What Is A Brow Lift?
A brow lift, also called an endobrow lift or a forehead lift, is
a surgical procedure designed to reduce sagging in the skin on
the forehead, upper eyelids, and eyebrows. Brow lifts are most
often used to help reverse signs of aging, usually in
individuals over the age of 40, although this procedure is
suitable for adult patients of any age. As the body ages, skin
loses some of its elasticity and resilience. This trend, along
with years of skin exposure to environmental effects, can result
in the formation of deep wrinkles and droopy skin. A brow lift
can help reverse the process by minimizing creases in the
forehead and reducing furrowed brow lines, droopy eyebrows, and
hooding over the eyes.
Brow lifts are typically outpatient procedures. They may be
performed under local or general anesthetic depending on the
extent of the work needed. The surgery can be accomplished using
one of two techniques: the classic lift or the endoscopic lift.
The classic lift makes use of a single continuous incision which
runs along the hairline from one ear to the other. Sagging
tissues are manipulated into place and portions of the muscles
and skin causing the deep lines and wrinkles are removed.
The endoscopic lift makes use of several short incisions that
run along the scalp. A scope is inserted into one of the
incisions so the surgeon can view the tissues and muscles. A
second scope is then inserted into another incision, so that the
necessary modifications can be made to the underlying muscles
and tissues. Tiny titanium anchors inserted under the skin near
the hairline serve to secure sagging tissue. The advantage of
the endoscopic procedure is that it is much less invasive than
the classic lift, allowing for a reduced recovery time and
minimal scarring.
Both the classic and endoscopic lift methods require stitches or
staples to close the incisions. Some procedures will also make
use of temporary fixation screws, removed after two weeks, which
hold the reconstructed brow in place while the body heals. All
patients should expect swelling and bruising of the face,
including those areas adjacent to the brow. Keeping the head
elevated as much for possible for the first few days after
surgery will help minimize these side-effects. Other possible
side-effects include temporary numbness of the face and
headaches. Patients of a classic brow lift may also find that
they experience some itching and hair loss.
Brow lifts, as with any other type of surgical procedure, do
present some potential risks. Patients run the risk of
developing an infection around the incision sites. They may
experience facial muscle weakness and stiffness, as well as
excessive scarring. Other, more serious side-effects can include
permanent damage to facial nerves and loss of facial motion.
For more information about brow lifts and to determine if this
procedure is right for you, contact a local cosmetic surgeon and
arrange for a personal consultation.