FAQ

Brow Lift: Frequently Asked Questions

Considering brow lift surgery? If so, you probably have lots of questions, and you may have some concerns. Here are some of the most common questions about brow lift, along with their answers:

  1. What is a brow lift?
  2. At what age is a brow lift usually performed?
  3. What does a typical brow lift consultation entail?
  4. How is a brow lift performed?
  5. What is an endoscopic brow lift?
  6. What is a non-invasive brow lift?
  7. What should I expect postoperatively?
  8. When will the stitches or surgical staples be removed? Does this hurt?
  9. When will I be able to see the results of my brow lift surgery?
  10. What are the risks of brow lift?
  11. Are the results permanent?

 

1. What is a brow lift?

A brow lift, sometimes called a forehead lift, is plastic surgery to lift the brow. The procedure can reduce or eliminate furrows in the brow and alleviate an angry or tired look by excising a bit of skin and lifting the muscles of the brow higher. It can also correct drooping or sagging eyebrows. There are several techniques for a brow lift that provide varying amounts of correction.

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2. At what age is a brow lift usually performed?

There really is no age requirement. A brow lift is can be performed on someone as young as their late 20s and at any age after that. For younger patients, there are endoscopic techniques that provide a less intensive lift than their parents may need. Other techniques, such as the coronal lift, provide more extensive lifting.

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3. What does a typical brow lift consultation entail?

First, your surgeon will examine you and discuss your medical history. He or she will then go over brow lift types and the options that can best help you attain your goals. The surgeon may also discuss other cosmetic procedures that could enhance a brow lift, such as eyelid surgery. Together you will discuss the risks and complications of brow lift surgery, as well as anesthesia choices, fees and what to expect postoperatively. A consultation is the time to ask questions, raise any concerns you may have and determine if this surgeon is right for you, so go into it prepared and with an open mind.

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4. How is a brow lift performed?

There are many types of brow lifts. Incision length and placement depends on the type of brow lift you are having and is determined in advance by your surgeon.

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5. What is an endoscopic brow lift?

An endoscopic brow lift is performed using an endoscope, or tiny camera, that is inserted under the skin on a thin probe. The endoscope transmits images to a monitor in the operating room that the surgeon uses to guide his or her work. Numerous tiny incisions are hidden behind the hairline. An endoscopic brow lift is useful for individuals who don't need a lot of lift.

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6. What is a non-invasive brow lift?

Ulthera uses ultrasound energy to refresh your eyes and tighten the skin on your forehead non-invasively (without incisions) by stimulating collagen growth. This non-surgical brow lift produces results that appear gradually for up to six months.

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7. What should I expect postoperatively?

A swollen, tender and bruised forehead is normal following your surgery and should subside in about 10 days. In addition to pressure bandages, there may be thin drains in place to remove excess blood and fluid. Your surgeon will give you instructions for dealing with these until they are removed. He or she will also give information on painkillers, antibiotics, and what types of activities are OK – follow these instructions carefully. Expect to be groggy from the anesthesia for a day of two; sleep is a good antidote and will aid in the healing process. Your first postoperative visit and bandage change could come as soon as the day after your brow lift surgery.

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8. When will the stitches or surgical staples be removed? Does this hurt?

Stitches are usually removed five to seven days after surgery, while surgical staples are left in place for up to 10 days. Their removal may hurt a little, but your surgeon can give you injections of a local anesthetic to make you more comfortable.

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9. When will I be able to see the results of my brow lift surgery?

The results of a brow lift begin to emerge as the swelling goes away. Full results should be visible within a few months. Numbness along the incisions should subside by six months after surgery, but may remain indefinitely in a few patients.

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10. What are the risks of brow lift?

All surgery has risks. With a brow lift, there is a chance of infection, excessive scarring, hematoma (blood clots), numbness from nerve damage and hyperpigmentation (permanent skin discoloration) caused by the bruising.

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11. Are the results permanent?

Brow lift results are semi-permanent. After your brow lift, you will look younger and more relaxed for many years. The effects of less invasive brow lifts, like the endoscopic technique, may not last as long as those from more traditional or coronal techniques. Accept that as you continue to age, your brow will continue to droop. A future brow lift is always an option.

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