Why it's done

Many facial features, such as the eyes, jaw and brow, reflect gender differences. While other body parts can be covered or hidden, facial features are readily seen. For transgender people who have a gender identity that differs from the sex assigned to them at birth, altering these characteristics can be essential in their transition. Being seen as women can also help transgender women avoid harassment and discrimination.

However, facial feminization surgery isn't right for every transgender woman. Your doctor might recommend against these surgeries if you have:

• Unmanaged mental health conditions
• Significant health conditions, such as heart or kidney disease, a bleeding disorder, or a history of blood clots in a deep vein (deep vein thrombosis) or in a lung (venous thromboembolism)
• Any condition that limits your ability to give your informed consent