Approach to the Transgender Patient: Preoperative Counseling, Setting Expectations, Avoiding Potential Postoperative Pitfalls

Abstract

An increasing number of transgender patients are seeking gender-affirming facial surgery, also known as facial feminization surgery. Physicians offering these services must be well versed in how to compassionately care for this patient population. We recommend having a well-informed staff that is knowledgeable about proper verbiage, use of pronouns, and preferred names for transgender patients. We also recommend helping patients to manage expectations and seek realistic goals from the first consultation. A frank discussion about the limits of facial feminization is essential. Discussing the prolonged recovery and expected outcome is of paramount importance preoperatively to avoid postoperative disappointment.

Keywords: Facial feminization surgery; Facial surgery; Preoperative counseling; Transgender.