Hairline Lowering in Bellevue, WA

This advanced procedure gently brings the hairline forward, shortening a high forehead for a naturally harmonious appearance.

Precision, Balance, and Confidence

Facial harmony depends on proportion, and for many, a high or receding hairline can disrupt that balance. Under the leadership of Dr. Brian Scott, a double-board-certified specialist in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, NewSkin offers hairline lowering (also known as forehead reduction) in Bellevue as a safe and precise surgical solution. With meticulous technique and an artistic understanding of facial symmetry, Dr. Scott designs results that look entirely natural while preserving your unique features. Each plan is tailored to your specific hair type, forehead height, and long-term aesthetic objectives.

What Is Hairline Lowering?

Hairline lowering, also known as forehead reduction surgery, is a procedure that reduces the vertical height of the forehead by advancing the scalp forward. It is commonly performed for patients with congenitally high hairlines, hair recession, or those seeking better facial proportion.

During surgery, an incision is made along the natural hairline. The scalp is carefully mobilized and repositioned forward, and excess forehead skin is removed. Fine, hidden sutures ensure the incision heals discreetly within the hairline. The approach differs from brow lift techniques, which elevate brow position rather than adjusting hairline location.

When performed correctly, hairline lowering can safely advance the hairline by up to 2–2.5 centimeters. Some patients may also undergo a simultaneous brow lift to maintain natural expression and eyebrow position.

Benefits of Hairline Lowering

Enhances confidence and self-expression by creating facial balance that feels authentic to your natural features
Delivers tailored precision—each advancement is customized to your hair pattern, scalp flexibility, and aesthetic goals
Promotes seamless hair growth through the incision line, allowing scars to blend naturally over time
Achieves immediate improvement with gradual softening of results as the incision heals and hair density returns
Offers lasting change with outcomes designed to remain stable for years under the expert care of Dr. Brian Scott

Are You a Good Candidate for Hairline Lowering?

You may be well-suited for hairline-lowering surgery in Bellevue if you:

Have a congenitally high, receded, or uneven hairline that creates disproportion between the upper, middle, and lower facial thirds
Have adequate scalp laxity and elasticity, confirmed during consultation, allowing safe forward advancement without excessive tension
Maintain healthy hair density at the frontal scalp to ensure optimal incision camouflage and natural postoperative growth
Are in good general health, with well-controlled blood pressure and no conditions that impair wound healing or increase bleeding risk
Do not smoke or use nicotine products, as these reduce blood flow and compromise healing at the incision site
Have stable hormone levels and no active hair loss disorders (such as androgenetic alopecia or telogen effluvium) that could affect long-term density

Why Choose NewSkin™?

At NewSkin™ in Bellevue, we prioritize your care through precision, artistry, and rigorous adherence to advanced safety standards. Dr. Brian Scott, who is dual board-certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, brings extensive fellowship training and has published over 26 works on facial aesthetics. He also teaches surgical techniques at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, ensuring that every NewSkin™ patient benefits from the latest evidence-based approaches.

Our facility features a private, hospital-grade surgical suite, AI imaging technology for treatment planning, and VISIA® skin analysis for comprehensive evaluations. Each experience is enhanced by the comfort of our serene environment and amenities, including an in-house barista lounge, all designed to make your transformation both safe and inspiring.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Hairline Lowering

Consultation

Meet privately with Dr. Scott to assess forehead height, scalp elasticity, and hair density
Review procedural details, anesthesia options, and potential incision placement using advanced imaging
Receive a transparent quote based on forehead advancement required; financing options are available

Procedure

Preparation: Surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours and is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's comfort level and the complexity of the case.
Incision: A fine incision is made along the existing hairline to maintain a natural contour.
Scalp Advancement: The scalp is gently mobilized and advanced, reducing forehead height.
Closure: Excess skin is removed, and sutures are placed precisely to ensure minimal visibility.

Recovery and Results

Most patients return to work within 7–10 days; mild swelling and numbness along the incision are normal
Sutures are typically removed after one week, and the incision fades gradually over several months
Final positioning stabilizes by three months, revealing a naturally balanced, proportionate hairline
Hair growth through the incision line helps conceal any trace of surgery

Hairline Lowering FAQs

How is hairline lowering different from a brow lift?

Although both procedures involve the upper face, a brow lift elevates the eyebrows, while hairline lowering advances the scalp forward to reduce forehead height. Dr. Scott may combine both procedures when appropriate to achieve a naturally balanced upper-face contour.

How much can the hairline safely be advanced?

The average advancement ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 centimeters, depending on scalp laxity and hair density. During your consultation, Dr. Scott measures scalp mobility precisely to determine how far the hairline can be moved while maintaining natural tension and blood flow to the tissue.

What type of anesthesia is used during surgery?

Hairline lowering is typically performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia for optimal comfort. The choice depends on patient preference, the extent of the procedure, and your overall health profile—discussed in detail during your consultation.

How long does recovery take, and what does it involve?

Most patients return to regular routines within one week. Swelling and tightness near the incision are common and subside gradually. Numbness at the hairline can persist for several weeks as nerve endings heal and then resolve naturally.

Will I lose hair along the incision?

Temporary shedding (called shock loss) may occur near the incision within the first month. This is normal, and the hair typically regrows as follicles recover. Dr. Scott employs a trichophytic incision technique, which encourages new hair to grow directly through the fine scar, providing maximum concealment.

What are the risks or possible complications?

As with all facial procedures, risks are rare when performed by a qualified surgeon but may include temporary numbness, swelling, minor asymmetry, infection, or scar widening. Dr. Scott’s meticulous technique and sterile protocols minimize these concerns, and most patients heal smoothly without complications.

Can I style or color my hair after surgery?

Gentle hair washing can typically resume after 3–5 days once sutures are protected. Hair coloring, chemical treatments, or heat styling should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks until the incision has fully healed and the scalp has regained sensation.

How long do results last?

Hairline-lowering offers permanent results. Once the scalp heals and hair growth returns to normal, the new hairline position remains stable. Aging continues naturally, but the improved proportion and facial balance achieved through surgery are long-lasting.

Expertly Redefining the Frame of Your Face

Hairline lowering at NewSkin™ in Bellevue is performed with artistry, safety, and compassion—so you can look as confident as you feel. Contact us today to book your consultation and learn more.