Hairline lowering
Hairline lowering (alternately, a scalp advancement or forehead reduction) is a surgical technique that allows an individual to have their frontal hairline advanced certain distances depending on variables such as pre-operative hairline height, scalp laxity, and patient preference. It can be used to address a congenitally high hairline or sometimes a hairline that has recessed from hair loss. It is performed mostly on women. Hairline lowering surgery is also recommended to many patients undergoing facial feminization surgery (FFS). The shape of the hairline is altered, creating a low, feminine hairline. For MTF (male to female) patients who have very prominent brow bones, brow bone shaving may be performed additionally. Scalp laxity Satisfactory hairline lowering is a balance between patient expectations and anatomical limitations. Scalp laxity is a primary determinant of extent of hairline advancement. When scalp laxity is insufficient for the desired amount of advancement, use of tissue expanders can greatly increase the possible advancement. Surgery Hairline lowering is typically performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. The surgeon marks the anticipated postoperative hairline prior to surgery. The new hairline can be tailored to the patient’s preferences and is often wavy to mimic a natural hairline.