Facial Feminization » FFS Surgeons
Advertising Partner
Dr. C. Carson Huynh
Atlanta’s Facial Feminization Expert Surgeon
Dr. Carson Huynh, MD, DMD, FACS, is widely regarded as one of the leading facial feminization surgeons in the Southeast. With more than 15 years of surgical experience and dual board certification in both maxillofacial and facial plastic surgery, he offers patients a rare combination of technical mastery and artistic vision. His advanced training in medicine, facial aesthetics, and dentistry allows him to approach every procedure with a deep understanding of both bone structure and soft tissue harmony.
Dr. Huynh has lectured nationally on facial aesthetic surgery. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, and the American College of Surgeons.
Patients turn to Dr. Huynh not only for his surgical expertise, but also for his reputation for concealing scars and creating natural-looking results. From hidden incisions in the hairline to the bullhorn lip lift technique that tucks the scar beneath the nose, his attention to detail ensures that results are as discreet as they are transformative.
Philosophy of Care
Dr. Huynh believes that facial feminization is about creating balance, harmony, and results that affirm each patient’s identity. Every consultation is highly individualized, incorporating Virtual Surgical Planning and careful discussion to ensure patients feel confident in the surgical plan. His approach emphasizes:
- Natural proportion rather than overcorrection
- Concealed incisions for minimal visible scarring
- Facial harmony, ensuring all procedures complement one another
Virtual Surgical Planning
Dr. Huynh incorporates Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) into his facial feminization procedures to enhance precision and predictability. VSP uses 3D imaging and specialized software to create detailed models of a patient’s facial anatomy, allowing Dr. Huynh to simulate surgical outcomes and plan bone-contouring procedures, such as forehead, jaw, chin, and orbital rim contouring, with exceptional accuracy. Patient-specific 3D-printed guides and plates derived from VSP models help ensure precise cuts, symmetrical results, and proper stabilization during surgery. By combining VSP with his surgical expertise, Dr. Huynh can achieve highly customized, natural-looking results while reducing operative time and supporting safer, more efficient recoveries.
Facial Feminization Procedures
Forehead Contouring & Hairline Advancement
One of the cornerstones of FFS, forehead contouring reduces prominent brow bossing and reshapes the orbital rims for a softer look. Dr. Huynh frequently combines this with hairline advancement, carefully placing the incision along the natural hairline so that, as it heals, it blends seamlessly with the surrounding hair. The result is a smoother forehead and a shorter, more feminine-appearing upper face.
Brow Lift
By elevating the brows and opening up the eyes, a brow lift contributes to a more youthful and feminine appearance. Dr. Huynh customizes the degree of lift to avoid an exaggerated or “surprised” look, instead restoring natural arch and balance.
Feminizing Rhinoplasty
The nose plays a central role in facial gender expression. Dr. Huynh performs rhinoplasty with an eye for creating softer contours, refining the bridge and tip, and ensuring the nose complements surrounding features. His dual expertise in maxillofacial and facial plastic surgery gives him unique insight into maintaining both form and function.
Cheek Augmentation
High, contoured cheekbones are a hallmark of feminine beauty. Using implants or fat grafting, Dr. Huynh creates more projection and balance in the midface, enhancing both profile and front-facing appearance.
Lip Lift
A shortened upper lip is often associated with a more feminine aesthetic. Dr. Huynh uses the bullhorn lip lift technique, hiding the incision at the base of the nose where it is virtually invisible. This not only shortens the distance between the upper lip and nose but also increases tooth show when smiling.
Chin & Jawline Contouring
Square or prominent jaws and chins can be softened through bone reduction or reshaping, producing a narrower and more delicate lower face. Dr. Huynh tailors his approach to each patient, maintaining natural balance while creating a distinctly feminine contour.
Tracheal Shave
To reduce the appearance of the Adam’s apple, Dr. Huynh performs tracheal shave surgery through a small incision concealed in a natural neck crease. His careful technique minimizes scarring and preserves vocal cord safety.
Eyelid Surgery
Upper and lower eyelid surgery can refresh the eyes and complement other feminization procedures by reducing heaviness or puffiness. Dr. Huynh’s conservative approach avoids an overdone appearance, focusing on subtle rejuvenation.
What Patients Can Expect
Consultations with Dr. Huynh are highly personalized. Patients may choose in-person or virtual appointments, during which surgical options are discussed in detail, and computer imaging may be used to preview possible results.
Recovery times vary depending on the combination of procedures, but most patients plan for 2–3 weeks of downtime after comprehensive FFS. Swelling typically subsides within several months, with final results continuing to refine over the course of a year.
Traveling to See Dr. Huynh
Patients frequently travel to Atlanta from across the United States and internationally for Dr. Huynh’s expertise in facial feminization surgery. East Coast patients, in particular, benefit from the convenience of his strategic locations in Atlanta and New York City, avoiding the long-distance travel to West Coast surgeons. Direct flights from major cities such as Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charlotte, and Miami make access easy, while lower travel costs compared with California-based surgeons help reduce expenses. Dr. Huynh’s team provides full support for out-of-town patients, assisting with accommodations, travel logistics, and both in-person and virtual follow-ups.
Patient Experiences
"Thank you to the team at Radiance for being a large part of my gender journey. From consultation to surgery and after surgery healing your team made the entire process of my Facial Feminization as easy as possible." — Brynn G., July 2025. Source: Google Reviews.
Consultations for Facial Feminization in Atlanta
Consultations with Dr. Huynh are available in person, virtually, and by phone. The consultation fee is $150, which is applied toward the cost of surgery if you proceed. Payment options include cash, check, credit card, and financing programs such as CareCredit. Most commercial insurance plans are also accepted, as well as Medicaid and Medicare. See the following FAQ for detailed guidance on insurance coverage for facial feminization surgery.
Dr. Huynh accepts insurance from a variety of commercial and Medicaid plans, and the following FAQ provides detailed guidance on coverage for facial feminization surgery.
Ready to book a consultation for facial feminization in Atlanta? Contact Dr. Huynh's office here.
FFS & Insurance Coverage FAQ
Does commercial or employer-sponsored insurance cover FFS in Georgia?
Many plans may cover FFS if it’s medically necessary, but coverage can vary. Commercial insurers (like Anthem, Aetna, United Healthcare, or Cigna) and large employer self-insured plans (like Delta, AT&T, Amazon, or Google) often follow WPATH guidelines. Federal protections under Title VII and ACA Section 1557 prevent insurers from categorically excluding gender-affirming care.
Does Medicaid cover FFS in Georgia?
Yes. Following the 2022 Thomas v. Georgia DCH settlement, Georgia Medicaid covers medically necessary gender-affirming surgeries, including facial procedures. Coverage may vary depending on your Medicaid plan, such as CareSource, Peach State, Amerigroup, or WellCare.
What are the requirements for insurance coverage?
While specific requirements vary by plan, most insurers require:
- Being 18 years or older and able to consent
- A diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a qualified behavioral health provider
- Supporting documentation or letters from medical or mental health providers
- Evidence that facial features are significantly different from your identified gender
- Typically, 12 months of hormone therapy (unless medically contraindicated)
- Prior authorization from the insurer
What challenges should I expect in Georgia?
Patients seeking facial feminization surgery in Georgia may face a few challenges. Some insurers still classify FFS as cosmetic, which can result in initial denials. However, denials are often reversible when supported by proper documentation, WPATH-compliant letters, and a structured appeals process.
How do I secure coverage for FFS?
- Review your plan documents for exclusions related to cosmetic surgery or gender-affirming care
- Contact your insurer to confirm coverage and requirements
- Consult with Minh, Dr. Huynh’s LGBTQ+ patient liaison and insurance coordinator, who can assist with preauthorization and other insurance questions
- Gather all necessary documentation: letters from mental health professionals, physician notes, and surgeon letters with photos
- File an appeal if coverage is denied, citing medical necessity, WPATH standards, and federal/state protections (ACA Section 1557, Title VII)
- Seek guidance from advocacy organizations if needed, such as Georgia Equality or the ACLU of Georgia
Who can help if my coverage is denied?
Advocacy organizations like the ACLU of Georgia, Advocates for Trans Equality, or Georgia Equality can assist with appeals. You can also file complaints with the Georgia Office of the Insurance Commissioner or CMS if discrimination is suspected.