Feminization Surgery of the Upper Face as the Crucial Factor in Gender Confirmation—Pearls and Pitfalls

Abstract

Background: Upper-face feminization is a frequently executed procedure in sexual reassignment surgery, owing to its ability to influence gender identity through adjustments to the hairline, forehead, and peri-orbital area. The procedure includes reducing the hairline, lifting the brows, shaving the orbital region, and applying specific techniques to reduce the frontal bone. This research aims to assess the outcomes, results, and potential complications associated with this surgery among transgender patients. Material and Method: Retrospective review of medical records of 20 patients who attended for facial feminization surgery of the upper face between June 2022 and June 2023, analyzing the previously performed procedures, complications and revision surgery outcomes, and first-time procedures. A literature review was performed for similar studies. Results: 20 patients were included in the study. Among the cohort treated elsewhere (n = 11), the primary complaint was insufficient browbone reduction and anterior frontal sinus table setback. They underwent poorly performed Type 1 reduction when full forehead reconstruction (Type 3/4) was indicated (n = 3), or no reduction was performed during hairline advancement (n = 4). Type 3 forehead reduction with orbital shaving and hairline advancement with simultaneous temporal browlift was most commonly performed in both revision and first-time surgical upper face feminization (n = 15) (75%). Type 1 osteoplasty was performed in four patients (10%), one Type 3 revision surgery was performed after insufficient Type 3 reduction, and one case of shock-induced alopecia was reported, treated with PRP/peptides and a FUE hair graft. Conclusions: The author’s preferred technique, ‘whole-in-one’ upper face feminization by modified bi-coronal incision with frontal trichophytic hyper-beveled incision, provides sufficient insight into the frontal bone and orbital region, the desired forehead osteoplasty and the most efficient insight into the temporal area, enabling safe dissection between fasciae, ligamentous adhesion removal, and periosteal attachment, providing full soft and hard tissue feminization. Nevertheless, feminization procedures should be meticulously planned, and all concerning issues should be addressed during the first surgery in order to prevent revisions, complications, and patient dissatisfaction.

Keywords

• facial feminization
• gender affirmation surgery
• frontal sinus setback
• plastic surgery
• craniofacial surgery