Frontal Bossing

A prominent brow bone, or supraorbital ridge, is more commonly referred to as frontal bossing. Generally, a prominence of the lower forehead is more masculine in feature, whereas a more feminine lower forehead is smoother and flatter in transition from the brow area into the forehead.

What happens during the surgery?

There are a number of different techniques to surgically treating a prominent forehead and frontal bossing. Small amounts of bone reduction maybe undertaken, using an endoscopic (keyhole) technique. This is undertaken using small incisions in the hairline, and then shaving the bony prominence with a rasp. Larger reductions maybe undertaken by shaving the bone with a burr, to produce a more desired shape. More complex reductions of frontal bossing require osteotomies and repositioning of the frontal bone. More complex procedures will require you to have A CT scan beforehand to assess the thickness of the bone and also to determine the best approach for you to get the required result.


What happens after the surgery?

You will be required to spend the night in hospital and are advised to take at least two weeks off work after this type of surgery. Some bruising and discomfort are likely after surgery but these will subside in a few days, with pain relief. After one week the wound will be assessed to make sure it’s healing correctly,  you will be prescribed antibiotics after surgery to help speed up the healing process. It is recommended patients sleep with the head upright on a pillow as pressure can cause some minor discomfort.

What are the possible risks and complications?

There are risks and complications associated with all  surgical procedures; all surgery has risk of bleeding and infection. Other risks include asymmetry, bony irregularities, numbness or altered sensation, and the need for further procedures. Complex forehead reductions includes  work around the eyes and in these cases you would be warned regarding a small risk to vision.

The Face Surgeons