Chin
The shape, size and projection of the chin is another critical area of focus for successful overall facial gender confirmation. Masculine chins tend to have more angular lines and shadows and are wider in body and squarer in shape. Women’s chins tend to be narrower, smoother, more rounded and have an overall softer appearance. Even given these conventions, the most important consideration when making plans for the chin during facial feminization is that it complements your remaining features. Our faces are so unique that some male-to-female individuals may still appear more balanced with a slightly stronger chin than is typical for a woman. Dr. DeFatta will discuss these types of considerations with you during your consultation, and together you will craft an achievable transformation plan that meets your desires.
Options for Chin Feminization
Chin recontouring, or genioplasty/mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can reduce the size and recontour the shape of a prominent chin. In facial feminization, this procedure can be used to reduce and reshape a large male chin to be smaller, less angular, with a smoother and more feminine aesthetic. Occasionally, men wishing to undergo facial feminization will present with very weak or recessed chins to begin with, and in those cases, a chin implant may even be discussed to bring balance to the upper and lower portions of the face. Chin recontouring can often be combined with lower face and neck feminization procedures to eliminate the need for multiple incisions and reduce repeated anesthesia exposures.
Method of Surgery
Dr. DeFatta performs chin reshaping as an outpatient procedure so you can return home the same day to start the recovery process. The procedure takes approximately one hour to perform. However, if combined with other facial feminization procedures, the overall surgery time will increase. Dr. DeFatta uses a small incision under the chin to access the bone of the chin. The incision is virtually invisible and provides him with the view he needs to ensure an optimal result when reshaping the bone and the soft tissue if needed.
What to Expect
A patient usually experiences swelling and bruising following this surgery, which disappears on its own within a few weeks. It typically takes a few weeks to months for the swelling to subside completely and the final result to be seen.
Immediately following chin augmentation surgery, a secure dressing will be applied and worn for about three to give days. Recovery often requires a patient to keep their head elevated as much as possible, even while sleeping. It generally takes seven to ten days for the incision to heal. At three weeks, the patient can usually return to normal activities. However, any activity that can jar or bump the face must be postponed for about six weeks. Some patients receive medication to help accelerate the healing process.
Dr. DeFatta will provide post-operative instructions for you to follow during your recovery. The instructions will explain how you should care for the surgical site and list any medications that should be taken during the recovery period.
Dr. DeFatta will follow your progress throughout the recovery period to make the experience as easy as possible. He performs periodic evaluations to ensure a full and speedy recovery while avoiding post-treatment complications. Dr. DeFatta is always available to respond to your questions during the recovery period.
