Plastic surgery was once considered a taboo topic. People didn’t want others to know about their surgeries because they feared being called vain.
The truth is that vanity is rarely the reason people pursue cosmetic procedures anymore. Most people simply want to enhance their natural appearance and adjust it slightly to help themselves feel more confident in their bodies.
And that’s just what Jinkx Monsoon did when she had facial feminization surgery.
A two-time RuPaul’s Drag Race winner, Jinkx is well-known among reality show viewers and the LGBTQ+ community. Broadway performances and a role in season 14 of the British Sci-Fi hit Doctor Who have positioned Jinkx in an even broader spotlight.
Jinkx identifies as a trans-feminine non-binary person. She recently underwent facial feminization surgery, saying it’s a “privilege” to receive HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and gender-affirming care.
What Is Facial Feminization Surgery?
FFS (facial feminization surgery) is a group of procedures surgeons can perform individually or simultaneously. It aims to create a feminine and delicate appearance to facial features that appear more masculine. It’s a popular option among those seeking gender confirmation surgery and cisgender women who want to feminize their features.
Facial Feminization Procedures
While we can confirm that Jinkx Monsoon had FFS, we can’t say which procedures she chose. Instead, we’ll provide a rundown of the available options so you can decide what may be right for you.
Those assigned the male gender at birth typically have a noticeable feature in their neck called an Adam’s Apple. This area of cartilage is not removable because it is so close to the vocal cords. Instead, your surgeon will carefully shave down the cartilage in this area to produce less visibility of this masculine feature.
Do you have a prominent jawline? Is it angular and very much male in its appearance? Facial feminization surgery can help with that, too! Your surgeon can reshape your jaw by shaving the bones into a curved, feminine shape.
Maybe you have sharp cheekbones–or hardly any cheek definition at all. Either way, FFS can include cheek implants. These implants will create a rounded contour to your upper face, helping you achieve that feminine look.
Have you ever noticed that your hairline has a winged or “m” shape? That’s a traditionally masculine trait. Opt for hairline feminization during your FFS to get a rounder hairline that further feminizes your face.
Men tend to have deeply set eyes, partly due to the density of the male bone structure. An orbital bone reduction shaves and shapes the bones around your eyes, making your eyes a more prominent facial feature.
Almost all females want full lips. Whether you’re a transgender woman or a cisgender woman, lip augmentation can give you a pouty set of lips that will pair fantastically with your favorite shade of lipstick (or lipgloss–whatever your preference). You can choose a long-term option like implants, or if you’re hesitant, you can try temporary lip filler to help you get a feel for what you want from lip augmentation.
- Rhinoplasty
One of the facial features people tend to notice first is the nose. Broad, large noses are traditionally masculine and may give people the wrong idea about your gender. During facial feminization surgery, your surgeon will reshape your nose to form a delicate and feminine focal point.
- Brow Lift
Another masculine feature is a large forehead. As part of your FFS, a brow lift will raise your eyebrows from just below the brow bone (masculine) to a position even with the bone (feminine). This procedure helps create a smaller, less expansive forehead.
Will You Need Every FFS Procedure Available?
If you’re a good candidate for facial feminization surgery, every procedure will likely be open to you. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need them all. At your consultation, talk to your surgeon about the areas of your face that look the most masculine. The surgeon will then suggest procedures based on your wants and any additional areas in which they think alterations will help achieve your overall goals.
Choose The Facial Feminization That’s Right For You
As more celebrities like Jinkx Monsoon are opening up about their facial feminization procedures, they’re also leading the way for others to follow them. Though FFS is highly personal and no two paths are the same, people of the transgender and LGBTQ+ communities can follow the lead of high-profile members when it comes to seeking gender-affirming care.
Remember to choose the surgeon you feel most comfortable with, only seek care from a qualified professional, and be kind to yourself throughout your facial feminization journey.
