Hairline and hair transplantation
The shape and height of the hairline affects the visual perception of the upper third of the face. We usually combine hairline correction with a forehead feminization procedure. This is important to achieve the natural look that is so important for a consistent image and feminine expression of each area of the face after feminization procedures.
The hairline in women and men differs significantly. Its shift combined with hair transplantation completes the feminization effect and allows to achieve natural results in the upper third of the face. The new hairline is always designed to faithfully reflect the density and arrangement of hair on the scalp. We take an individual approach to each case and base the final result on the needs and expectations of our patients. We know how important for each patient is a consistent and natural female appearance. For each person we individually select the procedures and scope of surgery performed.
Before the hairline correction procedure – evaluation and consultation
We always begin the scope of hairline shift modifications with an anatomical evaluation and the patient’s needs in this area. Our specialists analyze the shape and height of the hairline, which is the distance between the eye line and the hairline border. Hair density and texture are also important.
These factors help determine the types of hairline placement:
- TYP 1 – normal height and rounded hairline – no recession, hair evenly framing the face along the oval line
- TYP 2 – normal line height and retracted lateral temples – resembles the letter M
- TYP 3 – naturally high hairline
- TYP 4 – high hairline due to baldness, especially in the lateral temple area
- TYP 5 – indeterminate hairline resulting from advanced alopecia.
The entire process of facial feminization is preceded by a series of consultations with specialists. At this stage an innovative system Vectra XT is also helpful. It is a specialist equipment which on the basis of images obtained from several cameras builds a three-dimensional model of the patient’s face and silhouette. Specialized software enables the creation of multiple visualizations, showing the effects of the proposed treatments, step by step, at each stage of the MtF procedure. The patient can see the effects of the procedures even before they begin, which greatly reduces the fear of undertaking a lengthy surgical modification process.
What is the hairline feminization procedure with transplantation?
Depending on the specific type of hairline placement, face shape, and patient needs, Timeless Clinic offers different procedures.
Hairline redefinition combined with hair transplantation is recommended primarily for patients with sufficient hair density and without active androgenetic alopecia. It is an ideal option for patients with type 2. In such cases we pay special attention to filling in the defects on the temples, for which hair transplants are used. We conduct the treatment in such a way as to achieve a smooth and natural looking hairline.
In case of an unnatural, too high line (type 4 and 5), we lower the hairline during the procedure by moving it forward. Thanks to transplantation it is possible to move the high line even by 1 cm, which optically lowers the forehead and gives the face a fuller oval.
Individuals with types 3 and 5 are usually offered a line shift combined with a hair transplant. The size of the transplant depends on the needs of the individual, ranging from a narrow strip behind the new hairline to larger areas on the top of the head deprived of hair due to advanced baldness.
We obtain hair follicles by using two techniques: FUSS or FUE. FUSS (Follicular Unit Strip Surgery) is a method in which hair follicles are obtained from strips taken from the scalp. Whereas FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) involves taking hair follicles one by one without surgery. The latter method is much more difficult and time consuming. It requires a lot of experience and precision.
How does the hairline feminization procedure work?
At Timeless we offer two methods of hairline correction. The first is for people whose natural line runs evenly, with no loss in the lateral or temporal area. It involves surgically lowering the hairline after removing a narrow strip of skin in the hairline area. The incision is made on the scalp to minimize the risk of visible scarring.
The second option is to perform hairline shift hair transplants, often performed together with forehead feminization surgery. In Timeless clinic we have developed procedures which allow us to combine modifications of these two areas, which significantly reduces time, cost and complexity of the whole process of facial feminization. Combining the modifications of several areas in one procedure also means less stress for the patient and shorter recovery period.
During the procedure, we use a strip of scalp removed to access the forehead for hairline shaping and filling. After surgical modifications to the forehead structures, we design a new hairline (IHT – Immediate Hair Transplant Technique) and implant the harvested hair follicles into the new location.
To reduce the risks associated with prolonged general anesthesia, the patient is awakened and maintained under light sedation throughout the hair transplant procedures.
Hormonal imbalances associated with androgenetic alopecia should also be stabilized prior to the procedure. If the number of follicles would be insufficient for transplantation during the forehead feminization procedure, then follicles can be harvested from another area of the scalp.
