Having a disproportionately large forehead or high hairline is a common concern for many people and is mostly due to genetics, aging, and in some cases, prior facial surgery. An oversized forehead or high hairline can wreak havoc on one’s self-esteem and confidence, and many people don’t realize there’s a fix. Forehead reduction surgery (also referred to as hairline lowering surgery) with North Raleigh facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Adam Becker, is a cosmetic procedure to shorten the height of the forehead, correct a high hairline, and provide a natural-looking, well-balanced facial profile, and restored confidence.
Read on as Dr. Becker, the renowned award-winning North Raleigh facial plastic surgeon, answers the most commonly asked questions about forehead reduction surgery.
What exactly does forehead reduction surgery entail?
It involves an incision hidden along the hairline and extending into the temple. The scalp is released and advanced down to lower the hairline. The non-hair-bearing forehead skin redundancy is removed and the incision is carefully repaired with fine sutures to produce a well-hidden scar.
Who benefits from hairline lowering/forehead reduction surgery?
People who have a naturally high hairline, large forehead, and low/heavy eyebrows. Hair thickness and no family history of balding are also important factors that are considered when determining candidacy for the procedure.
How much reduction is possible?
This will vary from patient to patient. Most patients can expect about 2 cm. Our North Raleigh facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Becker, will perform a careful evaluation and be able to give you an idea of how much you can expect.
Does forehead reduction surgery lift your brow?
No, but it can be combined with brow lift surgery to accomplish both hairline lowering and brow elevation.
Will there be visible scarring?
Yes. there will be a fine scar along the hairline. The incision fades with time and is generally hard to see.
If a family history of balding exists, are there any alternative treatment options?
Hair transplant surgery is an alternative to hairline lowering surgery and may be a better option for balding patients.
Are there any non-surgical alternatives to forehead reduction surgery?
A hairpiece or scalp tattooing are non-surgical alternatives to give the appearance of a lower hairline.
How long does it take to heal?
Initial healing takes approximately 6 weeks, though most patients are comfortable resuming normal social interactions after 2 weeks. The scar will become less and less noticeable for about 6 months to a year.
