Brow lift

Brow lift, also known as forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that reduces wrinkle lines that develop horizontally across the forehead as well as the bridge of nose, between the eyes. It also improves frown lines, the vertical creases the develop in between the eye brows and helps to raise sagging brows that are hooding the upper eyelids. This places the eyebrows in an alert and youthful position.

As we age, unsightly wrinkle lines may appear on the forehead making us look angry or “too serious”. Skin relaxation may cause the eyebrows to droop or sag, making us look tired. If you are bothered by these lines of aging, this procedure might be suitable for you.

A thorough discussion must be made with your plastic surgeon, to include your surgical goals, medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments as well as previous surgeries. Other available options and the likely outcomes of the brow lift, including risks or potential complications, should be explained to you.

You may be asked to get blood tests or a medical evaluation to assess your fitness for anesthesia. 

If you have an underlying medical condition and you are on certain medications, the dosage or consumption instructions may be changed prior to your surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplementations as they can increase bleeding in surgery, unless indicated by your doctor.

Brow lift procedure is usually done under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. 

The procedure can be performed in different ways, ie endoscopic or open.

Endoscopic – A tube with a camera on the end and special instruments are placed through small incisions made within the hairline. This allows the tissue and muscle beneath the skin to be adjusted, correcting the source of visible creases and furrows in the forehead. Anchor devices likes Endotine or screws may be inserted to lift tissues. The scars are usually almost invisible if heal properly.

Open- Some surgeons prefer to perform this procedure through a “coronal incision” .This incision is created from ear to ear across the top of the head within the hair- bearing skin. The forehead skin is then lifted and any muscle adjustment can be performed under direct visualization. The resulting scar is well concealed within the hair, making it hardly visible.

For women with very high foreheads, an incision just at the anterior hairline may be recommended. This way the brow can be lifted without altering the height of the front hairline. The resulting scar, whilst somewhat visible, can often be hidden with bangs.

Expect some swelling and bruising after the surgery. Results will appear within a few weeks as swelling and bruising get better. It will then reveal the desired smoother forehead skin, more youthful and rested appearance.

A thin tube may be placed just under the skin to drain excess blood or fluid. This is left temporarily usually for first few days after the surgery.

You will also be advised to keep your head elevated after the surgery and to perform no vigorous physical activities.

You will be given medications such as painkillers and antibiotics. Recovery time is highly variable between different person; hence it is important to attend follow-up appointments after surgery.

Initial wound healing will take 10 to 14 days. Sutures or clips (depending which was used by surgeon) will be removed when deemed appropriate by your surgeon.