Metoplasty, also known as forehead contouring or forehead reshaping, is a surgical procedure aimed at altering the shape and contour of the forehead. This surgery is often performed to address concerns related to the forehead’s prominence, smoothness, or overall aesthetic appearance. It can be part of gender-affirming surgery, craniofacial surgery, or simply cosmetic enhancement.
Procedure Overview:
- Consultation: A thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon is necessary before the procedure. During this consultation, the surgeon evaluates the patient’s goals, performs a physical examination, and discusses potential risks and outcomes.
- Anesthesia: Metoplasty is generally performed under general anesthesia, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.
- Incisions: The surgeon typically makes an incision along the hairline or within the scalp to minimize visible scarring. The exact location of the incision depends on the specific goals and techniques used.
- Forehead Reshaping: The surgeon reshapes the underlying bone structure of the forehead. This may involve shaving down or augmenting the bone, smoothing out irregularities, or modifying the brow ridge to achieve the desired contour.
- Closing the Incisions: Once the desired shape is achieved, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures. These sutures may be absorbable or require removal after a certain period.
- Recovery: Post-surgery, the patient will need to follow specific recovery guidelines, including managing swelling, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. The initial recovery period usually involves some swelling and discomfort, which gradually subsides over a few weeks.
Metoplasty aims to create a harmonious and balanced forehead appearance that aligns with the patient’s aesthetic goals.
