Considerations for Maximizing Perioral Aesthetics in Gender-Affirming Surgery

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Facial Aesthetics
• Gender-Affirming Surgery

Background:

• Perioral aesthetics significantly impact facial appearance and gender perception.
• Facial gender-affirming surgery (FGAS) aims to align facial features with gender identity.
• Understanding distinct perioral characteristics is crucial for FGAS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the philosophy, techniques, and evidence for perioral aesthetics in FGAS.
• To detail specific considerations for the lips, chin, and submentum in FGAS.
• To highlight differences in perioral features between masculine and feminine appearances.

Main Methods:

• Review of surgical techniques for lip feminization (e.g., subnasal lip lift, injectables).
• Discussion of chin contouring methods (e.g., T-genioplasty, virtual surgical planning).
• Exploration of submental area refinement (liposuction, platysmaplasty) and mandibular augmentation for masculinization.

Main Results:

• Masculine features: higher lip, greater labial volume, wider mouth, prominent chin, angular submentum.
• Feminine features: increased incisor show, softer/tapered chin.
• Surgical techniques can effectively alter perioral features for desired aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Tailored perioral aesthetic modifications are essential for successful FGAS.
• Individualized technique selection based on comprehensive anatomical understanding is vital.
• Attention to lips, chin, and submentum contributes to achieving desired facial masculinization and feminization.