A method for forming a field effect transistor device employs a conformal spacer layer formed upon a gate electrode. The gate electrode is employed as a mask for forming a lightly doped extension region within the semiconductor substrate and the gate electrode and conformal spacer layer are employed as a mask for forming a source/drain region within the semiconductor substrate. An anisotropically etched shaped spacer material layer is formed upon the conformal spacer layer and isotropically etched to enhance exposure of the source/drain region prior to forming a silicide layer thereupon.