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Hairline / Forehead

Hairline Lowering

Surgical advancement of the hairline to shorten a tall forehead in a single stage.

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Region
Forehead / Hairline
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Theatre time
2–4 hours
Downtime
2–3 weeks

Overview

Hairline lowering (forehead reduction) advances the hair-bearing scalp forward after scalp mobilisation, moving the hairline down 1.5–2.5 cm in one operation. Candidacy depends on scalp laxity and hair-loss stability.

What it changes

  • Hairline height
  • Forehead vertical proportion
  • Upper facial third balance

Common goals

Shorten a high forehead
Rebalance facial thirds

Candidates

General factors a surgeon may consider. Only a qualified surgeon can assess whether you are a candidate.

  • General physical health suitable for the anaesthetic required
  • Realistic, clearly articulated aesthetic or functional goals
  • Stable anatomy appropriate for the technique proposed
  • Non-smoking or willingness to stop for the surgeon's required window

Surgical approach

  1. 01Trichophytic (irregular) incision at the hairline
  2. 02Galeal scoring and scalp advancement
  3. 03Excision of forehead skin, tension-free closure

Recovery timeline

  1. Day 1

    Immediate post-operative period. Swelling begins, dressings or splints may be in place, supervised rest.

  2. Week 1

    Peak swelling and bruising. Limited activity, soft diet where relevant, first follow-up visit.

  3. Week 2

    Bruising fades. Many people feel socially presentable, light activity resumes.

  4. Week 4

    Most acute swelling resolves. Gradual return to exercise as cleared by the surgeon.

  5. Month 3

    Contours become clearer. Residual swelling continues to settle.

  6. Month 6

    Result is largely representative of the final outcome.

  7. Month 12+

    Final refinement, scar maturation, and revision assessment if needed.

Risks & complications

Bleeding, haematoma, or infection
Temporary or, rarely, permanent nerve disturbance
Asymmetry or an outcome that differs from expectations
Scarring, delayed healing, or wound problems
Anaesthetic risks
Possible need for revision surgery
Visible hairline scar
Scalp numbness behind the incision
Hair loss along the incision
Relapse from scalp tension

Limitations

Not suitable with active or progressive male-pattern hair loss
Limited by scalp laxity
Does not change temporal recession — often combined with grafting

Before & after cases

No verified cases published yet

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Surgeons performing this procedure

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Cost

$6,000 – $18,000

These are broad estimates only. Actual costs vary significantly by country, surgeon, hospital, anaesthesia, imaging, orthodontic treatment, revision policy, and individual complexity. Always obtain a written quotation.

Questions to ask your surgeon

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Information on this platform is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. Surgical suitability, risks, and expected outcomes must be assessed by an appropriately qualified surgeon.