What is Forehead Reduction Surgery?
There is a procedure that can be done to minimize the area between the hairline and the eyebrows. Also known as hairline lowering, patients visit Utah Facial Plastic’s surgeons to address the concerns of larger forehead area and how this procedure works. This procedure is not as well-known but has a high patient satisfactory rate. This surgery involves moving the hairline forward, creating more balanced and harmonious proportions when it comes to the face.
Who is a Candidate for Forehead Reduction Surgery?
Patients who are likely considering a hairline lowering procedure are those who have a high forehead genetically, experiencing hair loss in the hairline, or both. A good candidate would be someone with good scalp elasticity. If one is experiencing a rapid amount of hair loss by male or female-pattern baldness, usually a hair restoration procedure like hair transplant surgery is a better option. If hair loss were to continue, there is a likely chance that the hair will continue to recede and the incision from the forehead reduction procedure would be visible at some point.
Most forehead reduction surgeries are performed on females, as the goal is to shorten the area of the forehead which tends to be a more feminine feature. Transgender patients who are going through the transitioning process from male to female opt for this procedure in conjunction with a brow bone reduction procedure. The two combined assist in a more feminine hairline as well as a less prominent forehead. When evaluating males for a forehead reduction procedure, there would have to be no family history of hair loss that would potentially reveal the scar.
Desired Results and Good Candidates
Forehead reduction surgery, also referred to as hairline lowering surgery, helps people modify their facial features by reducing the length of their forehead. As a result, patients have more balanced facial proportions. Ideal candidates for this procedure are those looking to reduce their forehead length, have good overall health and realistic expectations.
During a consultation with a plastic surgeon, patients should express their desired results while listening to the professional’s advice on what is achievable based on individual facial anatomy. The surgeon will perform an evaluation and present possible surgical options, including the degree of hairline lowering needed. To achieve optimal results, it’s vital that both the patient and surgeon agree on the final outcome.
Moreover, good candidates must be in good health – absence of bleeding disorders or chronic illnesses – and not smoke since smoking can hinder post-surgical healing processes. Age isn’t a determining factor; anyone over 18 years who meets all health requirements has candidate eligibility.
For instance, consider someone with a high hairline due to genetics but is perfectly healthy and has realistic expectations for the results of this procedure. This person would make an ideal candidate for forehead reduction surgery.
How Does Forehead Reduction Surgery Work?
Forehead reduction surgery takes approximately 2-3 hours and is mostly done under general anesthesia. Sometimes other cosmetic procedures like a brow lift are added on to combine downtime and recovery as well as saving money.
An incision is made on the hairline and the scalp is loosened in a way that will be pulled forward. Generally, 1-3 cm are removed, but this varies on the anatomy and discretion of the surgeon. It is important to find a board-certified facial plastic surgeon so that the results will be as natural as possible.
There is a possibility that the scalp skin and tissues might not be as elastic as assumed, in this case the surgeon will do what is best to avoid a stretched scar. There could be a healing process and a possibility of a second procedure once you are healed from the first procedure. The surgeon will then likely use 2 layers of sutures for closing the incision in a way that it is thin and narrow. The incision will be covered with a surgical bandage following the procedure.
What is Forehead Reduction Recovery Like?
Recovering from any surgery highly depends on the surgery itself and the individual having the procedure, but there are some general guidelines when recovering from forehead reduction surgery.
- Downtime from work and social activity is usually 1 week
- Exercise can be resumed 2-3 weeks after surgery, with caution
- Incision care and cleaning will be recommended
- Sutures are removed at 1 week following the procedure
- Sleeping slightly elevated is recommended for 1-2 weeks to help with swelling
- Scar cream, sunscreen, and makeup can be applied once the incision is healed and closed
- Scarring can take 3 months or longer to fully heal, but can be camouflaged or hidden in the meantime
Forehead Reduction Recovery Timeline and Tips
The recovery period following any surgical procedure can be a challenging one, both physically and mentally. The same applies to forehead reduction surgery. Therefore, it’s vital to have an understanding of the recovery timeline and tips for optimal recovery after the surgery.
Generally, patients can expect the initial swelling to begin subsiding within two weeks post-surgery. However, complete recovery from forehead reduction surgery can take up to six months or even more.
During the first two weeks of your recovery, you’ll experience swelling and bruising around the forehead area. You may even develop some drainage as well as scalp tightness. This is pretty normal and not something to worry about.
By week three, it’s common for most swelling and scabbing around the incision area to subside. You may resume light exercising at this point to increase blood flow in the scalp. However, it’s essential that you avoid heavy lifting, bending your head down or exerting yourself in any way that could impact your healing.
There are differences among experts when it comes to resuming work post-surgery. Some professionals recommend taking a break from work for at least two weeks while others recommend going back earlier than two weeks.
It’s crucial not to rush returning to regular activities without prior consultation with your surgeon, as this could negatively impact your healing process and lead to additional complications. Think of it like tending to a freshly planted sapling – premature disturbance could cause irreversible damage.
Furthermore, ensure that you get enough rest during your recovery period, and avoid smoking cigarettes or consuming alcohol since they restrict blood supply thereby prolonging the duration of healing.
It’s also beneficial that you maintain a healthy diet consisting of nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables. This will help in stimulating cell growth while providing sufficient protein intake for healing purposes.
Lastly, follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently. These usually include steps such as keeping the incision site clean and wearing a protective headband to minimize swelling.
As you can see, recovery from forehead reduction surgery is crucial and requires patience, diligence, and commitment to your doctor’s plan. In the next section, we’ll explore other frequently asked questions regarding forehead reduction surgery.
Recovery from forehead reduction surgery is a gradual process that requires adequate rest, attention to dietary needs and taking personal care. The surgeon’s post-operative instructions should be followed diligently for optimal results. Understanding the recovery timeline alongside other self-care tips will ensure a positive outcome in the long run.
Finding the Right Surgeon to Do Your Forehead Reduction Surgery
Forehead reduction surgery is generally a very safe procedure, but with any surgery there are always risks. It is best to consider a surgeon who is well trained and experienced in the anatomy of the face and neck. Some of the risks associated with this procedure may include: bleeding, bruising, scarring, asymmetry, numbness, infection, temporary or permanent hair loss. It is important to find a highly qualified surgeon to help reduce risks and provide a well healing, natural result.
Utah Facial Plastic’s surgeons are specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the face and neck. Many patients in Utah and all over the United States travel to have facial procedures done at Utah Facial Plastics. With over 35 years of combined experience, 1500 plus 5-star reviews, and an on-site state of the art surgical suite, patients are in the right hands when it comes to their face.
Forehead Reduction Surgery Resources
- Could You Benefit from a Forehead Reduction?
- Is a Forehead Reduction Right for Me?
- What to Know Before Getting Forehead Reduction Surgery
- Forehead Lift Before & After Photos
- Forehead Reduction or Hair Transplant?
To learn more about forehead and face procedures in the Salt Lake City, Draper, or Layton areas, fill out our consultation form or contact us at 801-776-2220.