Forehead reduction, also known as hairline lowering surgery, is a cosmetic procedure performed to reduce the vertical length of the forehead by advancing the hairline. This surgery involves removing a strip of skin from the forehead and pulling the scalp forward, lowering the hairline to achieve a more proportional facial appearance.
Forehead reduction is most commonly requested by women who feel that their forehead appears too large or high. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 1 to 2 hours. It is especially effective for individuals with a stable hairline and good skin elasticity.
What Is Forehead Reduction?
Forehead reduction surgery aims to create facial balance by lowering the position of the hairline. A high forehead may occur naturally or as a result of hair loss, genetics, or aging. By reducing the forehead height, this surgery can help harmonize facial proportions and restore self-confidence.
The procedure is planned based on the patient’s unique anatomy. Prior to the operation, a detailed drawing is made to determine how much skin will be removed. During surgery, an incision is made along the natural hairline, and a section of forehead skin is excised. The scalp is then pulled forward and sutured in a way that conceals the incision within the hairline.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Forehead Reduction Surgery?
Forehead reduction is suitable for:
- Women with a naturally high or wide forehead
- Individuals with stable hairlines and no active hair loss
- Those seeking permanent correction rather than temporary hairstyle solutions
- It is not recommended for men with progressive male pattern baldness, as future hair loss may expose the surgical scar.
For patients who do not wish to undergo surgery, or when the forehead cannot be reduced surgically due to hair loss risks, hair transplantation is another viable option to restore the hairline.
Hair Transplant for Forehead Reduction
Forehead reduction can also be achieved through a non-surgical approach by using hair transplantation. Hair follicles are extracted from the donor area (usually the back of the head) and transplanted to the forehead area to create a new hairline. This method is suitable for both men and women and leaves no visible scar.
Hair transplant procedures for forehead narrowing are typically done using the FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) or DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) techniques. This method is preferred for patients who wish to avoid surgery or scar formation.
Recovery After Forehead Reduction Surgery
After forehead reduction surgery, patients are typically required to stay in the hospital for one night. Swelling and bruising are common but temporary. Applying cold compresses and sleeping with the head elevated using two pillows can help reduce swelling. Hair washing is not recommended for the first three days. Sutures are usually removed on the 7th day.
The scar is hidden along the hairline and tends to fade over time. In women, the scar is generally well concealed by surrounding hair. However, if male patients experience future hair loss, the scar may become more visible, which is why surgery is usually avoided in men.
Hair Growth Timeline After Hair Transplant
In cases where forehead reduction is done through hair transplantation:
- No water contact is allowed for the first three days.
- The first clinical wash is done by professionals on the third day.
- Temporary scabbing and redness may occur and subside within 7–10 days.
- Shock loss occurs in the first 2 months; new hair starts to grow after that.
- Full results and visible new hair growth can be seen by the 12th month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Forehead Reduction
1. What is forehead reduction surgery?
It is a cosmetic operation that shortens the forehead by removing a portion of skin and advancing the hairline.
2. Who is a good candidate for forehead reduction?
Women with a high forehead and no active hair loss are ideal candidates. It’s not suitable for men with pattern baldness.
3. How much can the forehead be reduced?
Generally, the hairline can be lowered by 1–3 centimeters depending on scalp flexibility and hair density.
4. Is there any visible scar?
The scar is hidden in the hairline and usually fades over time, especially in women.
5. What is the recovery time for forehead reduction?
Most patients can return to daily activities within 7–10 days. Full healing takes a few weeks.
6. What is the difference between a forehead lift and a forehead reduction?
Forehead lift lifts sagging brows and reduces wrinkles; forehead reduction lowers the hairline.
7. Can men have forehead reduction surgery?
It is generally not recommended due to the risk of visible scars if future hair loss occurs.
8. Can forehead reduction be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it can be done alongside upper eyelid surgery or hair transplantation if needed.
9. Is hair transplantation a good alternative?
Yes. It’s a non-surgical method suitable for both men and women and leaves no visible scarring.
10. How much does forehead reduction surgery cost in Turkey?
Prices vary based on the surgeon’s experience, technique, and clinic. Contact us directly for details.
