The eyes and forehead are often the first area to belie your age. Creases can begin to form across the forehead as early as the 30s, aging your appearance far too early. In addition, those lines and early sagging can make you look tired, angry or sad, even if that is not how you really feel.
A brow lift, also referred to as a forehead lift, is effective in removing deep horizontal wrinkles across the brow as well as frown lines that appear between the eyebrows. In addition, a brow lift raises the eyebrows to a more youthful position, opening up the eyes and eliminating the chronically fatigued look that often comes with age. When the eyebrows are raised, hooding of the upper eyelids that contributes to the tired look is also eliminated.
Best Candidates
The best candidates for a brow lift are men and women in relatively good health with realistic expectations about what the surgery can do. Brow lifts can be used to address the following aesthetic concerns:
- Deep furrows (frown lines) between the eyes or across the bridge of the nose
- Horizontal creases across the forehead
- A sagging forehead that results in hooding of the upper eyelid
- Sagging eyebrows that create a tired, sad appearance
- Protruding tissue at the outer part of the eyelids
Brow lifts may be performed alone or in combination with other procedures to maximize results. Common procedures performed with brow lifts include a facelift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and skin rejuvenation procedures.
About the Procedure
Brow lifts are usually performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthetic and sedation. General anesthesia may also be used for some patients. The traditional procedure involves an incision in the hairline that allows the surgeon to pull and tighten everything from the brow line up. The procedure may also be performed endoscopically on some patients, resulting in smaller incisions and a shorter downtime afterward.
A brow lift generally takes 1-2 hours to complete. After the procedure, patients remain in recovery for a period of time for observation. At that point, patients are usually allowed to return home to continue their recovery.
Recovery and Results
Patients will experience some bruising and swelling during the first 7-10 days after surgery. Pain medication and ice packs can help to relieve any discomfort experienced during this time. Patients will typically return to work and regular activities within 2-3 weeks.
The results of a brow lift are visible right away, although the full results may not be evident until all swelling and bruising subsides. Scarring becomes minimal over time and is usually hidden in natural skin creases or behind the hairline. Brow lifts are considered permanent cosmetic treatments, although the effects of aging may reappear over time.
Dr. Leber and his staff are here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals in a safe and caring environment. If you’re interested in scheduling a procedure, reach us by phone (480) 945-5522 or email us.