FACE-Q Satisfaction Ratings Are Higher After Facial Feminization Surgery Than Hormone Replacement Therapy Alone

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is associated with improved psychological outcomes in transgender patients. We aimed to evaluate the impact of FFS on patient satisfaction with facial appearance using validated, patient-reported outcome tools.

Patients were recruited to complete a FACE-Q survey at least 6 months after their FFS. FACE-Q modules used included "Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall," "Facial Attributes" (forehead/eyebrows, nose, cheeks, cheekbone, chin, jawline, and neck), "Decision," "Outcomes," "Psychological Function," and "Social Function." "Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall" was compared to FACE-Q outcomes in transgender patients on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), alone.

Twenty-three patients completed the survey. Rhinoplasty was the most common procedure (82.6%). Insurance was rated as a major barrier in 50% of patients. "Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall" using the FACE-Q was 69.3, with "Psychological Function" rated at 73.7 and "Social Function" rated at 76.1. FFS was associated with a higher overall satisfaction in facial appearance compared to patients on HRT for 3 months (69.3 vs. 48.5, p<0.01) and 12 months, alone (69.3 vs. 54.4, p<0.001). Wait time for FFS of less than a year (β=-20.4, p=0.04) and undergoing FFS at a younger age (β=-1.4, p<0.001) were independently associated with higher satisfaction scores in overall facial appearance.

FFS is associated with greater satisfaction with overall facial appearance, especially compared to transgender patients only on HRT. Insurance was the greatest barrier to receiving FFS. Improved access to surgery is needed to yield higher overall satisfaction with facial appearance.