While forehead osteomas are harmless and do not cause further health issues, they may cause discomfort. Unfortunately, they often lead to problems with self-esteem or self-image. Most of the time, people choose to have them surgically removed because of how they appear.
What is a Forehead Osteoma?
An osteoma is a relatively common, developing lesion commonly found on the forehead, but which can also appear on the neck. The benign lump is comprised of bone and might appear as a single lump or many lumps beneath the skin. They may be noticeable from birth or develop with time.
The osteomas typically grow slowly. There is currently no known cause of forehead osteomas. They can arise from a head injury, but the source of osteomas visible from birth is unknown.
How Does One Get Rid of a Forehead Osteoma?
A forehead osteoma can usually be removed in 30 minutes or less with a minimally invasive endoscopic method, with a short recovery time. However, the course of the incision will be determined by the position of the osteoma. A forehead osteoma can be surgically removed in a variety of ways. Among them are:
- The direct incision approach: this method requires the surgeon to make an incision directly over the osteoma. A tiny bone chisel is used to remove the bone. The osteoma is then detached at the base and flattened, resulting in a flat forehead surface.
- Minimal access technique: this method is frequently favored for people who do not desire an incision made directly over their forehead osteoma and for people whose bone is not as firm. In this approach, the incision is hidden within the hairline. The elevated region is flattened once the osteoma is scraped off.
It may be necessary to take a CT scan first to ensure the bone lesion is not attached to other structures. Dr. Benjamin Stong will thoroughly consult you before your operation to determine which approach is best for you.
Are You a Good Candidate for Forehead Osteoma Removal?
Before removing a forehead osteoma, it must be proven that the growth is indeed an osteoma. Lipomas are frequently mistaken for forehead osteomas. However, there is a significant difference between lipomas and osteomas. Lipomas are comprised of fatty tissue, whereas osteomas are formed of bone. When touched, a lipoma will feel soft and wiggle, while an osteoma will feel firm and not budge.
Patients must meet the following criteria to have a forehead osteoma removed:
- Mentally and physically healthy
- 18 years of age or older
- Have a healthy BMI
- Have reasonable expectations about what surgery can accomplish
What Occurs After the Procedure?
The removal of a forehead osteoma is regarded as a minimally invasive operation. As a result, most people can return to work the next day.
It is common to feel some swelling around the osteoma removal site, which can be alleviated with an ice pack. Additionally, you may feel some minor discomfort and soreness. Dr. Stong can give you medication to help ease any symptoms.
Are you interested in removing a forehead osteoma? Contact Kalos Facial Plastic Surgery today to book a consultation.
