Forehead (Frontal) skull reshaping, also known as forehead augmentation, MMA implant, skull contouring, and cranioplasty is one of our top specialties at LINE Plastic Surgery Center. This procedure is often performed on patients for cosmetic augmentation purposes or to correct any deformities of the front of the head. Our doctors are experts in skull reshaping with an eye for craniofacial balance. Many of our patients from all over the world come in desiring a more uniform, rounded shaped skull and this procedure can be used to correct the shape and size of the forehead, leaving a more aesthetic and youthful impression.
At Line Plastic Surgery Center we have a safe and effective technique to reshape the frontal part of the skull using bone cement, or methyl methacrylate (MMA). MMA is well tolerated by patients and commonly used in orthopedics and tends to have less chance of infection or rejection than silicone implants.
BEST CANDIDATES FOR FOREHEAD (FRONTAL) SKULL RESHAPING SURGERY
– Flatter or inwards shaped/concave forehead
– Deformity in the frontal skull area either through injury or congenitally
– Want a rounder shape to the forehead for a youthful appearance
– Asymmetry, flat or unevenness to their forehead they want corrected
CONSULTATION
Our doctors at Line Plastic Surgery Center will perform a full physical examination of the patient’s skull and collect their medical history during the consultation. Together, our doctors and the patient will work to create a plan that encompasses the patient’s desires and individual anatomy for optimal results. If we determine the patient is a good candidate for the procedure and in good health, we will then explain the next steps in going forward with the procedure. The amount of MMA material used may vary depending on the patient. Our doctors at Line will work with the patient to decide all the necessary details that will ultimately give you the best skull reshaping results.
Flat head syndrome, also known as positional plagiocephaly, is a condition characterized by a flattened appearance on one side of the infant’s head. It typically results from prolonged pressure on the same spot of the baby’s head, often due to sleeping position preferences or the use of infant carriers. In adults, flat heads can be caused by various factors, including congenital abnormalities, trauma, or disease. Correcting flat heads is essential for both cosmetic and functional reasons, as it can lead to improved self-esteem and alleviate issues related to craniofacial abnormalities.
MMA IMPLANTS vs. SILICONE IMPLANTS
In the world of craniofacial surgery, correcting flat heads is a common concern, especially in cases of infants with plagiocephaly or adults with craniofacial deformities. Over the years, various surgical interventions have been developed to address this issue, with MMA (Methyl Methacrylate) implants and silicone implants emerging as two popular choices. In this extensive exploration, we will delve into the realm of craniofacial surgery, comparing MMA implants and silicone implants in terms of their efficacy, safety, and overall suitability for correcting flat heads.
MMA IMPLANTS
MMA implants have gained popularity for their use in craniofacial surgery. These implants are made of a biocompatible material called Methyl Methacrylate, which can be molded and shaped to fit the patient’s specific craniofacial structure. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of MMA implants:
Advantages of MMA Implants:
– Customization: MMA implants can be tailored to precisely fit the patient’s head shape, ensuring a natural appearance.
– Safety: MMA implants have a long history of safe use in medical and cosmetic procedures.
– Durability: MMA implants are known for their long-lasting properties, with minimal risk of degradation over time.
– Immediate Results: Patients typically experience a noticeable improvement in head shape immediately after the surgery.
– Low Risk of Infection: When performed by a skilled surgeon, the risk of infection with MMA implants is relatively low.
Disadvantages of MMA implants:
– Reversibility: MMA implants can be removed, but it is more technically challenging, and so the removal operation can take more time.
SILICONE IMPLANTS
Silicone implants are another option for correcting flat heads, often considered for their versatility and safety. These implants are made of medical-grade silicone, and they come in various shapes and sizes. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of silicone implants:
Advantages of Silicone Implants:
– Safety: Silicone implants have a long history of safe use in medical and cosmetic procedures.
– Reversibility: Silicone implants are relatively easy to remove if needed, making them a less permanent solution.
Disadvantages of Silicone implants:
– Limited customization: Silicone implants may not provide as precise and customized results as MMA implants. Customized silicone implants that are 3-D printed require CT scans and are often expensive, while non-customized silicone implants often have some “slits” in the implant design which can lead to bleeding complications 2-10 years later (we have seen several of these in our clinic).
* At LINE, we prefer MMA implants over silicone implants for flat head reshaping (either back of head or forehead). Both MMA implants and silicone implants have their merits and limitations when it comes to correcting flat heads. The choice between these options depends on the patient’s specific needs, preferences, and the surgeon’s recommendations. In our opinion, MMA implants offer highly customizable, permanent results that are superior to the results with silicone implants. The goal is to improve the flat head shape, and therefore to improve the appearance of individuals dealing with flat head syndrome.
SURGERY DETAILS
Forehead (Frontal) Skull Reshaping procedures are performed under IV-sedation in our operation room in approximately 60-90 minutes. Patients will not need to shave their hair for this procedure. The incisions will vary depending on the patient and is made in the scalp just above the skull.
To fill and create more volume on the skull, for a more oblong–rounded shape, our doctors use a special bone cement called polymethyl methacrylate also known as PMMA. PMMA is biologically compatible and will bond smoothly to your bone. After the material is filled and shaped to the correct area and desired shape, a surgical stapler will be used to close the incision.
This material has been used since the 1940’s in plastic surgery to close gaps in the skull and in orthopedics.
RECOVERY & POST OPERATION
– After your Forehead (Frontal) Skull Augmentation surgery, you will take your prescribed antibiotics for the first seven days.
– Pain should be tolerated with over the counter or prescribed medication. If pain is intolerable, please contact our clinic.
– For 3-4 days after your surgery, ice massage the area around your eyes (NOT the area around the procedure) for 30 minutes a day.
– Your first follow up visit will be in three days to remove the bandage. During your visit, our doctors will make sure the area is healing well.
– Four days after the surgery you can start shampooing your hair. Avoid getting water directly onto the site of the incision. Use a natural fragrance-free shampoo and low water pressure to shampoo your hair. Be extra careful not to irritate the area of incision.
– After 1 week we will remove your staples, and this will be your last required follow up unless told otherwise by our doctors.
– For at least one week after your surgery, avoid alcohol and smoking.
– You may go to sauna and get a haircut 2 weeks after surgery. Perms or hair dye can be done 2 months after surgery.
– Light exercise is allowed after 1 week. Any intensive workout or swimming can be done 1 month after surgery.
– Avoid hitting your forehead against anything and keep your head protected carefully for the first three months.
FROM OUR DOCTORS
“MMA or “head reshaping” or “skull reshaping” is one of our most popular specialty procedures, since (as far as I know) we are one of the only clinics in North America to perform this. It’s a nice, quick procedure that offers patients a visible improvement to their head shape.
My goal is to always give patients as much augmentation as possible, from experience with patient requests and what makes them happy. There are of course limitations on how much I use, depending on how much the skin will stretch. In most cases, I tell patients they can expect about a 10-15mm additional projection in the flat area that they want to round out. In general, it is a wonderful procedure for improving shape. If patients are looking for a huge amount of volume and projection, it won’t be able to do that because of skin stretch limitations. But for rounding out flattened areas, it’s fantastic.”
– DR. HSU
“We can create more volume and better contour in the back or the front of the head. Some people were born with flat areas in the back of the head, the forehad, or the top of the head. This can look especially obvious with short haircuts or ponytails.
This is a highly specialized procedure that safely adds volume and re-contours the head with a minimal incision technique. It was pioneered in South Korea, and done by very few clinics in the U.S. Patients travel from all across the U.S. to have this operations done by me at Line Plastic Surgery.
Traditional options for skull reshaping is very invasive. It requires making a large incision across the entire head in order to fit a large customized plastic, mesh, or metal implant. CT scans are needed to design the implants. This process is time consuming, expensive, and leaves large scars. My technique with MMA (bone cement) is personalized for every patient’s unique head shape without the problems associated with traditional methods. ”
– DR. YAO
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What will my Forehead (Frontal) Skull Reshaping results be like?
Initially the shape and size of the forehead area after Frontal Skull Reshaping will be exaggerated due to the swelling and bruising but over a period of 1-2 months, it will settle down and achieve an ideal round, smooth shape. For best results, follow our detailed post-op instructions that we give to every patient. The staples are typically removed after 1 week. With your newly augmented forehead, you can expect to look more aesthetically balanced and youthful. Compared to silicone skull implants, there will be no appearance of anything “poking out” because it is bonded to your skull.
How long does Forehead (Frontal) Skull Reshaping take?
Frontal Skull Reshaping is done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia under IV sedation. The procedure takes about 60 – 90 minutes.
Are there any Forehead (Frontal) Skull Reshaping risks?
Fortunately, most of the major risks of Frontal Skull Reshaping are minimal when booking with a board-certified plastic surgeon at LINE Plastic Surgery. You may experience some mild swelling after the procedure. Patients find that the recovery time is faster than other craniofacial procedures.
Can the MMA material be taken out?
The MMA is a permanent implant that will stay in place and will not be absorbed by the body. However, it is possible to take the MMA material out and revert back to the original head shape. This will be another surgery to remove the MMA material.
SCHEDULE A
CONSULTATION
We are looking forward to meeting you in person, hearing your aspirations, and tailoring a surgical plan especially for you. We hope our in-person consultation will answer all of your questions, provide you a sense of confidence and also further your excitement of the path you are on.