Frontoplasty, or more broadly fronto-orbitoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at feminizing the upper third of the face. Several surgical techniques exist, and the surgeon’s expertise is essential to guide you toward the one best suited to your facial structure and aesthetic goals.
Frontoplasty is a facial feminisation procedure designed to reduce masculine features of the forehead and orbital area.
Certain anatomical traits, such as frontal bossing, prominent orbital rims, or low eyebrow position, are typically associated with masculine faces and can cause discomfort or insecurity in some women.
This surgery is one of the facial feminisation procedures and can be performed alone or in combination with other operations.
This feminising surgery is indicated for patients with pronounced bony features of the forehead or above the orbits. Frontal bossing is especially noticeable in profile, just above the eye sockets. Instead of a smooth curve, the forehead shows an anterior bulge of varying prominence.
Another indication is the presence of projected and prominent brow ridges. Like frontal bossing, this area of the orbital bone structure can be softened to appear more feminine.
Other masculine characteristics may also be addressed during this procedure, such as forehead height or eyebrow position. In patients with a high forehead, the hairline can be lowered, although this may leave a pre-hairline scar.
By releasing the deep attachments of the eyebrows during frontal bossing or orbital rim correction, it becomes possible to slightly raise the brows at the end of the procedure, opening up the gaze. This is referred to as a brow lift.
Before any surgery, two consultations with Dr. Brault are required. The first is to understand your request, perform a clinical examination focused on the face, and prescribe imaging.
A CT scan of the face is essential before this surgery, as it helps assess the thickness of the frontal bone and the presence or absence of frontal sinuses. If the bone is thick and the sinuses are absent, bone shaving is sufficient to soften the forehead. In most cases, however, the frontal sinus is pneumatised (present), and its anterior wall is thin. Shaving isn’t possible; instead, an osteotomy (bone cut) of the anterior wall is required. The bone is then set back to reduce the forehead’s projection safely. The repositioned bone fragment is fixed in place with screws and two small plates.
The height of the forehead and scalp laxity are assessed if a hairline advancement is planned. Eyebrow position, shape, and symmetry are also evaluated.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, and a pre-op consultation with an anaesthetist is required. Depending on the extent of the modifications, surgery lasts between 2 and 3 hours. If no hairline lowering is performed, the incision is made within the hair and is invisible. If the forehead is lowered, the scar is in front of the hairline and may be slightly more visible. In such cases, a hair transplant may be recommended a few months later to camouflage the scar.
The hair is never shaved for this procedure. The incision is made between or in front of the hair. No staples are used ; sutures dissolve naturally a few weeks after surgery.
Two drains (Redons) are placed at the end of the procedure and removed the following day. An overnight stay at the clinic is recommended after this type of surgery.
Results are visible immediately after surgery but will be final only after a few months, once swelling has subsided.
Swelling around the eyelids may appear in the first few days, as well as minor skin folds or creases, which will smooth out over time.
The results are visible and feminising. The forehead becomes smoother with a regular curve. The orbital rim is softened and less prominent. The eyebrows are lifted above the brow ridge, giving the gaze a more feminine expression.
These results are stable over time, and touch-ups are rarely necessary.
How much does a frontoplasty cost with Dr. Brault?
The cost of frontoplasty generally ranges from €5,000, depending on the complexity of the surgery. Dr. Brault will provide you with a personalised quote during your first consultation.