A brow lift is a subtle and effective way to provide a more youthful, refreshed look to the forehead area by diminishing drooping eyebrows, forehead wrinkles and furrows between the eyes. Also called a forehead lift, this procedure can be custom-tailored to meet your facial rejuvenation goals.

Who can benefit from a brow lift?

A brow lift is most often used to reverse natural signs of facial aging in patients 40-60 years of age. Younger adults who feel self-conscious about premature facial aging due to stress or genetics may also benefit from a brow lift.

A brow lift can treat:

• Frown lines between the eyebrows
• Deep forehead wrinkles and creases
• Heavy or drooping eyebrows
• A permanently negative, tired or sad facial expression

The best candidates are non-smokers who are in good health and possess realistic expectations. Your surgeon will be able to determine if you are an ideal candidate for surgery during your consultation.

What to expect during your brow lift

A brow lift is typically completed in 1-2 hours under twilight anesthetic or IV sedation. A traditional or endoscopic approach may be used to rejuvenate your forehead.

During a traditional brow lift, a long coronal incision is made across the top of the head, along or just behind the hairline. The forehead skin is gently lifted so your surgeon can gain access to the underlying tissue.

An endoscopic brow lift uses several small incisions made within the hairline. An endoscopic device (a camera attached to a light) is threaded through these incisions so that your surgeon can obtain a clear view of the underlying tissue.

In both surgical approaches, the underlying tissue is reshaped and readjusted. The skin is tightly redraped across the forehead to smooth out deep forehead wrinkles. The underlying tissue may be sutured in place with internal sutures and then the incisions are closed with fine sutures.

After your surgery

Immediately after the surgery, a bandage may be applied, and a drain used to remove excess fluid buildup. Elevating your head and using cold compresses will minimize swelling. Bandages are removed in 1-3 days, and stitches in about a week. Final results will become gradually apparent as bruising and swelling resolve over the course of a few weeks.

Your specific recovery period will be discussed after surgery, but normal activities may often be resumed in 1-2 weeks, more strenuous activities in 3-6 weeks. Incision lines should continue to fade for 12-18 months.

Understanding the risks of a brow lift

As with any surgical procedure, there are some possible complications with a brow lift, including infection, bleeding, asymmetrical appearance, skin irregularities, atypical scarring and changes in sensitivity.

During your consultation, the risks of this procedure will be thoroughly discussed. Your medical history will be examined to determine if there are any additional risks. You will also be provided with specific instructions to minimize your risk of complication.

If you’re ready to take the next step

If you feel you may be a candidate for a brow lift, contact us to schedule a consultation in Kansas City. During your consultation, you will be given the opportunity to bring up any questions or concerns you may have, look through our before and after photos, and thoroughly discuss issues such as your personal goals, expected recovery, and payment options.