Where Would My Forehead Reduction Surgery Be Performed?

The procedure is performed at fully accredited Newport Beach and Beverly Hills outpatient surgery centers.

Do I Have to Go to Sleep for the Operation?

The forehead reduction can be performed using heavy sedation or general anesthesia. In all cases, local anesthesia (numbing medicine) will be used to ensure you don’t feel any discomfort during the procedure and to help you wake up pain-free.

How Long Will My Procedure Take?

In most patients, the procedure will take 2 to 3 hours.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

All forehead reduction patients will need to return a day or two after surgery to have their bandages removed or replaced, and Dr. Sundine can observe their initial healing. An additional appointment a week or two after that will be to have any sutures removed. You can expect one or two more check-ups over the next six months to ensure you’ve healed appropriately and are happy with your results.

How Long Until I See the Results?

You will be seen on postoperative day one, at which time the drain may be removed depending on how much the drain is putting out. When the drain is removed, you may shower and wash your hair the next day. You perform light activities such as walking, going up and down stairs, and lifting up to 10 pounds. You may return to work and drive at around 7-10 days post-operatively. You may begin full activity at three weeks postoperatively and color your if necessary.

Can I Combine a Forehead Reduction with Other Procedures?

Absolutely! Many of our Newport Beach and Beverly Hills forehead reduction patients will combine their surgery with other facial contouring procedures, such as a facelift , eyelid surgery , or minimally invasive neck lift , for a more appealing profile. When you come in for your initial consultation, please mention your aesthetic goals to Dr. Sundine so he can suggest complimentary procedures for your forehead reduction.

What Are the Risks Associated with a Forehead Reduction?

While Dr. Sundine makes every effort to provide safe and satisfying results, forehead reduction is still an invasive procedure that comes with its own risks. We believe that knowledge helps prepare our patients for success, so below, we have listed some of the complications that may occur after your plastic surgery: Scarring Hair loss Numbness Asymmetry Bleeding

Hairline Lowering Newport Beach | Forehead Reduction In Orange County

Forehead Reduction or Hairline Lowering Foreheadplasty in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills

Introduction

An elongated forehead with an increased distance from the eyebrows to the hairline creates an unaesthetic appearance and gives the impression of aging. It may also draw attention away from other attractive facial features. Forehead reduction is a procedure performed by Dr. Michael J. Sundine in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills, CA that can bring the forehead hairline closer to the front and shorten the distance from the eyebrows to the hairline. It can be combined with a forehead lift to elevate the eyebrows and improve forehead wrinkles.

Blonde at beach -- eyelid surgery -- Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Sundine

What is a Forehead Reduction?

Forehead reduction or hairline-lowering ForeheadPlasty is a procedure in which an incision is made at the hairline, and the hair-bearing scalp is brought forward to lower the hairline. During the same procedure, the eyebrows may be elevated, any wrinkles corrected, and any bony irregularities of the forehead contoured.

There are many recommendations regarding the appropriate height and configuration of the hairline. Some are based on numbers alone, and others rely on a more artistic approach. The ideal distance from the top of the eyebrow to the hairline is felt to be about 6 cm in females and 7 cm in males. This distance is generally when the forehead transitions from a more vertical orientation to a horizontal one.

In addition, with aging, the forehead may droop, and the hairline retracts, which may aggravate an already long forehead and an aged appearance.

Eyelid Surgery -- Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Sundine

What Are The Benefits

of a Forehead Reduction Procedure?

Our Newport Beach and Beverly Hills forehead reduction patients have expressed noticing the following benefits after their surgery:

More confidence due to an improved self-image
A more harmonious appearance with improved balance between the thirds of the face
A more youthful appearance because the forehead is no longer elongated
A more attractive appearance
A more natural look

Who is a Good Candidate

for a Forehead Reduction?

Forehead reduction in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills is needed for patients with poorly mobile scalps and those with thin or fragile hair. Those patients who are good candidates for the procedure include:

Patients who have a high forehead hairline.
Patients who have a stable hairline and a full, thick head of hair.
Patients with good scalp laxity.
Patients who are in good health.
Patients with realistic expectations of the procedure.
Patients must be willing to accept a scar on the forehead hairline.

Not all patients with an elongated forehead are candidates for a forehead reduction. It is not a good procedure for patients with male pattern baldness or a family history of baldness. The previous hairline incision may become exposed and visible as the hairline begins to recede.

Patients who have had previous scalp surgery, such as hair transplants and forehead lifts, may not be candidates for the procedure.

It should not be performed on heavy smokers or patients with scalp diseases such as alopecia areata. These conditions and transplants create an inelastic scalp that will not stretch and move forward.

Woman by ocean -- eyelid surgery -- Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Sundine

How Do I Begin the Process of a Forehead Reduction Procedure?

You begin the process by making a personal consultation with Dr. Sundine at his Fashion Island Newport Beach or Beverly Hills office. At that consultation, Dr. Sundine will review your aesthetic concerns. He will examine the size and shape of your forehead, noting the brow position, any wrinkles, and possible bony deformities. As with all patients, a complete medical history and physical examination are also completed. Based on this comprehensive consultation, the best approach for each patient is determined.

Call our office at 949-706-3100 to schedule your consultation for your forehead reduction. Dr. Sundine will then recommend the best course of action.

What Are the Next Steps Following the Consultation?

Once your procedure has been scheduled, you will be given instructions on how to proceed.

It is imperative that any smoking or nicotine use (regular use or second-hand smoke exposure) be stopped for a minimum of three months prior to and after the procedure to minimize any risk of scalp flap necrosis.

You need to avoid any medications or supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, Vitamin E, fish oil, etc.) that can cause bleeding.
If you use any semifluid-related medications (e.g., Wegovy, Ozempic, Rebelsus, Mounjaro, etc.) for weight loss or diabetes, you must stop two weeks before any surgery.
For all procedures where we work on the scalp (facelift, forehead lift, forehead shortening), we recommend using hair color three weeks before the procedure. It can be resumed three weeks after the surgery. The color makes the hair brittle, and if it is applied closer to the time of surgery, the hair may be broken or lost.
You will need to arrange for a ride home and someone to help you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
You should pick up your necessary prescriptions prior to the surgery.

What to Expect on the Day of a Forehead Reduction Procedure?

The forehead-lowering procedure can be broken down into five elementary steps.

First, an incision is made at the forehead hairline. This incision is carefully tailored to follow the hairline’s natural undulations and beveled to get the forehead hair to grow through the scar. These maneuvers help to avoid scar visibility and detection. The next step is to elevate the scalp posteriorly to free it up.

The scalp is then stretched and relaxed, allowing the hair-bearing scalp to move forward. Finally, the hair-bearing scalp is advanced forward and held in position, which, in effect, lowers the forehead. The extra non-hair-bearing forehead skin is trimmed, and the incisions are closed. In patients who need to elevate their eyebrows, this procedure can be performed at the same time.

What Do I Need to Do After My Surgery?

Recovery

Typically, you will be able to go home following your surgery with a family member or friend to help care for you. A light will wrap around your head. A drain will be in place to collect any fluid that might collect under the skin. You will be instructed on how to use the drains. The drain will be removed when it is putting out less than 30 cc per day.

You should keep your head elevated for a week after the surgery.
You may apply ice as needed for 20 minutes every hour while you are awake for swelling and discomfort.
You may shower and wash your hair the next day following drain removal.
Use your pain medication as needed and try to transition to over-the-counter pain medication such as extra-strength Tylenol where possible.
You should apply a light coat of bacitracin ointment to the suture line twice daily.
Avoid any heavy lifting or straining for three weeks following the surgery.

What Can You Expect Following Your Forehead Reduction Surgery?

After you have recovered from the forehead reduction, you will notice a smoother lower hairline with improved contours. The scars will be well-healed and hidden along the hairline. You can expect to have swelling and bruising following your surgery. The swelling will peak on the morning of postoperative day two.

You can expect to have a small amount of hair loss in the weeks following the surgery, but expect it to grow back within three to six months. You may experience some decreased sensation, but this usually resolves to some extent by about six months.

How Much Does Hairline Lowering Cost in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills, CA?

Financing

The cost of forehead reduction surgery in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach will vary depending on numerous factors, including the extent of change required and Dr. Sundine’s techniques. The best way to determine the total price for your procedure is to come in for a consultation and have a treatment plan created for you.

Why Choose Dr. Sundine?

Dr. Michael Sundine is a double-board certified and double fellowship trained (advanced facial aesthetic surgery and craniofacial surgery) plastic surgeon with over 29 years of experience in treating facial aesthetic issues. Patients have traveled from around the world for Dr. Sundine. Many organizations have sought out his expertise, and he has lectured nationally and internationally on topics related to facial cosmetic surgery. With his extensive experience and training, Dr. Sundine brings a unique perspective and artistry to the appearance of the forehead. He is the author of the Aesthetic Rejuvenation of the Face and Neck textbook, designed to teach other surgeons how to perform facial cosmetic surgery.

Dr. Sundine is a proud member of the American Board of Surgery (ABS), the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and the American College of Surgeons (FACS), and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP).

Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Sundine

Get a personalized and thorough consultation at our beautiful practice in the Fashion Island area of Newport Beach, CA. Call 949-706-3100 or use our online consultation request form to schedule your appointment.

200 Newport Center Drive, Suite 301 Newport Beach, California 92663

Hairline Lowering FAQs

Your procedure questions answered.

All forehead reduction patients will need to return a day or two after surgery to have their bandages removed or replaced, and Dr. Sundine can observe their initial healing. An additional appointment a week or two after that will be to have any sutures removed. You can expect one or two more check-ups over the next six months to ensure you’ve healed appropriately and are happy with your results.
You will be seen on postoperative day one, at which time the drain may be removed depending on how much the drain is putting out. When the drain is removed, you may shower and wash your hair the next day. You perform light activities such as walking, going up and down stairs, and lifting up to 10 pounds. You may return to work and drive at around 7-10 days post-operatively. You may begin full activity at three weeks postoperatively and color your if necessary.
Absolutely! Many of our Newport Beach and Beverly Hills forehead reduction patients will combine their surgery with other facial contouring procedures, such as a facelift, eyelid surgery, or minimally invasive neck lift, for a more appealing profile. When you come in for your initial consultation, please mention your aesthetic goals to Dr. Sundine so he can suggest complimentary procedures for your forehead reduction.
While Dr. Sundine makes every effort to provide safe and satisfying results, forehead reduction is still an invasive procedure that comes with its own risks. We believe that knowledge helps prepare our patients for success, so below, we have listed some of the complications that may occur after your plastic surgery:
- Scarring
- Hair loss
- Numbness
- Asymmetry
- Bleeding

Real Patients

Real Reviews

What I really like about Dr. Sundine is his vast experience and training. I also like the fact he did not try to sell me other procedures. He is also very down to earth and easy to talk to. I am very satisfied with the results and I highly recommend him.

After much research and multiple visits to other surgeons, I knew right away that Dr. Sundine was the perfect choice for me. I felt completely confident in his ability from the first visit to the last. I have been singing his praises to all of my friends and will recommend him to anyone searching for a plastic surgeon. Thanks, Dr. Sundine

Dr. Sundine is an excellent plastic surgeon! I have been using his services for almost 5 years. If you want to look years younger and fully refreshed I highly recommend that you use his services. Patients walk out looking naturally gorgeous, not overdone like some of the women in Orange County!

Dr. Sundine is the best plastic surgeon. Dr. Sundine’s excellent skills and knowledge has made my surgery turn out so well. But more importantly, it made me feel better about myself. Again, thank you Dr. Sundine for all you have done for me. You are the best surgeon!

I gave Dr. Sundine the highest possible review in each category because he truly deserved the highest reviews on every level. I am a very well recognized lawyer on the West Coast. My firm has spent millions of dollars on television advertising in which I appear. I could not afford to have a bad facelift or even for people to notice I had a facelift at all. I interviewed many physicians including some of the “celebrity” physicians. Ultimately, I chose Dr. Sundine.