Brow Lift Surgery:

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift reduces the wrinkle lines that develop horizontally across the forehead, as well as those that occur on the bridge of the nose, between the eyes. A brow lift improves frown lines and raises sagging brows that are hooding the upper eyelids. Brow lift places the eyebrows in an alert and youthful position.

Other cosmetic procedures that may be performed with a brow lift include:

1. Upper and or lower eyelid tucks.
2. Facelift.
3. Skin resurfacing techniques.

Brow Lift Cost:

A physician’s fee will be based on his/her experience, the type of procedure used, and the geographic location.

Most health insurance does not cover brow lift surgery or its complications, but many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans.

Brow lift surgery costs may include:

1. Anesthesia fees.
2. Hospital or surgical facility costs.
3. Medical tests.
4. Post-surgery garments.
5. Prescriptions for medication.
6. Surgeon’s fee.

When choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area for a brow lift, remember that the surgeon’s experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery.

Brow Lift Preparation:

In preparing for brow lift surgery, you may be asked to:

1. Get lab testing or a medical evaluation.
2. Take certain medications or adjust your current medications.
3. Stop smoking.
4. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other supplements as they can increase bleeding.

Brow lift surgery should be performed in an accredited surgical facility, licensed ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital.

You will need to arrange for another adult to drive you to and from surgery, and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

Brow Lift Procedural Steps:

1. Step 1 – Anesthesia

You will be given medication so that you will be comfortable during the surgical procedures. Your surgeon will suggest either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.

2. Step 2 – The Incision

Brow lifts can be performed in different ways. Some surgeons prefer using an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera on the end) and special instruments 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.

3. Step 3 – Closing the incisions

Brow lift incision are usually closed with removable/absorbable sutures, skin adhesives, surgical tape, or special clips.

4. Step 4 – Results

Results appear gradually as swelling and bruising subside to reveal smoother forehead skin and a more youthful, rested appearance. Get more information about brow lift results.

Brow lift recovery

During your brow lift recovery, your forehead may be taped and your head may be loosely wrapped to minimize swelling and bruising after the procedure is completed.

A thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

1. How to care for the surgical site and drains.
2. Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection.
3. Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health.
4. When to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

You should keep your head elevated and perform no vigorous physical activity for as long as your surgeon recommends. Do not use ice or heat on the operated area.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.

1. What medication will I need after surgery?
2. Will I have dressings/bandages?
3. When will they be removed?
4. Are stitches removed? When?
5. When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
6. When do I return for follow-up care?

Brow Lift Risks and Safety Information:

Brow lift surgery risks include:

1. Anesthesia risks.
2. Bleeding.
3. Loss of hair around the incisions.
4. Elevated hairline.
5. Eye irritation or dryness.
6. Facial asymmetry.
7. Facial nerve injury with weakness or paralysis.
8. Fluid accumulation.
9. Infection.
10. Numbness or other changes in skin sensation or intense itching.
11. Pain, which may persist.
12. Poor wound healing.
13. Possibility of revision surgery.
14. Skin discoloration and swelling.
15. Skin loss.
16. Unfavorable scarring.
17. Rare risk of blood clots.

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It’s important that you address all your questions directly with your plastic surgeon.