The effects of aging are inevitable, and often the brow and forehead area show the first signs. As the skin begins to lose its elasticity, heaviness of the eyebrows and the upper eyelids present an increase in the amount of skin between the brow and lash line. The effect is usually a tired, angry, or sad expression, which may not reflect how you actually feel. Even people in their thirties may have faces that look older than their years. As a result, many people have opted for a procedure known as the forehead or brow lift. To see what a forehead lift can do for you, put your hands above your brows and the outside edges of your eyes and gently raise the skin upwards for a smoother brow and a more youthful expression.
Making the Decision
Your choice of a qualified facial plastic surgeon is of paramount importance. During the consultation, your surgeon will examine your facial structure, the condition of your skin and your hairline in order to decide where incisions should be made. A thorough medical history will be obtained so that your surgeon can consider any medical conditions. As with all elective surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites. Not infrequently, a brow lift is combined with Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) for total upper facial rejuvenation.
After the decision to proceed with surgery is made, the surgeon will describe the technique indicated, the type of anesthesia, the surgical facility, any additional recommended surgery, risks and costs.
Understanding the Surgery
With an endoscopic approach, the surgeon makes a series of small incisions just behind the hairline and, using an endoscope the size of a drinking straw for visualization, proceeds to elevate and raise the eyebrows up to 2 cm. For a more dramatic result, the incision is made slightly behind the natural hairline, running from ear to ear across the top of the head. The eyebrows are then lifted and excess skin is trimmed to reduce the sagging of skin at eyelid level. However, if the patient is balding or has a receding hairline, the incision will be made in the mid-forehead area or at the hairline, along a natural line to minimize scar visibility. Excess skin and tissue will also be removed before fine sutures or metal clips are applied.
Depending on the nature of the incisions and the surgeon’s preference, incisions are secured with staples and the area is compressed with bandages. The procedure usually lasts one to two hours.
What to Expect After the Surgery
You will experience a certain amount of swelling and bruising lasting for approximately 10 days. In some patients, this may include the cheek and eye area as well. You will be advised to keep your head elevated in order to reduce swelling and cold compresses may be used. As the incisions heal, you may experience some tingling, numbness, as well as itching, which will diminish with time. If bandages have been used, they are removed in 2 days and staples are usually removed in 7-8 days. Normal activities may be resumed after one week, however, patients will be advised to avoid strenuous activities for two weeks. Total healing takes approximately 6 weeks.
Keep all post operative appointments as scheduled. Anything unusual should be reported to your doctor immediately.