The evolution of a large-scale facial gender affirmation program: A comparative outcomes analysis

Background

The volume of facial feminization surgery (FFS) performed has increased tremendously over the last decade as new gender affirmation programs have formed. Advancements in surgical planning and treatment protocols have resulted in complex, multiprocedural FFS operations. This study examines the characteristics and outcomes of a large-scale FFS program over a 5-year lifespan.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients who underwent FFS in a high-volume integrated healthcare system from program initiation in 2018–2019 (early cohort) to maturation in 2021–2022 (late cohort). Patient charts were reviewed for demographic factors, operative details, complications, postoperative Emergency Department or Urgent Care (ED/UC) visits, revisions, and readmissions. Patient characteristics and outcomes were compared between early and late cohorts.

Results

A total of 191 patients were included, with 109 in the early cohort and 82 in the late cohort. Patient demographics were similar except mean age (40.3 years early cohort versus 36.3 years late cohort, p = 0.03). Patients in the late cohort had longer operations (5.40 h versus 6.16 h, p = 0.008), with a greater percentage of patients receiving genioplasty, rhinoplasty, fat grafting, or lip lift. Despite this, fewer patients in the late cohort were admitted postoperatively (62.4% versus 13.4%, p < 0.001). There were no differences in total complications, minor complications, revisions, ED/UC visits, or readmissions. However, major complications were significantly more common in the early cohort (4.6% versus 0.0%, p = 0.05).

Conclusion

As a nascent FFS program matures, the number of procedures in a single operation increased along with operative length. Major complications and postoperative admission rates decreased while total complications remained low.