpigmentation: sun spots and age spots
• Improves the appearance of crepey skin on the face, neck and chest
• Dull skin

Depending on each patient’s specific concerns, treatment add-ons like PRP, Vitamin C serum, or topical retinoids may be included.

Microneedling can be used before facial cosmetic or facial gender affirming surgery to improve overall skin tone and texture, and help patients feel more confident in their appearance while they wait for surgery. It can also be used after surgery to maintain beautiful results.

Microneedling Recovery

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure with little downtime but there is a short recovery period as the skin heals. Immediately after treatment, the skin may appear mildly red and swollen and there may be some flaking around the tiny wounds. Although you can immediately return to work, we recommend that you avoid strenuous activities for 2-3 days to minimize swelling and discomfort. Results will start to be seen after a few weeks as collagen develops and gently plumps the skin. A series of treatments may be needed for optimal results.

Tips for Recovery

The following aftercare methods will ensure a safe recovery and the best possible results from your microneedling treatment:

Protect Your Skin From the Sun

After microneedling treatments, the skin will be sensitive to heat and more prone to sun damage because of the tiny wounds made on the surface. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher should be worn daily for at least two weeks after treatment. However, we recommend daily sunscreen application regardless of cosmetic procedures to prevent sun damage and premature aging.

Keep Your Skin Clean

Infections after a microneedling procedure are rare but they can occur if the open wounds are not kept clean. Makeup should be avoided for the first day to prevent bacteria exposure in the treatment area. Swimming pools, saunas, and exercise should also be avoided for three days to prevent exposure to dirt or harmful bacteria. We may prescribe a topical antibiotic cream and will give you detailed instructions for how often to apply it.

Use Gentle Skincare Products

Harsh skin care products with ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids should be avoided for at least two days after microneedling treatments. These ingredients have exfoliating properties that could damage your healing skin, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or other complications. Instead, use a gentle cleanser and moisturize, and be careful not to scrub your skin.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about microneedling in San Francisco, CA, schedule a consultation today at The Deschamps-Braly Clinic. Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Jennifer Fick and our team look forward to meeting you and getting started on a personalized treatment plan that helps you look and feel your very best.

When trying to capture your most authentic self, you’ll find the most valuable opinion from an expert in facial aesthetics and gender-affirming treatments. Dr. Deschamps-Braly offers many ways to change your facial aesthetic to be representative of your true self. Whether you’ve begun your transitional journey or not, it can be helpful to learn more about facial aesthetics and how they relate to perceived gender. Here’s what to know about one aspect of facial aesthetics, the eyes, and how they can affirm gender.

What Makes a Face Feminine or Masculine?

Gender and facial aesthetics are a complex area of study but one that Dr. Deschamps-Braly has received extensive training in from pioneers in the field. A feminine face tends to be softer with features like rounded cheeks, full lips, a small chin, and a rounded jawline. On the other hand, a masculine face tends to be squared with prominent, well-defined features. The forehead is often wider with a heavyset brow and the jawline is more angled, among other facial features.

What’s the Difference Between Feminine and Masculine Eye Shape?

The angular features of a traditionally masculine face also apply to the eye area. Feminine faces tend to have a more arched and defined brow along with wider eyes in a rounded or open almond shape. On the other hand, masculine eyes may be narrower or oval-shaped with flatter brows that curve downward at the ends. Additionally, a masculine brow tends to be heavier and have a greater protrusion, while a feminine brow may have a more defined and sculpted look. Masculine eyes may be deeper set while feminine eyes may sit further forward on the face.

Gender-Affirming Treatments for Masculine and Feminine Eyes

Dr. Deschamps-Braly offers several gender-affirming procedures for the eyes and eye area. A brow lift targets the outside “tail” of the eyebrow, an important aspect of the brow’s overall appearance. This is a more modern approach compared to previous methods that raised the entire brow and it allows for natural-looking results that will age well. Forehead reduction and contouring can be a more complex procedure, depending on each patient’s goals and their existing facial features. The orbital bones around the eyes may need to be reshaped to create a rounded appearance and the brow bone can also be reconstructed to reduce its size and prominence on the face.

For patients who are just starting on their transitional journey or those who are not ready for surgery, there are many non-surgical options offered by Jennifer Fick, a board-certified aesthetic nurse specialist and Master Cosmetic Injector.

Non-Surgical Options

Although eyelid or brow surgery may be part of your gender-affirming procedure with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, many non-surgical options can also be used to change the overall appearance of the eyes. In some cases, Botox and dermal fillers can be used to add volume and subtly lift the brow, changing its shape and/or curvature to add a feminine arch or create a flatter masculine look. Along with treating the eyes, fillers and Botox can be used to make other adjustments to the face like redefining the jawline or cheekbones, plumping the lips, softening the cheeks, adding volume to the chin, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and more. 

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a leading expert in facial feminization and masculinization surgeries. It is his goal to help patients feel more comfortable in their appearances with a look that matches their true selves. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly and our experienced injectors, contact our San Francisco, CA office by calling or filling out our online form.

A strong, well-defined chin is one of the features most strongly associated with masculinity, as evidenced by popular celebrities in the media. Implants are one way to augment the chin and create a more masculine profile, but other options with fewer risks will also be considered. Here’s what patients should know about chin implants and how Dr. Deschamps-Braly might utilize different tools and techniques as part of their gender-affirming procedure.

How Do Chin Implants Work?

Chin implants are typically made from a silicone mold that is fitted over the existing bone and under the chin. These implants give the chin more projection and definition, which can help square the jawline and renew facial harmony and balance with other facial features. Although chin implants can be useful in some patients with weak or underdeveloped chins, Dr. Deschamps-Braly has found these implants to be potentially problematic. Even under his expert care, there are risks of the implant shifting, being rejected by the body, or damaging the nerves inside and around the mouth. 

Alternative Chin Augmentation Procedures

Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a world-renowned craniofacial surgeon and leader in gender-affirming surgery. He believes that a more natural approach to masculinizing chin augmentation, instead of synthetic implants, can offer patients the best possible results. Rather than using chin implants, the patient’s bones can be moved, repositioned, and held in place with biologically compatible titanium screws to set the chin forward. Although incisions are made inside the mouth to access the jaw structure, pre-surgery 3D imaging will be used to make sure there is no interference with the roots of the teeth or facial nerves.

What Procedures Can be Combined with Chin Augmentation?

Jaw augmentation is often combined with chin augmentation to enhance the overall look of the jawline, creating a wider, more squared appearance. In some cases, options like facial liposuction can also help define the chin and get rid of submental fat. Depending on each patient’s unique features, it may be beneficial to undergo rhinoplasty at the same time to further balance the facial profile. Together, these options can create a more masculine look that restores or improves facial harmony.

The Benefits of Choosing Dr. Deschamps-Braly for Chin Augmentation

Although chin implants are becoming a more popular option for patients who want to achieve a more masculine look, it’s essential to choose the most experienced and trained facial plastic surgeon for your chin augmentation procedure. Dr. Deschamps-Braly is one of the foremost facial masculinization surgeons in the world and can offer an experienced, professional opinion on the best way to create a more masculine look. He also has specialized training in orthognathic (jaw) surgery and can ensure a great aesthetic result while protecting the structure and function of the jaw. 

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a world-class, board-certified facial plastic surgeon and leading expert in facial masculinization surgeries. To meet with our team and learn more about chin augmentation, implants, and the best options for your goals, contact our San Francisco office by calling or filling out our online form.

Recovery after facial masculinization surgery might seem daunting, but by following Dr. Deschamps-Braly’s post-operative instructions, you can have a smooth recovery process. Here is what you need to know when preparing for facial masculinization recovery.

What is Facial Masculinization Surgery? 

Facial masculinization surgery is a gender-confirming procedure offered by Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly, a world leader in facial feminization and masculinization. Facial masculinization is customized for each patient’s facial anatomy and desired look, but the main goal is to masculinize the facial profile and help transgender men feel more confident in their appearance. Women typically have rounded facial features and a slimmer nose while men have angular facial structures with sharp contours. Procedures commonly used in facial masculinization include rhinoplasty, jaw augmentation, forehead reshaping, and Adam’s apple augmentation. Dr. Deschamps-Braly will restructure each of these areas to sharpen the contours of the face, creating a more masculine profile.

How Long is Recovery from Facial Masculinization Surgery? 

After facial masculinization surgery, swelling and bruising are common but will improve significantly during the first two weeks. Bandages and compression garments should be worn at all times to minimize swelling and aid in proper recovery. Drainage tubes placed during the surgical procedure will be removed at our office after one week. Patients will also be prescribed pain medications and antibiotics to aid in healing and prevent infections. After two weeks, patients can start to see changes in their appearance, but there will still be some swelling. It can take 6-12 months for swelling to completely reduce. During this time, patients will gradually begin to see more changes in the contours of their face.

How to Prepare for Recovery

Preparing for a surgical recovery will set you up for the easiest possible recovery, and our concierge team will be happy to provide recommendations for local accommodations and travel services. We recommend that traveling patients book a hotel near our San Francisco office so that they can be close by for their post-operative appointments. Stocking up on groceries and any supplies you might need will help create a comfortable environment for you to rest and recover.

What to Avoid During Recovery 

It is important to give yourself time to rest and recover after facial masculinization procedures. A soft diet may also be recommended, especially after jaw reconstruction. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for about four weeks, or until you have been cleared by Dr. Deschamps-Braly. Regular post-operative appointments will be scheduled at our office and we are always available to answer questions and address any concerns you might have during recovery.

Schedule a Consultation

The Deschamps-Braly Clinic is committed to exceptional patient care and our team is here for you at each stage of your surgery and recovery. To learn more about facial masculinization and your surgical options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation today at our office in downtown San Francisco.

Congratulations on your recent weight loss! More and more people are losing weight through diet and exercise, not to mention through weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Rybelsus, Trulicity, and Saxenda.

Weight loss reduces fat throughout the body, including the face. Facial fat is a big part of youthful appearance, and reduction in facial fat can make sagging skin and wrinkles more noticeable.

Deschamps-Braly Clinic has a wide range of options for giving you back your youthful look after weight loss.

Non-Surgical Options

Our board-certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Jennifer Fick explained all the ways she can help:

• Neuromodulation: “Neuromodulators like Botox are a great option for softening facial expressions that result in wrinkles, like relaxing a furrowed brow. This can make patients look less “angry” and really help bring out their eyes. Neuromodulators can even help some patients with TMJ, migraines and hyperhidrosis (unwanted sweating).”

• IPL Photofacial: “Intense pulsed light treatment can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that often show up after weight loss. It can also reduce the effects of sun damage, reduce redness, reduce visible blood vessels, reduce birthmarks, and reduce stretch mark discoloration. It’s one of our most popular options.”

• Non-surgical facelifts: “We offer a wide array of minimally invasive options, including injectables and fillers like Juvéderm, Restylane Kysse, or Belotero. We also offer microneedling, as well as a combination of procedures that can include IPL.

Surgical Options

Patients seeking a more dramatic change also have surgical options available. Dr. Deschamps-Braly sat down with us to go over your options.

• Eyelid and under-eye surgery: “Many people who lose weight are surprised to see changes around their eyes that were hidden when they were heavier. You have several great surgical options to reduce bags under the eyes and to improve drooping eyelids and skin below the brows.”

• Lip lifts: “When people age or lose weight, their upper lip can start to appear longer. To improve this, I remove a small section of skin below your nose. This subtly brings your lip up, exposing more lip tissue. This makes your lips appear fuller and gives a more typically feminine and youthful look. I can perform a similar lip lift for the corners of the mouth. This creates a more pleasant resting expression by reducing the downward turns at each corner that make it look as if you are frowning. This also gives the appearance of more lip volume.”

• Cheek implants: “While a few patients may benefit from cheek implants to make their faces more symmetrical, I generally recommend improving the cheeks in other ways. For patients who have lost weight, adding a cheek implant may make the hollows of your cheeks more pronounced. That is often the opposite of what we are trying to achieve.”

• Fat grafting: “This is a much more versatile option. The fat pad on your cheekbones is a very important indicator of health and youthfulness, and weight loss often reduces fat in that area. I harvest your own fat from a donor area and graft it to your cheeks, giving a younger and healthier look.Fat can also be grafted below lines and wrinkles to reduce their appearance. The result is a subtle but significant change in how old you look. I often do fat grafting during bony work, but it can be done at any time to refresh the face.”

• Facelifts: “This is a very popular option following weight loss. It can result in dramatic changes in appearance, especially by reducing the appearance of nasolabial folds [the lines from the corners of your nose to the corners of your mouth]. For patients with pronounced horizontal lines on their forehead, I can improve those by making small incisions behind the hairline and tighten the underlying structures. Some patients may benefit from a scalp advancement to lower the hairline. I also perform a SMAS plication facelift, which can improve your new jawline and reduce any remaining ‘double chin’ caused by loose skin under the mandible [lower jaw].”

Dr. Deschamps-Braly concluded the interview by saying, “Weight loss has a wide range of long-term health benefits, and I am very pleased that you have taken this important step in your self-care. Now let’s see how we can help you reach other goals so you can move through the world with even more confidence. We look forward to seeing you in our offices.”

Jennifer added, “I hope you’ll book a consultation today to learn more about all the ways Dr. Deschamps-Braly and our colleagues can enhance your happiness!”

Book your consultation today by filling out on online contact form.

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) can be a pivotal step in the gender confirmation journey of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. Jaw feminization surgery has gained prominence in recent years as an essential procedure for FFS. In this educational blog, we will discuss the intricate aspects of jaw feminization surgery, exploring its techniques, advancements, potential risks, and transformative impact on patients’ lives.

What is Jaw Feminization Surgery?

Jaw feminization surgery primarily focuses on altering the mandibular structure to achieve a softer and more feminine appearance. Unlike traditional jaw surgeries aimed at correcting functional issues, jaw feminization surgery emphasizes aesthetic refinement. The shape of the jawline plays a significant role in a feminine vs. masculine facial structure. The female jawline is typically softer with a shorter, narrower chin than the male jawline. Dr. Deschamps-Braly utilizes a variety of surgical techniques in jaw feminization surgery to enhance his patients’ appearances while creating harmony with other facial features.

How is Jaw Feminization Surgery Performed?

Jaw feminization surgery typically involves a combination of techniques tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Common procedures include mandibular angle reduction, bone shaving, masseter muscle reduction, and genioplasty (chin augmentation or reduction). Generally, incisions will be made inside the cheeks and mouth to limit visible scarring and create an aesthetically pleasing result.

Mandibular Resections

Mandibular angle resections are often performed in conjunction with other jaw feminization techniques to achieve harmonious facial proportions and enhance overall feminization results. This technique involves the surgical reduction of the mandibular angle, the lower-back part of the jawbone. The mandibular angle gives the jaw a squared look, which is often associated with the male aesthetic. By reshaping and removing this section of the jaw bone, a softer and more tapered facial contour is created.

Masseter Muscle Reduction

The masseter muscle is located between the back of the lower jaw and the cheekbone. Excess chewing, teeth grinding, or natural size of the muscle can give the jaw an overly square look, which might not be desired by feminine-presenting individuals. The bulky appearance of this muscle can be reduced during feminizing jaw surgery or non-surgically with Botox or Dysport.

Risks and Complications

While jaw feminization surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries inherent risks and potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, asymmetry, and suboptimal aesthetic outcomes. However, these risks are significantly reduced when you choose a highly experienced surgeon who specializes in facial feminization surgery like Dr. Deschamps-Braly, a world leader in facial feminization and pioneer of several advanced surgical techniques. At your consultation, he will discuss potential risks and complications so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

Recovery following jaw feminization surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedures performed. Patients typically experience swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort, which gradually subside over several weeks. Most patients can return to work and other daily activities after 2-3 weeks. At your consultation, Dr. Deschamps-Braly will provide comprehensive postoperative care instructions, including dietary restrictions, oral hygiene practices, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

Schedule a Consultation

At The Deschamps-Braly Clinic, patients can rely on our expert team to provide personalized care with advanced surgical techniques. Schedule a consultation today at our San Francisco office to learn more about jaw contouring and other facial feminization procedures. We look forward to meeting you and helping you take the next step in your gender confirmation journey.

At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, we support all eligible citizens being able to exercise their right to vote. In this important election year, we’ve prepared this overview to help trans and gender-diverse American citizens exercise their constitutional right to vote.

If You Have Already Changed Your Name And Gender

Adult US citizens who have already changed their identity documents can visit the website maintained by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS).

NASS has a section called Can I Vote that has information on how and when to register and vote in your state or territory of residence, as well as information on how to change name and gender on an existing registration.

If You Are An American Citizen Living Outside The United States

Service members, their families, and overseas citizens should consult the Federal Voting Assistance Program.

Registering To Vote

Before you can vote, you must be registered to vote in most US states and territories. Many places have a registration deadline before the next election.

You register in the state or territory where you legally reside. Many young adults in continuing education are still legally residing with their parents, even if their school is in another state. Your legal residence is usually the address you list on your tax return.

The legal name you use to register must match the legal name on your government identification documents. If you have not changed your name and gender legally, Advocates for Transgender Equality has a section on how to change your identity documents.

In many states you can register with a political party affiliation, which allows you to vote in primary elections. You can also usually choose independent or no affiliation.

After you have registered, you will get a confirmation from the state. Be sure to keep this for when you are ready to vote.

The Voting Process

Most states and territories offer several ways to vote. You may find that some ways are more convenient and less stressful than others.

• By mailed ballot: Many trans and gender diverse voters prefer this option. Your state or territory will mail you a ballot that you can fill out and return. This allows you to take your time filling out your ballot, and you can research ballot initiatives and candidates you don’t know. You can complete it when you are ready, as long as it is returned or postmarked before polls close on Election Day. You may have the option to drop off your ballot in person, so check with your county or parish for options.
• Early voting in person: Most states and territories offer early in-person voting, usually a week or more before Election Day. Movement Advancement Project has a map that shows each state’s current rules. Early voting usually takes less time and is less stressful than voting on Election Day. Election workers will be under less pressure, so this is often better for trans and gender diverse voters.
• Voting in person on Election Day: All states and territories allow this. Your voter information packet mailed to you before Election Day should show where you need to go to vote. If you are not sure, Vote.org has a Polling Place Locator. Note: you may have to wait in line, so make sure you leave plenty of time. If you are in line before the polls close, they have to let you vote.

What To Bring

If you decide to vote in person, it is a good idea for trans and gender diverse voters to bring more documentation than most voters bring. Some volunteer poll workers may not know all the rules for trans and gender diverse citizens. You should bring:

• The kind of ID that is required
• Your voter registration confirmation document
• A utility bill showing the same name and the address on your registration
• Other IDs if you have them, like a passport, social security card, birth certificate
• The Voting While Trans PDF, printed or on your phone, to show to poll workers

If You Need Help

The US Election Assistance Commission offers a National Mail Voter Registration Form in 21 languages.

You can also contact the nearest LGBTQ community center. They can often help with identity documents and voter registration. In 2024, the Connie Norman Transgender Empowerment Center in Los Angeles opened America’s first transgender voting center.

If you don’t have a way to get to the polls on Election Day, Rideshare2Vote can help, and apps like Lyft and Uber often offer free or discounted rides to the polls.

Deschamps-Braly Clinic is proud to support you in making your voice heard, exercising your rights, and hope that this is helpful in providing guidance.

A chiseled jawline is a desirable feature for many individuals, especially cisgender or transgender men who want to achieve a more masculine appearance. If you are considering jaw augmentation, it is helpful to know what to expect during recovery so that you can effectively prepare for surgery.

What is Jaw Augmentation?

Jaw augmentation is a cosmetic surgery that enhances jawline definition and symmetry in the lower face. Board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon Dr. Deschamps-Braly performs jaw augmentation with a number of different types of implants based on the specifics of the patient’s case. These implants are customizable and are carefully tailored to each patient’s facial anatomy and desired goals. During the procedure, incisions are made inside the mouth so that there are no visible scars. The jaw implants will be permanently attached to the jaw bone using titanium screws. These implants enhance the projection of the jaw to achieve a more angular contour and stronger facial profile.

Who is a Candidate for Jaw Augmentation?

Healthy individuals who desire a more sculpted or masculine jawline are the ideal candidates for jaw augmentation with implants. Jaw augmentation can be performed alone or included in facial masculinization surgery procedures to create a sharper, more angular jawline. During your consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly, qualifications for surgical candidacy and options for jaw augmentation will be discussed in detail.

How to Prepare for Jaw Augmentation

Before receiving jaw augmentation, patients will schedule a consultation with Dr. Deschamps-Braly to discuss their treatment goals in detail. A physical examination or blood tests may be needed to ensure that patients are healthy and can safely receive surgery. Before jaw implant surgery, patients will need to stop taking certain medications and supplements. Smoking should also be avoided for at least six weeks before your surgery date to limit the risk of complications. Antibiotics may be prescribed before surgery to prevent infection.

What to Expect After Jaw Augmentation

After jaw augmentation, patients should expect moderate swelling that will start to improve after 24-48 hours. Mild to moderate discomfort is also common but prescription or over-the-counter pain medications often keep patients comfortable. We also recommend that patients sleep with their heads elevated for a few days and use cold compresses as needed to limit swelling. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks or until patients have been cleared by Dr. Deschamps-Braly.

While the incisions are healing, patients should eat a soft diet or liquid diet while avoiding spicy foods and food or drinks that are too hot or too cold. Antibacterial mouthwash and antibiotics will limit the risk of infection and help your incisions heal quickly.

Jaw Augmentation Results

The results of a jaw augmentation procedure will gradually become visible as swelling reduces. Improvements in jaw definition can be seen after 1-2 weeks but it can take up to three months to see the final results. These results are permanent.

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a world-renowned plastic, craniofacial, and facial gender-affirming surgeon. Anyone who is considering jaw augmentation in San Francisco is encouraged to call The Deschamps-Braly Clinic or fill out an online contact form to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward their ideal appearance.