Brow lift, also known as forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that minimizes creases in the forehead and wrinkles between the eyebrows commonly known as “frown lines.” A brow lift can also connect the sagging skin underneath the eyebrows that gives the eyelids a hooded appearance. It should be noted that a brow lift will not improve wrinkles or puffiness around the eyes – it can only lift the skin. These problem areas may be better treated through Botox Cosmetic® or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery); your plastic surgeon will explain all available options for your specific areas of concern.
Endoscopic brow lift utilizes an endoscope to provide real-time imaging of the inside of your brow. The endoscope and other small surgical instruments are placed through small incisions in your hairline. The endoscopic technique effectively corrects frown lines while minimizing scarring.
An alternative brow lift technique is the coronal brow lift, which can target specific portions of the brow. In this technique, an incision is made from ear to ear, the forehead is lifted, and excess skin is removed from the scalp. The large incision associated with a coronal brow lift usually requires a longer recovery period than the small incisions of an endoscopic brow lift.
Before undergoing brow lift surgery, your plastic surgeon will perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and address any concerns you may have about the procedure. Bring along a list of all medications you are taking, as some may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery. To effectively cover post-surgical incisions, you should grow your hair out before surgery. If your brow lift is being performed on an outpatient basis, bring a friend or relative along to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you the first night.
Brow lift surgery may be performed at a hospital, an ambulatory center, or an office-based surgical suite using general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, incisions will be made in your forehead and the skin will be lifted. When surgery is complete, incisions will be closed with sutures or bandages and you will be taken to a recovery area. Both during and immediately after brow lift surgery, your vitals will be monitored closely. The procedure may last anywhere from one to three hours depending on the surgical technique used.
Most patients return home the same day as their brow lift surgery; in certain cases, an overnight stay may be necessary. There may be some swelling and bruising associated with the surgery, but those usually fade within two weeks. Any swelling that remains after the first week can be concealed with makeup. Bandages over the surgical site are usually removed within three days after brow lift surgery, while sutures are removed within ten days. Within six months, scarring will fade and swelling will subside. You should be able to resume regular activities within four to six weeks following surgery.
All surgical procedures carry a risk of complications. Although they seldom occur, risks associated with brow lift surgery may include infection, bleeding, or complications from the anesthesia. To minimize the occurrence of complications, always choose a board-certified plastic surgeon for your procedure and follow all post-operative instructions closely.
To find out if brow lift surgery is right for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our board-certified plastic surgeon.
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