Brow or Forehead Lift

While many people seek cosmetic eyelid surgery for “tired eyes”, it is often actually the position of the brow or forehead that has sagged as a result of overactive muscles in the brow and forehead region. Heredity, or the way we age is also a factor. A brow or forehead lift can be performed to lift the eyebrows as well as help reduce the wrinkles of lines along the forehead between the browns, helping to restore a more youthful and relaxed appearance. In the past a brow or forehead lift required a long incision across the top of the head from ear to ear. Now, using the endoscope, we can elevate the deeper tissue and secure the brow tissue in a higher position, thus creating only 3-5 short incisions hidden in the scalp. Using this technique, we can create a softer, relaxed and rejuvenated facial appearance, thus improving your image and self-esteem.

CANDIDATE FOR BROW OR FOREHEAD LIFT

The best candidates are healthy non-smokers with a positive outlook and realistic goals in mind. At the time of your consultation your goals, the procedure, routine postoperative healing process will be explained in detail and all of your questions answered. Your medical history will be reviewed to ensure you are a healthy candidate for surgery.

THE BROW OR FOREHEAD LIFT PROCEDURE

Several small incisions are made along the hairline to insert the endoscope and endoscopic instruments. This allows the tissue and muscle beneath the skin to be repositioned, altered or removed, correcting the source of visible creases and sagging skin in the forehead. The image from the endoscope is displayed on a TV monitor. Local anesthetic solution is injected to reduce bleeding and bruising. A resorbable tacking device is used to secure the brow tissue at a higher level. Sometimes, additional procedures such as fat grafting may be needed to fill in areas of deep wrinkles. The brow or forehead lift procedure is done on an outpatient basis taking 1-2 hours to perform and is done under general anesthesia. After the procedure is completed your forehead and head may be loosely wrapped to minimize bruising and swelling.

AFTER SURGERY

Your forehead may be swollen, bruised and sore for several weeks following surgery. It may take several months for all of the swelling to completely dissipate. You will keep your head elevated at all times for several days to help minimize any swelling. Some facial movements may be restricted or temporarily impaired and you may experience some numbness. All of these are common conditions. Make-up can be used to camouflage any bruising that remains. Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling resolves and incision lines refine and fade. Vigorous exercise routines may resume 4 weeks following your surgery. You may return to work one week after surgery.

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for the brow or forehead lift procedure is to schedule a consultation. You will learn what are reasonable expectations for the goals you wish to achieve.