8 Things to Know on Nose Feminization Surgery

Nose feminization surgery, a significant part of facial feminization, is rising in demand, particularly among transgender people, as it helps one look more feminine. With it, many people across the globe can get their face aligned with their gender identity to alleviate gender dysphoria, regain their lost confidence, and significantly improve their life quality. The advancements in surgical techniques for rhinoplasty in India, combined with the availability of highly skilled and experienced facial plastic and feminization surgeons, have made nose feminization surgery more accessible and effective at present.

To truly understand nose feminization surgery, the information below highlights the eight major things you must know about nose feminization surgery.

1. What is nose feminization surgery?

Nose feminization surgery, also known as feminizing rhinoplasty, is a type of plastic surgery that modifies one’s nose profile, transforming it into a more feminine shape. It has two different layers of complexity. First is changing the masculine nose features into more feminine ones- a narrower, more refined, and more elegant aspect of the nose. Second is the creation of a more aesthetically pleasing nose profile.

1. Objectives of nose feminization surgery

A nose feminization surgery transforms the whole facial appearance in response to the following goals:

• Harmonizing of the nose features- The nose shape, size, and contour are altered to create a more feminized nose that matches one’s gender identity and expression. This enhances social interactions and ensures a more positive self-image.
• Reducing the occurrence of misgendering - Someone will no longer be referred to a gender that is not their affirmed gender.
• A decline in the level of gender dysphoria- The surgery helps alleviate the discomfort or distress associated with a discrepancy in gender identity and assigned sex at birth.

1. Who can safely undergo nose feminization surgery?

Good candidates for nose feminization are:

• Individuals experiencing gender dysphoria are low in confidence in their facial appearance
• Healthy transgender people or cisgenders with masculine traits like wide nasal bridges, large nostrils, upturned or hooked tips, and asymmetry
• Individuals with full facial growth, especially those who are in the late teens or early 20’s age group
• People with realistic expectations, positive outlook, and emotional stability and maturity
• Non-smokers.

1. What is involved in nose feminization surgery?

Nose feminization surgery involves the following procedures:

• Nose profile feminization- The excess bone and cartilage from the nasal bridge are removed to create a smooth, feminine nose profile.
• Nose tip refinement- A small section of nasal tip cartilage is removed to narrow the nose tip, and the tip is slightly rotated upward to create a more feminine nose.
• Nasal bone narrowing- If the nose has a broad bridge, the nasal bridge bones are repositioned inwards to refine the nose shape.
• Narrowing of the nostrils (Alarplasty)- The width of the nostrils is reduced by removing a wedge of skin from the nose wings.

Preferably, an open-structured approach is used in rhinoplasty, wherein tiny incisions are created between the nostrils (along the columella), and specific cartilages are removed and reinforced in the nasal structure. 

A very smooth and precise cut is made in the bones with the help of an ultrasonic device to sculpt the nasal structures. This advanced technology, known as Piezosurgery, does not harm the surrounding soft tissues, allowing for a smoother and quicker recovery with fewer side effects and better results. 

1. How is the recovery after nose feminization surgery?

Initially, 2-3 days after surgery, breathing is temporarily impaired due to swelling and the formation of dry blood or crust inside the nose. Bruising, swelling, and any discomfort resolve in 2-3 weeks. Complete healing takes about two months.

1. When are the final results of nose feminization surgery apparent?

One needs to be patient about seeing their desired results. A wait of 2-6 months is required for the post-operative swelling to completely subside, and another 6 months for the skin and other soft tissues of the nose to adapt to the new shape of the nose. 

For secondary or tertiary cases, the final results are typically achieved within approximately 2 years.

1. Preparation for nose feminization surgery

For the surgery to be successful, the patient's physical and psychological readiness is crucial. To ensure this, the patient needs to undergo a consultation with an FFS surgeon, undergo a pre-operative evaluation, make lifestyle and medication adjustments, and arrange for an at-home support system.

1. Post-operative tips for nose feminization surgery  

To ensure satisfactory surgery outcomes and quick recovery, the patient needs to:

• Avoid anything that impacts the face or nose.
• Refrain from strenuous workouts that can increase blood pressure and cause excessive perspiration.
• Avoid exposing the nose to direct sunlight. If outdoors, use SPF 50+ and a broad-brimmed hat.
• Sleep with your head elevated, perform gentle massage, and use arnica sticks to help diminish swelling and bruising.
• Avoid blowing your nose and sneezing through your mouth.

Ready for Nose Feminization Surgery?

Nose feminization surgery has been successfully performed many times at Designer Bodyz. Under the roof of Designer Bodyz, meet a highly skilled and experienced facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Parag Telang. He offers affordable, tailored, and best-in-class facial feminization surgery before-and-after results achieved using advanced procedures. He and his team use the latest surgical techniques and ensure patients achieve optimal outcomes. 

If you are interested in FFS, such as feminizing rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Parag Telang at Designer Bodyz today.