The Process Before FFS: What You Need to Know About the Preparation Phase

Facial feminization(FFS) is a physically and emotionally transformative experience for anyone who wants to highlight their feminine features, especially trans women. However, the most important and first step of this process is the preparation phase before the FFS process.

Being equipped with the right information and preparing yourself physically and mentally for this process directly affects both the success of the operation and the healing process. In order to be sufficiently motivated and focused on the FFS process, it is extremely important for you to consider the preparation phase in detail. So what will you encounter before FFS, which stages should you go through? Let’s examine it together.

1. Comprehensive Research and Surgeon Selection

The first step of the FFS process is preparation, and the first step of the preparation process is to find a surgeon experienced in facial feminization. Each surgeon’s approach, technique and aesthetic understanding may be different, but finding a surgeon who specializes in FFS and who frequently works with trans women is essential for good results. For this reason:

• Review previous patient outcomes.
• Arrange consultations.
• Choose a specialist with open communication who can offer suggestions suitable for your facial features.
• There are surgeons and clinics specializing in facial feminization in Turkey, especially in cities such as Antalya and Istanbul, which accept international patients.

2. Detailed Consultation and Accurate Facial Analysis

In the preparatory phase, the preliminary consultation is important to give you some idea of the process. Your surgeon during the preliminary interview:

• Analyzes your facial structure in detail.
• He/she evaluates which procedures can be applied and the needs of your face (e.g. forehead filing, chin contouring, hairline arrangement) and presents them in the clearest way.
• He listens to your expectations and creates a customized plan for you.

At this stage, it is very important to be honest and express your expectations clearly. It is also critical for the safety of the process that you share your past health information completely.

3. Personalized Medical Preparations and Tests

Your general state of health is vital before starting the FFS process. For this reason, an expert and careful surgeon will request some tests that show your general health condition before surgery:

• Blood tests
• Chest X-ray
• ECG (heart check)
• Assessment of suitability for anesthesia

In some cases, the hormone levels of individuals on hormone therapy may also be checked. Your surgeon will also advise you whether you should stop hormone therapy shortly before surgery.

4. Psychological Preparation and Support

FFS is not only an aesthetic but also an identity-affirming, sensitive process. For individuals undergoing gender transition, it may be more important to feel psychologically prepared and supported. For this reason:

• It may be helpful to work with a therapist or support group to process the process emotionally.
• Establishing a healthy balance between expectations and actual outcomes can prevent disappointment later on.
• Remember, your emotions may be complicated during this step and this is natural. Remember to be kind to yourself.

5. Preoperative Planning and Preparation

As you get closer to the surgery date, making some practical preparations can help control stress and anxiety. This stage is also important for a more comfortable facial feminization. For preparation, it may be necessary to pay attention to the following:

• Quitting smoking and alcohol at least 2 weeks in advance
• Stopping blood thinners (under doctor’s supervision)
• Pack loose button-down pajamas, drinks with straws, soft foods
• Arrange for a companion to support the recovery process
• Also, taking photos before and after the operation will be very useful to observe the progress.

6. Consistency between Realistic Expectations and Your Own Expectations

Facial feminization is a big step, but it is not a magical transformation. No matter how skilled the surgeon is, your natural facial structure and tissue characteristics also influence the outcome of the process. For this reason:

• It is important to develop a realistic perspective about the final results before surgery.
• You should not forget that your goal is not aesthetic, but identity harmony.

Preparation is Half the Success in FFS

The pre-FFS process is a kind of reshaping of your bond with yourself and your expectations. Every step you take as you prepare for a major transformation in your body, mind and life will lead you to a more peaceful and quality future.
When you set out with knowledge, support and trust, this process turns into not only a surgical but also a spiritual healing journey. At this point, working with a professional team and getting support from a successful surgeon is the secret.

Follow our blog for more. You can also reach us on our contact page for any questions you may have. Ffs center is an LGBT community friendly organization.