For many transgender and nonbinary patients, the face is where identity meets first impression. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marco Ellis offers facial feminization surgery (FFS) in Chicago at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, drawing on advanced craniofacial and aesthetic training to soften masculine features into harmonious, naturally feminine ones. Recognized by WPATH as medically necessary, FFS blends artistry with surgical precision—and Dr. Ellis is widely known for results that feel like you, only more aligned with the person you’ve always been.
What Is Facial Feminization?
Facial feminization is a personalized combination of procedures designed to refine the bone structure, soft tissue, and proportions of the face. By rounding angular features, lifting and opening the upper face, and bringing the lower third into gentler balance, FFS helps your reflection match your identity. Dr. Ellis tailors every plan to your unique anatomy, ethnicity, and goals—because feminine beauty is never one-size-fits-all.
Procedures Commonly Included
Your treatment plan may combine several refinements, including:
- Forehead contouring & brow lift – reducing the brow ridge and lifting the brow position for an open, youthful expression.
- Hairline advancement – shortening a tall forehead and softening the hairline shape.
- Rhinoplasty – narrowing the bridge, refining the tip, and creating a delicate, slightly upturned profile.
- Cheek augmentation – adding fullness to the midface with fat transfer or custom implants.
- Lip lift & lip enhancement – shortening the upper lip and adding soft, cushiony fullness.
- Jaw & chin contouring – tapering the jawline and reshaping the chin into a gentle oval.
- Tracheal shave – smoothing the Adam’s apple for a graceful, feminine neckline.
Is Facial Feminization Right for You?
Ideal candidates are in good physical and emotional health, non-smokers, and ready to align their outward appearance with their gender identity. During your private consultation, Dr. Ellis will listen to your goals, study your facial proportions in detail, and design a single-session or staged plan that fits your timeline, budget, and comfort level. Letters of support from a mental health provider may be requested in line with WPATH standards.
Facial Feminization Recovery & Results
Most patients return to light activity within one to two weeks, with swelling resolving gradually over several months. Dr. Ellis and his team guide you through every step—pain management, follow-up visits, and scar care—so healing feels fully supported. Surgical results are long-lasting and natural-looking, while injectable refinements like dermal filler can be maintained as desired.
FFS Cost & Insurance
Pricing depends on the combination of procedures you choose. Many insurance plans now cover medically necessary FFS, and our team will help verify your benefits. Flexible financing is also available, so cost doesn’t have to stand between you and the face you envision.
Why Choose Dr. Ellis?
At Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr. Ellis combines fellowship-level facial expertise, an artist’s eye, and genuine compassion for the transgender community. His patients consistently describe results that are elegant, balanced, and unmistakably their own—delivered in a private, affirming environment that protects your dignity and privacy at every visit.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to take the next step toward the face that reflects who you truly are? Call (312) 695-6022 today to book a confidential consultation with Dr. Ellis and discover what facial feminization surgery in Chicago can do for you.