Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is a series of procedures that can reshape the face and its features to achieve a more feminine appearance. FFS can be a life-changing option for transgender women or non-binary people who want to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. But how can FFS affect your dating life and relationships? In this blog post, we will explore some of the benefits and challenges of FFS in terms of romance, intimacy, and self-esteem.

What is FFS and what does it involve?

FFS is a term that covers a range of surgical procedures that can modify the shape and size of the forehead, brows, nose, cheeks, lips, jaw, chin, and Adam’s apple. The goal of FFS is to soften or reduce the masculine features of the face and create a more feminine or androgynous look. FFS can also include non-surgical treatments such as cosmetic fillers, botulinum toxin, fat grafting, and liposuction.

FFS is usually performed by a plastic surgeon who specializes in facial reconstruction and gender affirmation. The surgeon will work with the patient to design a customized plan that meets their goals and expectations. FFS can be done in one or multiple stages, depending on the complexity and number of procedures involved. The recovery time can vary from a few weeks to several months.

How can FFS improve your dating life?

Dating can be challenging for anyone, but especially for transgender or non-binary people who face discrimination, stigma, and violence in the dating scene. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 37% of transgender adults say they have experienced some kind of harassment or rejection from someone they were dating or had been on a date with because of their gender identity.

FFS can help improve your dating life by enhancing your confidence, attractiveness, and safety. Here are some of the ways FFS can benefit your dating prospects:

• **FFS can boost your self-esteem and self-image.** Many transgender or non-binary people struggle with dysphoria, which is the distress caused by the mismatch between their gender identity and their assigned sex at birth. Dysphoria can affect their mental health, well-being, and happiness. FFS can help alleviate dysphoria by making the face more congruent with the gender identity. This can improve the self-esteem and self-image of the person, making them more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
• **FFS can increase your attractiveness and appeal.** Physical appearance plays an important role in attraction and dating. FFS can enhance the beauty and femininity of the face, making it more appealing to potential partners. FFS can also help create a more harmonious and balanced facial structure, which is considered attractive by many people. Additionally, FFS can make the face look younger and healthier, which are also desirable traits in the dating market.
• **FFS can reduce your risk of discrimination and violence.** Unfortunately, many transgender or non-binary people face hostility and danger when they date or disclose their gender identity to others. Some people may react negatively or even violently to finding out that their date is transgender or non-binary. FFS can help reduce this risk by making the face more feminine or ambiguous, which can make it easier to pass as cisgender or blend in with the crowd. This can also help avoid unwanted attention or harassment from strangers or acquaintances.

What are some of the challenges of FFS in terms of relationships?

While FFS can have many positive effects on your dating life, it can also pose some challenges and difficulties in terms of relationships. Here are some of the potential issues you may encounter after undergoing FFS:

• **FFS can change your relationship with yourself.** FFS can alter your appearance significantly, which can affect how you see yourself and how you relate to others. You may need some time to adjust to your new look and identity, as well as cope with any emotional or psychological changes that may arise from the surgery. You may also experience some grief or loss for your old face or identity. It is important to seek support from your therapist, friends, family, or support groups during this transition period.
• **FFS can change your relationship with your partner.** If you are already in a committed relationship before undergoing FFS, you may face some changes in your dynamics with your partner. Your partner may need some time to get used to your new appearance and identity, as well as deal with any feelings of confusion, insecurity, jealousy, or resentment that may arise from the surgery. You may also experience some changes in your sexual attraction or compatibility with your partner. It is important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about your needs, expectations, and feelings during this process.
• **FFS can change your relationship with your family and friends.** FFS can also affect how your family and friends perceive and treat you. Some of them may be supportive and accepting of your decision, while others may be resistant or hostile to your change. You may face some challenges in maintaining or rebuilding your relationships with your loved ones, especially if they have strong opinions or beliefs about your gender identity or expression. It is important to be patient and respectful of their reactions, but also assertive and firm about your boundaries and choices.

Conclusion: Effect Of Facial Feminization Surgery

FFS can be a powerful and transformative option for transgender or non-binary people who want to achieve a more feminine or androgynous facial appearance. FFS can improve your dating life and relationships by boosting your confidence, attractiveness, and safety, but it can also pose some challenges and difficulties in terms of adjusting to your new look and identity, as well as dealing with the reactions of your partner, family, and friends. FFS is not a magic solution that will solve all your problems or guarantee happiness, but it can be a positive step towards living authentically and comfortably as yourself.

FAQ

• **How much does FFS cost?** The cost of FFS depends on several factors, such as the type and number of procedures involved, the surgeon’s fees, the hospital’s fees, the anesthesia’s fees, and the location of the surgery. The average cost of FFS in the U.S. ranges from $20,000 to $60,000. Some insurance companies may cover part or all of the cost of FFS if it is deemed medically necessary.
• **How do I find a good surgeon for FFS?** Finding a good surgeon for FFS requires some research and consultation. You should look for a surgeon who is board-certified in plastic surgery and has extensive experience and expertise in facial feminization surgery. You should also look for a surgeon who has a good reputation and reviews from previous patients, as well as a portfolio of before-and-after photos that demonstrate their skills and results. You should also meet with the surgeon in person to discuss your goals, expectations, options, risks, and costs of the surgery.
• **How do I prepare for FFS?** Preparing for FFS involves some physical and mental steps. Physically, you should follow the instructions of your surgeon regarding medications, supplements, smoking, alcohol, diet, and hygiene before the surgery. You should also arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital, as well as help you with your recovery at home. Mentally, you should prepare yourself for the changes that will occur in your appearance and identity, as well as cope with any anxiety or stress that may arise from the surgery. You should also seek support from your therapist, friends, family, or support groups before and after the surgery.