| FPL | Forehead Reduction Surgery |
|---|---|
| Procedure | Forehead reduction ("foreheadplasty", "frontoplasty", "hairline lowering") advances the hairline in order to reduce a high forehead. A distance of 4-5 cm between eyebrows and the forehead-hairline is often considered to be attractive. In most patients a forehead reduction of 1-2.5cm can be performed. The definite amount depends on individual elasticity and excess of your skin that can safely be advanced and is not entirely predictable or plannable. I use a serrated (= zig-zag shaped) scar which is usually less obvious than a straight scar line. The wounds are repaired with sutures under the skin which do not require removal and dissolve within four to six months. External staples are also often used which preserve hair follicles better and are removed after about one week. I do not use drains routinely. This operation is less suitable for patients with thin or thinning hair since the scar can be or become more noticeable. The procedure can also lift the eyebrows but is not designed for this purpose. |
| Scars | Serrated along the forehead hairline |
| Operation time | 1.5 hours |
| Anaesthesia | General > (Local) |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (stretched, thick, abnormal pigmentation, red, retracted etc.), Skin discoloration, Skin cones, Skin necrosis, Wound separation, Slough, Hair loss, Pain, Irritation, Nerve injury (Numbness - mainly behind hairline, weakness), Bruising, Swelling, Cysts, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Aesthetic imperfections, Undesirable hairline, Change of brow position, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction. (General anaesthetic: Chest infection, Heart attack, Stroke, Blood clots in legs & lungs). N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Alcohol, Progressive hair loss, Poor tissue quality can cause recurrent laxity, Asymmetry cannot be entirely corrected, Too early or excessive mobilisation, Wound interference without surgeon's agreement; Contraindications which preclude surgery unless discussed otherwise in the consultation: Smoking / vaping / nicotine / recreational inhalations within 6 weeks before and after surgery, Contraception with estrogens or HRT tablets (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel over 2 hours within 6 weeks before and after surgery (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel under 2 hours within 2 weeks before and after surgery, Overweight (Body Mass Index = BMI of 27 and over), Recent weight changes over 6kg, Pregnancy (if under general anaesthetic), Raised blood pressure (if poorly controlled), Bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), Diabetes or immunosuppression (if poorly controlled) |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sufficient sleep, scar massage, sun protection, silicone gels |
| Discomfort | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Bruising | 2 - 3 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities and driving 2 weeks, Physical work / sports 6 weeks, Unrestricted 3 months |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 - 18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Make-up, Wigs, Hair extensions, Medication (e.g. Minoxidil), Hair transplant |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
