Q: Will I still look like “me” after my surgery?
A: While FFS will alter your appearance in subtle, appropriate ways, you will still be recognized by your friends, family and co-workers. They
will simply be seeing a more feminine, attractive version of your same facial features.
Q: Who is a good candidate for FFS?
A: Any transgender client can undergo surgery, as long as they are physically and mentally healthy, their face has finished growing (usually
around age 16), they have reasonable expectations for improvement rather than perfection, and they are either non-smokers or are willing to quit
prior to treatment.
Q: How can I anticipate my results?
A: Our team has a vast library of before and after photos that illustrate the different methods used to feminize the features. You can request to
see photos of patients who are undergoing similar treatments as your own. In addition, we use an advanced 3D imaging technology, which can
give you a fairly accurate idea of the changes you will see post-op.
Q: Do I need to undergo hormone therapy before FFS?
A: This is not necessary. If you are already on HRT, the doctor may advise that you pause this treatment in advance of plastic surgery to avoid
risk of complications.
Q: How long does it take to complete FFS?
A: Generally speaking, most clients can benefit from undergoing FFS in two stages, one focused on the upper face, and one that targets the lower
face. Of course, this can happen over the space of a few days. The benefit of completing your surgeries all at once is that the doctor will make
fewer incisions, and you will be able to consolidate your downtime and discomfort so you can return to your normal life as soon as possible. It can
also be more cost effective to complete FFS as a package.
Q: How bad will the scars be?
A: While all surgical procedures do leave some type of trail, our team is quite skilled at concealing these marks within the skin’s natural folds
and coloring. Please note that each patient will heal at a different rate, however our advanced surgical technique and comprehensive
aftercare regimen ensures a rapid healing process.
Q: What kind of anesthesia will be used?
A: While some of the individual treatments may not require general anesthesia, when a patient undergoes FFS as a package, GA is the best method of
ensuring a comfortable experience.
Q: Is FFS painful?
A: As with most surgeries, some swelling, redness, bruising and discomfort are to be expected. However, our team's surgical technique is designed
to minimize post-operative pain through careful planning and execution. If needed, you will receive ample access to pain medication as part of your
customized aftercare plan.
Q: Are there any risks with FFS?
A: All surgical procedures carry some risk, but our team goes out of their way to minimize complications through meticulous attention to detail and
a conservative approach towards incisions. In other words, we does not over-operate. Risks may include infection, excessive bleeding, pain,
paralysis, vision problems, sensation loss, swelling and scarring. It’s important to alert the doctor to any medical conditions or allergies you may
have before treatment.
Q: Is FFS an outpatient procedure?
A: This will depend on the extent of your surgery. If you are having a number of facial procedures done at once, then our team will probably
recommend an overnight stay in order to monitor your results and ensure you are on the proper path to healing. Procedures performed by themselves
can usually be done on an outpatient basis, however.
Q: How soon can I return to my normal routine?
A: This will depend on your individual capacity for healing, and on the nature of the surgeries you undergo. On average, FFS clients will need at
least two weeks of downtime.
Q: I am traveling to see Dr. Beck and his team from out of town. Where should I stay?
A: For detailed notes on accommodations, please see our Concierge page. You can also contact our patient coordinator who will be happy to assist
out-of-town patients with all their lodging, dining, transportation, entertainment and communication needs while in the San Mateo/San Francisco
area.
If you live in San Francisco, San Jose, San Mateo or the surrounding area and are interested in feminization surgery, please contact Bay Area Feminization Surgery to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified feminization surgeons .