Surgical Hairline Lowering (Advancement) and Forehead Reduction by Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Buonassisi in Vancouver, BC
Surgical hairline lowering is a procedure that advances the natural hairline, shortening the distance between the hairline to the eyebrows. The surgery is performed by Dr. Thomas Buonassisi, a Board Certified Facial Plastic & Reconstructive surgery with 18+ years performing cosmetic face, head and neck surgery. Hairline lowering is also known as scalp advancement or forehead reduction surgery.
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Who is a Candidate for Hairline or Forehead Reduction Surgery
Hairline lowering surgery is most commonly performed on female and transitioning female patients with a congenitally high hairline. It is important to note that this procedure is not appropriate for men experiencing male pattern baldness causing a receding hairline. This procedure, however, is commonly also requested by patients undergoing facial feminization surgery (FFS).
How Much Advancement or Lowering is Possible with Hairline Lowering Surgery?
The amount of advancement depends on several variables such as pre-operative hairline height, scalp laxity, and the patient's preferences. Dr. Buonassisi evaluates the patient's scalp mobility during their surgical consultation. Out of town patients may submit a video of themselves manipulating their scalp so that Dr. Buonassisi can provide a preliminary assessment. Our team of patient care managers will provide instructions for creating this video.
Hairline Lowering Surgery for Facial Feminization
Hairline lowering surgery is also commonly requested by patients undergoing facial feminization surgery (FFS). The shape of the hairline is altered, creating a low, feminine hairline. For MTF (male to female) patients this procedure is also often combined with laryngeal shave to reduce a prominent Adam's apple.
The Role of Scalp Laxity in Hairline Lowering Surgery
Achieving great results with this surgery requires that Dr. Buonassisi find the right balance between patient expectations and anatomical limitations. The patient's scalp laxity is a primary determinant of the extent of hairline advancement that can be achieved.
About the Hairline Lowering Surgery Itself
Hairline lowering is typically performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Dr. Buonassisi marks the anticipated postoperative hairline prior to surgery. The new hairline can be tailored to the patient's preferences and is designed to mimic a natural hairline. During the surgery, the excess forehead and/or scalp is excised and the scalp is advanced to the new hairline. Dr. Buonassisi designs the incisions trichophytically so that hair regrows through and in front of the eventual hairline scar, making it nearly imperceptible. Sometimes Dr. Buonassisi will use implantable devices to secure the scalp to the bone at its new forward location, closing the wound with 2 layers of sutures.
Recovering from Hairline Reduction Surgery
Most patients tolerate the procedure very well and pain is easily managed with pain medication for the first three or four days. Typically patients take 1 - 2 weeks off work.
Next Steps
If you are considering forehead reduction surgery, please request a complimentary pre consultation with our of our patient care managers. We will answer all your questions about surgery and help determine if a consultation with Dr. Buonassisi is the appropriate next step for you. Out of town patients may like to take advance of our online consultation with Dr. Buonassisi.