Deciding on Forehead Feminization Surgery is a personal choice. Testosterone exposure during puberty affects facial bone structure differently for everyone. Still, common changes include a thicker brow, slightly hooded eye sockets, and forward bone growth in the forehead region.

From research done during the COVID-19 pandemic when coverage of the lower two-thirds of the face was required, we know that the forehead region plays an important role in gender recognition.

You can consider forehead feminizing surgery if you feel like your forehead is a major source of dysphoria or causes you to be misgendered.

At Catalyst Surgical, we use the ForeContour method developed by Facialteam.

This method is a ‘type III’ forehead feminization approach. Using a 3D CT scan, we plan precise modifications to your forehead and brow.

A hidden incision behind the crown allows access to reshape the forehead and eye sockets while preserving the supraorbital nerve. If needed, we use an ultrasonic saw to free the nerve from its bony canal.

We remove, contour, and reposition the anterior wall of the frontal sinus, securing it with titanium plates or mesh if necessary. High-speed burs refine the forehead and eye sockets, reducing testosterone-driven bone growth.

These changes naturally elevate the brows, sometimes reinforced with a brow lift, creating a softer, more feminine profile across all ethnicities.

After surgery, you’ll stay with us overnight for observation. Your drain will be removed the next morning. You can eat after the surgery, though this may be difficult depending on other procedures.

On day 1, you’ll see our lymphatic drainage specialist to reduce swelling. We’ll review post-op care with you and your caregiver before discharge. In one week, you’ll return for a second drainage session and suture removal.

Swelling and bruising vary, but most bruising fades within weeks. Limit activity to brisk walks, as intense exercise can worsen swelling. After 6-8 weeks, you can gradually increase activity.

We schedule follow-ups at 1 week, then at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, adjusting as needed. Swelling takes months to resolve—most subsides by 3 months, but final results take up to a year as tissues settle over the recontoured bone.

The range of prices depends on the surgeon and patient characteristics. At Catalyst Surgical, Forehead Feminization Surgery starts at $24,590.

The following services are included in our quotes:

• Post-operative visits and nursing care
• Pre-operative consultation, standard pre-operative preparation
• Material costs
• Costs for the surgical facility and general anesthesia
• 1 night in our facility
• Lymphatic drainage therapy
• 24-hour post-surgical support