Migraine surgery
A surgical option for some people with chronic migraine — targeting trigger sites after careful diagnosis and testing
What is migraine surgery?
In some people with migraine, an attack starts at a specific point where a small sensory nerve is irritated by pressure from a nearby muscle, blood vessel or tissue. These points are called “trigger sites”; common ones are the forehead above the eye, the temple, the back of the head and inside the nose.
The operation aims to release the nerve from what is pressing on it, or remove the irritating tissue around it, through small incisions usually hidden in the eyelid crease or within the hairline. The goal is fewer, milder and shorter attacks — it does not replace follow-up with a neurologist.
This surgery is not suitable for everyone with headaches. The path starts with a confirmed migraine diagnosis from a neurologist, then identifying and testing trigger sites with temporary injections before surgery is considered. The doctor assesses each case individually.
Could migraine surgery suit you?
Book a consultation so the doctor can review your diagnosis and attack history and explain whether testing makes sense for you.
Book an appointment WhatsApp usWho is it suitable for?
Diagnosed migraine
People with chronic migraine confirmed by a neurologist, with ongoing neurology follow-up.
Not enough relief from medication
Those whose preventive medicines have not reduced attacks enough, or who could not tolerate their side effects.
Pain that starts in one place
When attacks usually start at a specific site such as the forehead, temple, back of the head or behind the eye.
A positive test
Those whose attacks clearly improved after a temporary test injection at the trigger site — an important sign of the chance of benefit.
Who it does not suit
Undiagnosed headaches, medication-overuse headache that has not been treated first, or anyone expecting a guaranteed cure. The doctor will point you to a better-suited option.
Treatment steps
Diagnosis and headache diary
Confirming the diagnosis with a neurologist and recording attacks — where they start and how strong they are — for several weeks.
Mapping trigger sites
Clinical examination and a review of the diary to identify the site or sites where attacks begin.
Test injection
Temporary injections (Botox or a nerve block) at the trigger site, then tracking attacks to judge the response before deciding.
Surgery
Releasing the nerve from what compresses it through small incisions, at one site or more depending on the test results.
Follow-up
Regular reviews and a headache diary after surgery, with continued coordination with your neurologist.
Recovery stages
Mild swelling and bruising around the incision and pain controlled with prescribed painkillers; sleep with the head raised.
Stitches usually removed at 7-10 days; most people return to desk work within one to two weeks.
A gradual return to exercise once the doctor agrees; mild numbness of the forehead or scalp may last for a while.
The effect on attack frequency and severity is assessed with the headache diary; results vary from person to person.
Risks and possible complications
Like any operation, this surgery has possible risks, which the doctor explains in detail before you decide:
- Numbness, tingling or itching of the forehead or scalp, which usually improves with time
- Attacks continuing or returning, or a new trigger site that was not treated
- Bleeding, a blood collection or infection at the wound
- A scar at the incision or slight hair thinning around it
- A slight difference in eyebrow movement or symmetry
- The usual risks of anaesthesia
Frequently asked questions about migraine surgery
Does surgery cure migraine for good?
Do I need a neurologist?
What is the role of Botox before surgery?
Where are the incisions?
Will I stop my migraine medicines after surgery?
When will I know the result?
Related services
Start with an assessment of your migraine attacks
A consultation where the doctor reviews your diagnosis and attack history, and explains whether a test injection is a sensible next step for you.