Rhinoplasty for facial feminization after gender reassignment

The nose is a very distinctive component of our face. In men, the nose is typically more prominent and larger than it is in women. To permit a feminization of the face, it is often necessary to reduce the nose size. This means that rhinoplasty is an important building block on the path from the biological man to the biological woman as well.

Typically man, typically woman: this is how the nose differs between the sexes

A big nose is considered a sign of masculinity. Men's noses are on average 10 percent larger than women's noses are.

As an explanation for this phenomenon, researchers have found that the male body needs more oxygen due to its higher muscle mass. A larger nose is able to hold more air per breath.

This is why the typically male nose is longer and larger than the narrower, more delicate nose of women. These differences usually develop during the period of puberty at the latest. A big nose automatically makes the face look more masculine.

By means of the reduction of the nose size, we can make the originally male face look more feminine.

What methods are available for a nose correction for facial feminization?

There are three different surgical methods for rhinoplasty at his disposal of the surgeon.

The open nose correction as an invasive intervention

With this surgical technique, the surgeon makes a minor incision so to expose the nose. This allows the soft nose tissue to be moved upwards by changing it in its position.
The nose obtains a new shape without affecting its function.
A disadvantage of this surgical technique is that it is an invasive intervention which can increase the risk of complications. In addition, a minor scar will be left.

The closed nose correction as a minimally invasive procedure

With this technique, the intervention will be performed through the nostrils. In this manner, small bumps and uneven points can be removed. However, the nose shape cannot be fundamentally changed. This intervention will not result in any visible scars.

Correction of the nose tip

Many patients suffer from a deformed nose tip which is either too big, too small or has grown crooked. However, it is exactly this nose tip which has a significant effect on the facial expressions and gestures of the entire face.
An intervention can raise or lower the nose tip. This is also a minimally invasive intervention resulting in comparatively low costs.

Should a rhinoplasty be performed after every gender reassignment?

It is crucial that the structure of the nose as a whole fits into the face and into the new identity as well. Persons having a distinctly masculine nose and feeling uncomfortable with it can achieve huge results by reducing its size.

Through an intervention, a typical male nose can be adapted to a female face structure. What can actually be done depends on the individual anatomical requirements.

What risks does the rhinoplasty involve?

The rhinoplasty is one of the routine interventions carried out in our beauty clinic. For many years we have been performing gender-specific operations by accompanying our patients on their way to gender reassignment.

In most cases, one intervention suffices to achieve the desired result.

In rare cases, it may happen that the tip of the nose drops after the operation and a further correction is needed.

The surgeon informs the patient in advance about the usual surgical risks which may arise under a general anaesthetic.

What are the side-effects of a nose correction for the face feminization?

The common surgical risks include:

• Swelling of the face
• Bruising around the eyes, cheeks, and eyelids
• Subsequent bleeding
• Obstruction of the nasal breathing

These side-effects usually disappear within 2 to 4 weeks.

Does the health insurance company cover the costs of the rhinoplasty?

No, it does not. The nose correction in the context of the facial feminization is usually not covered by the health insurance. The health insurance companies consider it an aesthetic intervention.

The costs will only be covered if a crooked nose causes important breathing problems or if other medical restrictions are diagnosed by a physician.