Hair Transplant vs. Forehead reduction - Am I a candidate? (photo)

Question

I've always had a high forehead and it's been an insecurity of mine, but over the past 10 years or so (right around the time I began graduate school) I've noticed my hairline has been gradually receding. I don't have much hair loss anywhere else on my head and my hair is very thick, especially in the back and on the sides. Male pattern baldness runs in my family and my dad has a very high forehead, too. Would I be a candidate for either treatment? Thank you! (1st pic is recent, 2nd was at 22yo)

Gokay Bilgin, MD · Answer

Based on your description, it sounds like you're experiencing gradual hairline recession, which is common, especially with a family history of male pattern baldness. Since your hair is thick in the back and on the sides, you seem to have a good donor area, which is essential for a hair transplant.
Considering you don’t have much hair loss elsewhere and the recession is relatively stable, you're likely a good candidate for a hairline restoration. However, we'd need to assess the situation further with a proper consultation, as we would want to ensure your donor area has enough density to achieve a natural result.
Since your hairline has been gradually receding, you might want to consider starting with non-surgical treatments like finasteride or minoxidil to stabilize your hairline before proceeding with a transplant, or to combine them with the transplant for enhanced results.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When considering hairline concerns such as a high forehead and receding hairline, there are two primary surgical options: hair transplant and forehead reduction. Each has distinct advantages and considerations:

Hair Transplant: This procedure involves moving hair follicles from a donor area (commonly the back or sides of the head) to the hairline. Given your description of having thick hair in these areas, you might be a good candidate for a hair transplant. This option is particularly beneficial if you want to maintain a natural-looking hairline and potentially address other areas of thinning over time. It’s also suitable if you prefer a minimally invasive approach with no changes to your forehead's structure.

Forehead Reduction Surgery (Hairline Lowering Surgery): This procedure physically reduces the size of the forehead by removing a strip of skin at the hairline and advancing the scalp forward. It’s a more immediate solution for reducing forehead height and is often chosen by individuals who want a significant change in their forehead proportions. However, it does involve a more invasive surgical approach and a longer recovery period.

Considerations:

Genetics: Since male pattern baldness runs in your family, it's important to consider the potential for continued hair loss over time. A hair transplant might offer more flexibility for future adjustments as needed.
Consultation with a Specialist: A thorough evaluation by a board-certified hair restoration specialist or plastic surgeon can provide personalized recommendations based on your hair density, scalp laxity, and overall goals.
Long-Term Goals: Consider how each procedure aligns with your long-term aesthetic goals and lifestyle. Discuss potential outcomes and recovery times with your surgeon.
Both options can effectively address your concerns, but a detailed consultation will help determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Didem Alev, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns about your high forehead and receding hairline, along with the photos and details about your hair quality and family history. I understand how this can impact your confidence, and I’m happy to provide guidance on your options.
Based on your description and the progression shown in your photos, it appears you’re experiencing male pattern baldness, likely at a Norwood Stage 3. The good news is that your thick, high-quality hair on the back and sides makes you an excellent candidate for a hair transplant. With approximately 3,500 grafts, we can restore your hairline to create a more harmonious, aesthetically pleasing look that complements your facial features and reduces the appearance of a high forehead.
I recommend a hair transplant over forehead reduction surgery, as it’s a minimally invasive procedure with no cutting or stitching required. Unlike forehead reduction, which can leave a visible scar, a hair transplant using my DIT® (Dermo-needle Incision Technique) offers natural, permanent results with virtually no scarring. DIT® uses precision hypodermic needles to place grafts, ensuring minimal trauma, faster healing, and a hairline that looks seamless and natural. The procedure can be performed with minimal shaving of the donor area, allowing you to maintain your current hairstyle during recovery. While final results take about 12 months, the outcome is long-lasting and well worth the wait.
Best regards,Dr. Didem Alev

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

FUE hair transplant can be an option for forehead reduction,  correcting  receding hair line and asymmetry on your frontal hair line/forelock. I advice you have a FUE with 2000-2200 grafts; you would achieve the desired hairline in just one session of dense packing hair transplant.

Hair Transplant vs. Forehead reduction - Am I a candidate? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Restoration of high forehead

Answer: Restoration of high forehead

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Hair Transplant vs. Forehead reduction - Am I a candidate? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Restoration of high forehead

Answer: Restoration of high forehead

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Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.