The Frontalis Muscle and Hair Transplantation: The Great Barrier

The hairline design is one of the biggest concerns for our patients. In fact, it can make or break a final result. The recommendation is clear: trust the advice of the doctor performing the transplant. And the reason is straightforward — there is a major challenge in that design: the frontalis muscle and the hair transplant.

Throughout the process at the Instituto Médico del Prado, two key moments will be decisive in shaping the hair transplant design. The first takes place during the diagnosis and assessment consultation, where the best strategy for the procedure will be discussed. The second comes on the day of the transplant itself, when the hairline will be drawn.

It is always important to aim for a natural design and to follow the guidance of your own doctor. One of the golden rules is, under no circumstances, to place the hair transplant over the frontalis muscle. Implanting follicles into this tissue will result in complete failure.

How to Identify the Frontalis Muscle in a Hair Transplant

The frontalis — or occipitofrontalis — muscle sits between the eyes and the front hairline. It is the muscle that allows us to frown or raise our eyebrows. As noted, this is a tissue that is not suitable for follicle implantation.

Implanting in this area can lead to several complications, including the formation of a pigmented area around the implanted follicle or the appearance of indentations at the implantation site. The result will be visibly unacceptable and must be considered a failure.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How will I know my transplant has not been designed over the frontalis muscle?

The best way to ensure the transplant is not placed over the frontalis muscle is to work with a highly experienced hair specialist. A skilled doctor will be able to accurately define the design boundaries. The key, therefore, is to trust their professional guidance.

Can a transplant placed in the frontalis muscle be reversed?

A transplant performed over the frontalis muscle can be corrected. The work of a skilled doctor is required to remove all follicles located within that tissue and to restore a new, natural-looking hairline.

What makes a good hairline design?

A good hair transplant design should be a shared decision between doctor and patient. It is always advisable to follow the specialist’s recommendations and to avoid requesting a hairline that is set too low, as this can make the transplant look artificial.

Dr. Espinosa Custodio works at the Instituto Médico del Prado, his hair clinic in Madrid and in Mexico City. To book an appointment, you can contact us by phone at 912 468 664, via WhatsApp at 627 396 322, or through the contact page on our website. If you are calling from Mexico, our number is +52 55 4590 9909.