Forehead reduction surgery, also known as hairline lowering surgery or scalp advancement, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce the height of the forehead by lowering the hairline. It is typically performed for individuals who feel their forehead is disproportionately large or that their hairline is too high. This procedure can create a more balanced facial appearance by shortening the distance between the eyebrows and the hairline.
How Forehead Reduction Surgery Works
Preoperative Marking:
The surgeon marks the new, desired hairline, typically 1 to 2 centimeters lower than the existing hairline, depending on the patient’s preference and anatomical feasibility.
Incision:
A trichophytic incision is made along the natural hairline. This type of incision is designed to allow hair to grow through the scar, making it less noticeable over time.
Scalp Advancement:
The surgeon carefully lifts the scalp and pulls it forward to cover the area of the forehead that is being reduced. Excess forehead skin is then removed.
Suturing:
The scalp is repositioned and sutured to its new, lower position. Special care is taken to ensure the hairline appears natural and the scar is minimized.
Recovery:
The procedure generally takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity, and is often done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
Recovery typically involves 1 to 2 weeks of downtime, with initial swelling and bruising around the forehead and eyes. The final results become more visible as the swelling subsides and the scar heals over the next few months.
Who is a Candidate for Forehead Reduction Surgery?
Large Forehead: People who feel that their forehead is too large or disproportionate to the rest of their facial features may opt for forehead reduction surgery.
High Hairline: Those with a naturally high hairline who want to lower it to achieve a more balanced facial appearance.
Gender Affirmation: Some transgender women or individuals undergoing feminization procedures may choose forehead reduction to create a softer, more traditionally feminine appearance.
Hair Density: Patients should have sufficient hair density and scalp laxity (the ability of the scalp to stretch) for the procedure to be effective.
Forehead Reduction vs. Hair Transplant
Forehead reduction surgery physically moves the hairline lower by advancing the scalp, whereas a hair transplant involves moving individual hair follicles to the forehead to lower the hairline.
For patients with low scalp laxity or thinning hair, a combination of forehead reduction surgery and hair transplantation may be recommended to create a natural, fuller hairline.
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Benefits of Forehead Reduction Surgery
Immediate results with a lower hairline and reduced forehead size.
Natural hair growth along the new hairline, especially with trichophytic incision techniques.
Can help improve facial harmony and self-confidence.
Risks and Considerations
Scarring: While the scar is typically hidden along the hairline and hair may grow through it, there is still a risk of visible scarring, especially if proper post-operative care is not taken.
Numbness: Temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness of the scalp may occur due to nerve disruption during surgery.
Hair Loss: Some patients may experience shock loss (temporary hair loss) near the incision site, although hair typically grows back in most cases.
Infection or Healing Issues: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection or delayed wound healing.
Recovery
Most patients can return to work after about a week to 10 days.
Swelling and bruising typically subside within two weeks.
It’s essential to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks to allow the scalp to heal properly.