Forehead Reduction and Hairline Lowering Surgery

Forehead shape and hairline position contribute to overall facial proportions. Some individuals with a high hairline or larger forehead may seek options to adjust its position

Forehead Reduction and Hairline Lowering Surgery: A Surgical Option for Adjusting Hairline Position

Overview

As people age, and in some younger individuals with genetic predisposition, hairline recession may contribute to a larger forehead. Advances in surgical techniques have made hairline lowering procedures an option for individuals seeking to adjust their hairline position.

Forehead reduction surgery, or hairline lowering surgery, is a procedure that repositions the hairline forward (anteriorly). This surgery may be considered by individuals looking to change the proportions of their forehead and hairline. Results vary, and factors such as healing and hair growth patterns can influence the final outcome.

Factors to Consider

A key factor in forehead reduction surgery is scalp flexibility, as a more flexible scalp may allow for greater hairline adjustment.

Other factors to consider include:

• Hair density and growth patterns
• The presence of hair whorls or cowlicks
• Any existing or hereditary hair loss

Hairline lowering surgery can be performed alongside brow lift surgery, but the two procedures do not necessarily need to be combined. It is important to note that hairline lowering does not inherently elevate the brows.

How is Hairline Reduction Surgery Performed?

The procedure involves making an irregular incision 2-3mm behind the current hairline, allowing the hair-bearing scalp to be repositioned forward. A trichophytic incision technique is used to help hair grow through the incision during healing.

A strip of forehead skin is then removed. In many cases, fixation to the bone may be used to stabilise the hairline position and reduce tension on the incision. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.

What is the Recovery Process?

After surgery, individuals typically notice a change in hairline position immediately, though swelling and healing will continue in the weeks following. Most individuals resume work within two weeks.

• Numbness and tingling around the incision site is common and may persist for several weeks to months.
• A wrap is applied to the forehead to help reduce swelling, and a cold compress may be used in the first few days.
• Any discomfort at the incision site can typically be managed with pain medication.
• Stitches are usually removed within 7-10 days, and follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing.

Individuals may be advised to wear a fringe to help conceal the incision line for the first few months. Application of silicone scar gel or tapes is also generally advised to improve the appearance of the scar. Many are able to wear their hair back within six weeks.

Who May Consider Hairline Reduction Surgery?

Both men and women who feel their forehead size or hairline position does not align with their facial proportions may consider this procedure. Candidates should be in good overall health and not smoke.