What Are Some Forehead Reduction Side Effects?

Forehead reduction surgery is also known as hairline lowering. By moving the hairline down slightly, patients can achieve a more proportionate and balanced look. This procedure provides instantaneous results compared to other surgeries. Prior to performing the surgery, Dr. Sahar Nadimi conducts a consultation to determine if forehead reduction is the best option to meet your needs. 

There are forehead reduction side effects that patients should know about before choosing this procedure. At our Oakbrook Terrace, IL, practice, you will learn who are the best candidates and the final results that you can expect to achieve.

What Happens during Forehead Reduction?

During the surgery, Dr. Nadimi will numb the treatment area with local anesthesia. Based on the patient’s goals, the surgeon makes an incision along the hairline and the forehead. The doctor carefully removes a portion of tissue and then pulls down and joins the incision from the hairline to the incision on the forehead. This gives the forehead a shorter or smaller appearance. The doctor will then close the incisions with conservative methods to minimize scarring.

Numbing after Surgery

One of the most common forehead reduction side effects is temporary numbing immediately after surgery. This feeling usually lasts for three to five days after your procedure. If it persists for longer, you should contact our Oakbrook Terrace, IL, office for further guidance.

Scarring

A scar is expected after surgery, but our doctor works diligently to ensure the scar is as inconspicuous as possible. As your forehead continues to heal, the scar will become less noticeable. Once the treatment area is completely healed, you should not have a scar, or it will be very light in appearance.

Swelling of the Forehead

After forehead reduction surgery, the patient should expect some degree of swelling. Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to reduce this inflammation. In many cases, the patient can use cold compresses to reduce the risk of swelling. 

Bleeding

Patients might experience some bleeding in the surgical area after the procedure. Persistent bleeding can occur if the forehead is not treated with care. To reduce the risk of this side effect, patients should refrain from taking certain medications, smoking, or drinking alcohol immediately before or after forehead reduction surgery. 

Hair Loss

Some individuals might temporarily lose hair at the site of the incision made at the hairline. Hair loss can vary from patient to patient. It is common to lose fine hairs as you recover. Typically, you can expect the hair to grow back within three months of surgery.

Extended Healing Time

While most patients can expect to be fully healed within three weeks of surgery, some patients can take longer. For proper healing, individuals need to follow their doctor’s orders. This includes refraining from strenuous activity for some time, avoiding some medications, and abstaining from alcohol. 

The Final Results

Patients should have realistic expectations of forehead reduction surgery. The final results of the procedure are more subtle than dramatic since the hairline is only moved down about two to three centimeters. Some patients might achieve a younger-looking appearance since wrinkles are often minimized.

Learn More in a Consultation

To learn more about forehead reduction surgery and to see if you qualify, contact our Oakbrook Terrace office online for a consultation. You can also give us a call at (630) 932-9690 to discuss your expectations and the benefits you can receive from this procedure.