Hairline Advancement

Why consider hairline advancement?

When pursuing facial feminization, it’s important to understand the innate differences between the male and female anatomy. In the case of the upper face, a masculine forehead is higher and is typically shaped like an “M.” A feminine forehead is lower and is shaped like an inverted, oval “U.” Our San Francisco hair grafting treatment can give the MTF patient a softer, more feminine appearance in the forehead, improving confidence and affirming authentic gender identity.

Dr. Satterwhite, Dr. Rodriguez, and Dr. Gurjala perform hairline advancement for all members of the transgender community in San Francisco and beyond.

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How is hairline advancement achieved?

We will create a trichophytic incision within the hairline, advancing the hair-laden scalp tissue forward. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with forehead contouring and brow lift. Hairline advancement cannot be performed on a patient who has significant hair loss or balding. In these cases, hair transplantation will have to be considered.

Hairline advancement is a beneficial procedure for feminizing the hairline by advancing it forward (shortening the distance between the eyebrows and the hairline), creating a rounder and more feminine hairline, and by obscuring the temporal recession, which can be seen as a masculine hallmark. It does take up to a year to get your final results, so patience is paramount. Meticulous surgical technique is important at the time of the operation, but just as important (if not more so) is careful scar management post operatively. It is important to understand that everyone heals differently, so check in with us regularly to make sure all is progressing normally. Keep in mind, there is no such thing as scarless surgery! There will be a scar, but we strive to make it as imperceptibly as possible.

Initially the forehead incisions are closed with sutures, which are removed after 1 week.

After a few weeks, there can still be some scabbing and irregularities. This is normal. It is important to keep the area moisturized, and to use a silicone-based scar cream (which we have available in our office). Stay away from sun exposure (or use sunblock and a hat if you have to be in the sun) for 1 year afterwards. Stay away from smoking and nicotine products around the time of the operation, as well.

After a year, the hairline incision will be nicely healed, and in most cases, barely perceptible.

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What are the benefits of hairline advancement?

Creates a more feminine, “wispy” hairline
Affirms one’s gender identity
Improves self-confidence in one’s image
Shrinks the amount of space above the eyebrows
Minimal, inconspicuous scarring
Long-lasting results
Natural-looking outcome

Who makes a good candidate for hairline advancement?

One who is frustrated by a prominent, large forehead
Patient who is seeking a more feminine aesthetic
In good health, both emotionally and physically
Non-smoker
Realistic expectations based on your Bay Area consultation

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Hairline Advancement

What will my recovery be like?

There is mild post-surgical pain associated with hairline advancement, although you may experience some swelling and bruising in the forehead and around the eyes. You may feel tenderness and minor discomfort for up to one week post-op. You can return to your full routine within 1 month. Short-term numbness in the scalp may persist for several months (up to a year in some cases), but this is harmless and will eventually subside.

Dr. Satterwhite is the best surgeon in the US. After years of research, he is the only surgeon I would trust to help me with my transition. He was supportive, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Do not think twice about choosing him to help you change your life!

Hairline Advancement FAQ's

How much does hairline advancement cost?

Hairline advancement surgery prices vary depending on the complexity of the work performed, and on how many stages are required to get a comprehensive result. Our surgical team will always provide a customized, in-depth quote at the time of consultation, so you will be fully informed and empowered before moving forward. We offer assistance with applying for financing from a variety of reputable healthcare lenders.

Why select Align Surgical for my surgery?

Our surgeons combine consummate skill and expertise with an artistic eye for balance and beauty, and as such can create stunning outcomes for MTF patients in terms of facial feminization techniques. We are able to customize our work to suit each client’s unique anatomy, goals and aesthetic sensibilities.

Dr. Satterwhite, the founder of Align Surgical, graduated with honors from Stanford University, obtaining his medical degree and then going on to complete an elite plastic surgery residency at Stanford Hospital. He is the recipient of multiple awards for his research and oral presentations in the field of reconstructive surgery.