The forehead and brow ridge account for a large proportion of the upper face, and their shape is one of the strongest cues the brain uses to read gender. Forehead and brow bone contouring reshapes this area to create a smoother, rounder profile — opening up the eye area and softening the entire face in a way that many patients describe as the single most transformative element of their feminization journey.
What Is Forehead & Brow Bone Contouring?
The brow ridge is formed by the frontal bone, which in individuals with testosterone-driven development tends to project prominently above the eyes and contains a pneumatised frontal sinus cavity behind it. This bossing creates a shadowed, heavy appearance around the eyes that is strongly associated with a masculine facial type. Forehead and brow bone contouring addresses this by reducing the bony prominence, reshaping the forehead curvature, and — where necessary — reconstructing the anterior wall of the frontal sinus.
This procedure is most commonly performed as part of a comprehensive facial feminization plan but can also be done as a standalone operation. When combined with a brow lift or hairline advancement, the overall effect on the upper face is dramatic: a smooth, convex forehead, higher-set brows, and an open, bright-eyed expression.
Common Concerns Forehead & Brow Bone Contouring Can Address
- Heavy, prominent brow ridge that casts shadows over the eyes
- Flat or sloped forehead that reads as masculine in profile
- Deep-set eyes caused by excessive brow bone projection
- An upper face that feels out of harmony with feminized lower features
Are You a Good Candidate?
- Trans women or transfeminine individuals seeking a softer upper facial contour
- In good health with no history of frontal sinus disease or infection
- Non-smoker or willing to stop at least four weeks before surgery
Techniques & Options
Forehead contouring requires precise planning because the frontal sinus sits directly behind the brow ridge in most patients. The degree of bossing, the thickness of the anterior sinus wall, and the overall forehead shape determine which technique your surgeon will recommend. Pre-operative CT scanning is essential to map the sinus anatomy and ensure the safest, most effective approach.
The two principal techniques are:
Type III Forehead Reconstruction
The gold standard for significant brow bossing. The anterior wall of the frontal sinus is carefully removed, reshaped and thinned, and then reset in a more recessed position using titanium micro-screws or absorbable plates. The surrounding bone is burred smooth to create a seamless, rounded contour.
- Addresses even the most prominent brow ridges
- Allows maximum reduction by repositioning the sinus wall
- Creates a smooth, naturally convex forehead
- Titanium fixation is permanent and biocompatible
Type I Forehead Contouring (Burring Only)
For patients with a thick sinus wall and mild to moderate bossing, the surgeon can reduce the brow ridge by carefully burring the bone without entering the frontal sinus. This is a less invasive approach with a slightly shorter operating time.
- Suitable for mild bossing where the sinus wall is thick
- No need to enter the frontal sinus cavity
- Shorter procedure and slightly faster initial recovery
- Can be combined with bone cement for additional contouring
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Significant swelling around the forehead, eyes, and upper cheeks peaks around day two, a direct response to the bone work beneath. Bruising beneath the eyes is common. You will remain in hospital overnight with head elevation, ice packs, and IV pain management. A compressive headband may be applied.
Days 4–7
Swelling begins to subside, and bruising yellows as it resolves. You will be discharged to your hotel with oral pain medication and detailed aftercare instructions. Avoid bending forward or any activity that raises blood pressure to the head. Daily check-ins from your care coordinator continue.
Weeks 2–3
Most visible swelling has resolved and the smoother forehead contour is becoming apparent. Sutures or staples are removed at your follow-up appointment. Numbness across the forehead persists at this stage but improves steadily over the coming weeks. You can resume light activities and most patients feel comfortable being out in public.
Months 2–6
Residual deep swelling resolves and the recontoured forehead becomes clearly defined. Sensation returns progressively over several months. Most patients recognise the settled shape by four to six months, with full sensation recovery taking up to a year in some cases.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
Forehead contouring is a well-established craniofacial procedure, but it involves working on bone in close proximity to the frontal sinus and the brain's protective coverings. When performed by experienced craniofacial surgeons in accredited facilities, serious complications are rare.
- Prolonged swelling and bruising around the eyes
- Temporary or extended forehead numbness
- Contour irregularities requiring touch-up
- Frontal sinus mucocele (very rare, specific to Type III)
- Infection or hardware-related complication (rare)
- Temporary hair thinning along the incision line
A pre-operative CT scan is mandatory to assess your frontal sinus anatomy and bone thickness. These images are reviewed with you so that you understand exactly what the procedure involves, including any risks specific to your anatomy, before you make a decision.
How Much Does Forehead & Brow Bone Contouring Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Forehead & Brow Bone Contouring
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Forehead & Brow Bone Contouring
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Kanokwan Pattanaporn
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDGender Affirmation Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 25, 2026
Medical References
- Capitán L et al. Facial Feminization Surgery: The Forehead. Surgical Techniques and Analysis of Results — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2014)
- Spiegel JH. Facial Determinants of Female Gender and Feminizing Forehead Cranioplasty — Laryngoscope (2011)
- Ousterhout DK. Feminization of the Forehead: Contour Changing to Improve Female Aesthetics — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (1987)
- WPATH Standards of Care Version 8 (2022)
- Morrison SD et al. Facial Feminization: Systematic Review of the Literature — Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2016)
Medical disclaimer: Content on this site is provided for informational purposes and should not be treated as medical advice. Outcomes, timelines, and eligibility differ from person to person. Speak with an experienced gender-affirming surgeon before proceeding with any procedure.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Ready to Get Started?
Speak with our care coordinators for a free, no-obligation consultation and personalised quote.
Speak to Our Team
