Transformation and harmony: understanding feminisation and masculinisation surgery

Dr Arie Azuelos' blog in Paris

In the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery, feminisation and masculinisation surgeries play a crucial role for many people seeking to harmonise their outward appearance with their gender identity. Combining medical expertise and artistic flair, these procedures are designed to transform physical features to make them more feminine or masculine, depending on the patient’s individual needs.

Procedures associated with feminisation surgery

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation in the context of feminisation surgery is a crucial procedure that has a significant impact on the patient’s overall figure. Using breast implants, this procedure aims to develop a feminine chest, contributing to the body’s balance and harmony. Implants can vary in size and shape, depending on the patient’s aesthetic goals and personal preferences, as well as the anatomical considerations unique to each individual. Implants are carefully inserted to ensure a natural, proportionate appearance. What’s more, this surgery plays an important role in improving the patient’s self-esteem and helping them to establish their feminine identity. Personalised support is provided throughout the process, from implant selection to post-operative follow-up, to ensure that the results match expectations and make a positive contribution to the patient’s self-image.

Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS

Rhinoplasty is often performed to refine the nose, making it more delicate and proportionate to the female face;
Forehead surgery includes smoothing the bony prominence and raising the eyebrows to create a softer, more rounded forehead, typical of feminine features;
Modification of the jawline and chin aims to soften pronounced angles, aligning the shape of the face with more feminine features.

Adam's apple reduction surgery

This procedure reduces the size of the Adam’s apple to achieve a smoother, less angular neck, in keeping with feminine aesthetics.

Voice surgery

Specific techniques are used to modify the tone and resonance of the voice, making it higher pitched and in harmony with the patient’s feminine identity.

Procedures associated with masculinisation surgery

Torsoplasty

This surgical technique is designed to reshape the torso, removing excess skin and fatty tissue and repositioning the remaining structures to achieve a more masculine appearance. This essential surgical procedure involves the removal of breast tissue to create a flat, masculine chest, a central element of male identity.

Body contouring surgery

Liposuction is often used to reshape the hips and waist, reducing curves and creating a straighter silhouette, typical of the male body.
The use of muscle implants, particularly in the pectoral region, can accentuate muscular features for a more masculine appearance.

Facial surgery

Les interventions de chirurgie faciale dans le cadre d’une masculinisation peuvent inclure l’accentuation de la mâchoire, le renforcement du menton et la création ou l’exagération de la pomme d’Adam pour obtenir des traits du visage plus masculins.

Social security cover

In France, Social Security cover for feminising and masculinising surgery depends on specific criteria. Patients often have to follow an established medical and psychological pathway, and the procedures must be recognised as necessary for gender transition. It is vital to seek advice from qualified professionals and consult the latest Social Security guidelines to understand how these procedures are covered.