Nose feminization surgery

Preparations

Rhinoplasty, in the context of facial feminization, requires that the surgeon has both a broad technical knowledge of the different surgical procedures and also thorough understanding of the keys to sexual dimorphism. This is the only way to achieve this surgery’s three goals: attaining a nose that is feminine, beautiful and which adheres to the parameters of harmony in proportion to the rest of the face. For this reason, the plastic surgeon must conduct a thorough aesthetic and artistic preliminary study to evaluate the face from all possible angles in search of facial balance.

Gender nose

Male noses are generally larger, with a more prominent and straight nasal bridge, as well as a more closed nasolabial angle. These characteristics give the face a more angular and less soft appearance. On the other hand, female noses tend to be smaller and more refined, with a subtler nasal bridge and a more open nasolabial angle, giving the face a more delicate and softer appearance. Feminization rhinoplasty aims to soften these features by reducing the prominence of the nasal bridge and adjusting the nasolabial angle.

Rhinoplasty technique

Rhinoplasty or nose feminization surgery is a highly personalized procedure. It therefore requires a precise preliminary study to evaluate cartilaginous structures, bone and skin quality, all of which form the nose.

To attain a more feminine nose for trans women, rhinoplasty is generally performed in a similar way to other cosmetic nose surgeries, likewise applying all possible expertise in functional terms to improve breathing if necessary.

The feminizing rhinoplasty technique is adapted to each patient’s needs and the prior diagnosis. This is why no two nose operations are alike. Insofar as technique, there are two types: open and closed rhinoplasty. In the case of nose surgery aimed at feminizing the face, we usually opt for the open technique. This technique enables us to manipulate all the soft tissues, allowing us to build a new feminine skeleton for the nose. Once we replace the skin over it, a feminine, harmonious, beautiful nose remains.

Procedure

Nasal bone resection and osteotomies are often necessary to reshape the bones that make up the nose. This attains a narrower, straighter, less prominent nose and a more beautiful profile. Reshaping the nasal tip is likewise key to achieving a feminine nose. We can make the domus or tip more rounded, slender, elevated or slightly upturned and youthful.

This surgery is usually performed under a general anesthesia and lasts between one and two hours. It requires an overnight stay in hospital and is often associated with other facial feminization surgeries.

Results of feminizing rhinoplasty

Trans women will be able to see the early results after 15 days and notice minor, subtle changes during the first year after surgery.

The scar, which is usually at the base of the columella, will barely be noticeable as it is millimetric and does not usually leave a visible mark.

Recovery

The patient’s recovery is quite fast. After nose feminization surgery, nasal packing is applied, removed 24–48 hours after surgery. It is important to bear in mind that depending on the person and type of operation, some bruising may appear, although this will disappear after a few days.