Forehead reduction surgery Q&A: Ask ID Doctors

On this post, we discussed the healing process for forehead reduction surgery. Many patients had various questions about surgery, so this post has the FAQs related to forehead reduction surgery.

Q: What does the incision area look like?

The incision is done on the natural hairline in a zig-zag pattern to conceal the scars naturally with the hairline. The hair will grow around within a few months so the scars will be well hidden.

Q: How much of my forehead can actually be reduced?

The forehead can be reduced 1-3 centimeters but depending on the person’s scalp laxity, 5-6 centimeters reductions are also possible. This differs per patients, so a consultation is required to figure out the exact reduction size.

Q: How long does the scar take to fade? How much of the scar will be visible?

Forehead reduction surgery can leave a scar, but since the incision area is cleverly disguised, it should be undetectable over-time.

Before surgery/14 days post-surgery/3 months post-surgery

Q: Can I do anything to make the scar heal faster?

You can purchase a scar ointment from the pharmacy to use if you are concerned about the healing time. It will help fade the scar a little faster. You can use the ointment after the stitches have been removed.

Q: Will my hair fall out on the incision area?

You can experience temporary hair loss, but the hair will grow back within 4-6 months.

Q: Will this surgery make my forehead more feminine?

Men have a more prominent forehead, so it is considered a masculine trait. Bringing the hairline lower will make the facial features more feminine.

Q: What if I also want to shave the forehead bone?

We do not perform surgery to shave the forehead bone.

Q: When will the sensation return to my scalp?

The numbness will reduce as the minor nerves in the scalp heal. It can take 6 weeks to 6 months or longer, depending on the healing rate of the individual.

Q: Can the surgery work for someone with a widow’s peak?

For M-shaped hairline (widow’s peak), depending on the degree which the hairline is extended, the surgery can or cannot be done. For males with really prominent widow’s peak, forehead reduction surgery alone will not be enough to change the hairline.

Q: When can I dye my hair after surgery?

We recommended waiting until the incision area has healed well, 3-6 months after surgery is recommended.

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