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A forehead lift or "browlift" is a surgical procedure that can smooth the forehead, raise the upper eyelids, and minimize the frown lines that come with aging. The forehead lift is also considered to be one of the longest lasting cosmetic procedures. It may last as long as 10 years or longer. The results can give you a more youthful, animated appearance.

The Surgery

During a forehead lift, the muscles and tissues that cause the furrowing or drooping are removed or altered to smooth the forehead, raise the eyebrows and minimize frown lines. The incision is usually hidden just above the hairline; or your surgeon may choose to use an endoscope, a viewing instrument that allows the surgery to be done with minimal incisions. A forehead lift can be done alone, or in conjunction with other procedures, such as nose surgery, eyelid surgery, or a facelift. A forehead lift is usually done on an outpatient basis, in a surgeon's office, an outpatient surgery center, or a hospital. Most forehead lifts are done under local anesthesia, and usually combined with a sedative. General anesthesia sometimes is used.

The Recovery

The recovery experience for a classic forehead lift may differ significantly from an endoscopic recovery and this should be discussed with your surgeon. In both cases, you should keep your head elevated for 2 to 3 days after surgery to reduce swelling. Although you should be up and about in a day or two, plan on taking it easy for at least the first week after surgery. You should be able to shower and shampoo your hair within two days, or as soon as the bandage is removed. You will likely be able to return to work within 7 to 10 days, sooner with an endoscopic forehead lift.

The Best Candidate for a Forehead Lift

The best candidates for a forehead lift are men and women with good facial skin elasticity, in good health, psychologically stable with realistic expectations. A forehead lift is most commonly performed in the 40-60 age range to minimize the visible effects of aging. Patients who are bald, who have a receding hairline, or who have had upper-eyelid surgery may still be good candidates for a forehead lift.

The Risks

Some of the possible complications from this operation include: The possibility of permanent scarring, infection, bleeding, discoloration and swelling of the forehead, abnormal contour. In rare cases, the nerves that control eyebrow movement may be injured resulting in the inability to raise the eyebrows or wrinkle the forehead. Additional surgery may be required to correct the problem. In some patients, hair loss is possible along the scar. Loss of feeling may occur along the scar line as well, this is usually temporary, but may be permanent.

Background

A forehead lift, also called a brow lift, corrects the sagging or low position of the eyebrows that can cause a tired or sad look. The procedure softens horizontal creases across the forehead. It is often performed to treat conditions associated with aging, and is also appropriate for treatment of certain inherited traits.

Technique

The surgical technique recommended will depend on the position of the eyebrows, the amount of excess upper eyelid skin, and the height of the hairline. In many instances, an incision is made across the top of the scalp, beginning above the ears and hidden within the hair. Sometimes the incision may be placed at the front of the hairline or, in some cases, toward the middle of the scalp. Through the forehead lift incision, the plastic surgeon can modify or remove parts of the muscles that cause wrinkling and frown lines, remove excess skin, and lift the eyebrows. Another forehead lift technique uses an endoscope, a long, thin tube with a light on the end, attached to a video camera. The endoscope is inserted through several tiny incisions in the scalp and allows the plastic surgeon to see and work on the various internal structures of the forehead. The endoscopic technique requires minimal incisions, but in some instances, alternate methods may be preferable, or a combination of endoscopic and other techniques may be used.

Benefits

• Although the aging process continues, patient satisfaction remains high.
• Incisions are designed to be inconspicuous when healed.
• Usually performed on an outpatient basis.
• Patient can typically resume most normal activities within 10 days.

Other Considerations

• If there is significant skin overhang in the upper eyelids, or puffy bags beneath the eyes, eyelid surgery may be recommended in addition to a forehead lift.
• Temporary puffiness and discoloration may involve the eyelid and cheek areas.
• Temporary numbness and possibly some itching of the scalp can be expected.
• Recovery time varies greatly.
• Every surgery carries some risk. Potential complications could include reaction to anesthesia, hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that might require removal), and infection.
• Patient should temporarily avoid exposure to direct sunlight and, for the long term, be conscientious about use of a sun block.