Forehead Reduction

Q: Dr. Eppley, I like the idea of reducing the bones on both sides to create a more even look. Could a forehead reduction by hairline advancement be done at the same time? Whats the recovery time for this time of procedure? Would it change any facial asymmetry other than my forehead? By reducing the bone could that put at risk to have a fragile head for the rest of my life? I guess what I’m asking could I live a normal life after surgery? Sorry to load you with questions I’m just so curious since this is the second time i reach out to a plastic surgeon for this type of reconstruction and the first one advice no surgery. Thank you for your time.

A: In answer to your forehead reduction questions:

1) A hairline advancement and bony forehead reduction is often done at the same time. This is also the most convenient way to do both procedures.

2) The recovery is largely about swelling which is largely gone by 10 to 14 days after the surgery.

3) Since the face below the forehead remains the same, its natural symmetry/asymmetry is unaffected by any forehead shape changes.

4) Removal of some of the bone on the forehead does not make it weaker or more fragile. There is still plenty of bone left for support.

5) This surgery is not going to affect the longevity of your life. Its goal is to improve the quality of the rest of your life.

6) Your first plastic surgeon probably recommended against it because he/she does not know how to do the surgery. Surgeons often recommend against surgery if which they have lack of knowledge about it. Never confuse ‘I can’t do it’ with ‘It can’t or shouldn’t be done’.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana