What You Need to Know Before FFS: 5 Steps to Preparation

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) aims to achieve a more feminine and harmonious facial contour by reducing the effect of masculine scars on the appearance. However, this decision is an important and multi-stage step that has not only aesthetic but also psychological, physical and emotional aspects. Especially for trans women, FFS is one of the most sensitive and visible stages of transition.

So how should the preparation process be for such a comprehensive operation? Here are 5 critical steps to consider before deciding on FFS:

1. Ask Questions to Clarify Your Expectations

Do you want to have FFS or are you deciding because of pressure? This question is extremely important not only in terms of your physical expectations but also in terms of your inner motivations. Do you want FFS to better express your identity? What exactly is the feeling you get when you look in the mirror? When did you first become conscious of this process? It is very important that this process belongs to you and that you own it. Surgery should not be a state of “becoming”; it should be a process of “becoming itself”.

2. Choose a Surgeon Based on Knowledge

Every surgeon can do FFS, but not every surgeon can understand you. The surgeon’s experience is as important as his/her capacity to understand your needs and feminine expression. At this point, a surgeon who has worked with trans women before, who is familiar with their facial structure and every stage of the transition process will take your process to the next level. Dr. MFO and his team frequently work with trans women. He is extremely familiar with their process and successful surgeries are performed. Before-and-after photos, patient comments and direct consultations are guiding at this stage.

3. Psychological Preparation and Support Process

While FFS may look like a visual change, it is actually a deep and psychologically demanding transformation process. The alignment of your body with your identity can change the way you relate to yourself, your environment and society. Therefore, it may be helpful for you to prepare for the process with a therapist. It is normal to experience emotional fluctuations before and after surgery. Various personal development methods and activities such as meditation can be useful at this point.

4. Keeping Expectations Realistic

FFS is not a miracle, but an art that significantly meets expectations. The aim here is not to look like someone else, but to reveal more of the soft, feminine facial features and expressions that most appropriately reflect your true side. When your reflection in the mirror changes, the feeling of satisfaction you experience is usually in direct proportion to expectations. The postoperative healing process may take time; bruises, swelling and temporary asymmetries are normal. Nevertheless, a general assessment of your face and goals together with Dr. MFO before the process will help you make your expectations more realistic.

5. Plan Financial and Practical Preparations in Advance

FFS is often not a single operation but a combination of multiple interventions. This may require financial, emotional and time sacrifices. Therefore, plan in advance the budget of the process, the recovery period, how much time you need to take off from work and from whom you can get support. The preliminary information you will receive from our clinic will help you plan more or less for the process.

Conclusion

For many trans women, FFS is not just a surgical procedure, but the first time they “really” see themselves in the mirror. Therefore, when making this decision, not only aesthetic but also emotional, mental and social aspects should be taken into account. Be honest with yourself, own the process and remember: this is your body and your journey.

We hope that this article has provided you with useful information and solutions to your problems, and has inspired you to pursue your dreams and goals. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you and to help you in any way we can. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day!Follow our blog for more. You can also reach us on our contact page for any questions you may have. Ffs center is an LGBT community friendly organization.