Facial masculinization surgery is a transformative approach to gender-affirming care, designed to create stronger, more angular features that align with your identity. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marco Ellis brings more than a decade of advanced craniofacial and aesthetic expertise to every procedure at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Recognized for his refined technique and natural-looking results, Dr. Ellis tailors each treatment plan to the individual—blending surgical precision with an artistic eye to help patients feel seen, confident, and at home in their reflection.
What Is Facial Masculinization?
Facial masculinization is a combination of surgical and non-surgical procedures that enhance traditionally masculine characteristics—a defined jawline, a wider forehead, a stronger brow ridge, and a more angular nose. The World Professional Organization for Transgender Health (WPATH) recognizes these procedures as medically necessary and essential to the well-being of transgender and non-binary individuals seeking alignment between identity and appearance.
During your consultation, Dr. Ellis takes time to understand your goals and evaluate your candidacy. Depending on the condition of your stomach, he may recommend pairing the procedure with liposuction for the most refined results. Both work best for patients who are close to their goal weight.
Who Is a Candidate?
Ideal candidates are physically and emotionally healthy adults who want their outward appearance to better reflect their gender identity. During your consultation, Dr. Ellis evaluates your facial structure, skin quality, and goals to design a personalized plan. Non-smokers (or those willing to quit before surgery) tend to experience smoother recoveries and better long-term outcomes.
Procedures Commonly Included in FMS
Every face is different, and Dr. Ellis combines techniques to create balanced, masculine proportions:
- Forehead & Brow Augmentation: Implants or filler build a stronger, flatter brow ridge and widen the upper face.
- Rhinoplasty: Subtle widening and lengthening of the nose with a more angular, projected tip.
- Cheek Augmentation: Implants sculpt higher, more chiseled cheekbones.
- Jaw & Chin Enhancement: Custom implants, fat grafting, or bone work create a square, defined jawline.
- Adam’s Apple Creation: Cartilage grafting builds a visible thyroid prominence in the neck.
- Non-Surgical Refinements: Botox, fillers, and skin treatments fine-tune the result between or after surgical stages.
FMS Recovery and Results
Dr. Ellis prepares every patient with a detailed recovery roadmap, including medication to manage discomfort and strategies to minimize swelling. Most surgical results are permanent, while injectable enhancements are refreshed periodically to maintain definition. Follow-up appointments ensure healing stays on track and outcomes feel as natural as they look.
FMS Cost & Insurance
Cost varies based on the combination of procedures in your customized plan. Many health insurance policies cover part or all of gender-affirming care, and our team is happy to help you understand your benefits. Flexible financing options are also available so cost never has to stand between you and the face you’ve always pictured.
Why Choose Dr. Ellis?
Patients across Chicago choose Dr. Ellis for his blend of technical mastery, artistic sensibility, and genuine compassion. Practicing at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, he leads a team committed to privacy, respect, and outcomes that honor each patient’s individuality—from the first consultation through every stage of healing.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to take the next step in your journey? Contact Dr. Marco Ellis today at (312) 695-6022 to schedule your private consultation.