Brow lifts (or forehead lifts) are a surgical option to help correct many signs of aging in the upper face. This procedure can help create a smoother, more youthful forehead appearance. It is commonly paired with other procedures that can enhance forehead lift results, like eye surgery and facelifts.
Why get a brow or forehead lift?
Generally, the telltale signs of aging come from a gradual descent of the eyebrows and the appearance of deep, permanent forehead lines.
This can create a hooded appearance of the eyelids and deep forehead grooves, which add to a tired or angry appearance. A brow lift can effectively tighten the tissue and restore it to its youthful, smooth appearance.
What happens during a brow or forehead lift?
Brow lifts are typically performed with different types of incision techniques based on your anatomy. Any incisions are carefully hidden along or within the hairline.
Brow lifts are performed in the operating room, under anesthesia, as outpatient procedures. The brows are surgically elevated on the forehead to an appropriate and aesthetic position through an incision either along or within the hairline. The eyebrows are then anchored in place to prevent any recurrent drooping. The incisions are then meticulously repaired and drains are added to collect excess fluid.
Brow and Forehead Lift Results and Recovery
Since a brow or forehead lift is a surgical procedure, you will need to account for some downtime after your procedure. Plan on about two weeks of recovery, depending on how extensive the procedure is. Although it might take two to three weeks for your brow lift to heal initially, the best results of your procedure will become more evident during the following months.
Some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort can be expected, but this is can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Keep in mind that while brow lifts are a great way to remove a decade or two from your face, they do not stop the process of aging. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, good skincare regimen, and effective sun protection to get the best results.
Who makes a good brow or forehead lift candidate?
You may be a good brow or forehead lift candidate if you have the following traits:
- You are in reasonably good health
- You have realistic expectations for the outcome of your surgery
- You have sagging or low eyebrows, which create a sad or tired appearance
- You have deep horizontal creases across your forehead
- You have frown lines or a furrow between your eyebrows