FACIAL SURGERY /
Brow Lift
Table of Contents
Brow Lift – What is it?
A surgical brow lift procedure is used to improve the appearance of the eyebrows and upper eyelids for a more youthful look.
Who is a good candidate for a brow lift?
- If your brows have begun to droop and are pushing down your upper eyelids, it can make you appear drowsy.
- The procedure is appropriate for individuals who do not suffer from eye problems.
The Brow Lift Consultation Process
During the consult, we will get to know one another and we will discuss:
- The reasons you are interested in getting a brow lift, what expectations you have, what results you are looking to achieve and what can be done realistically to improve your appearance. (By coordinating expectations, we can increase your satisfaction and alleviate any worries you may have regarding the procedure.)
- In certain instances, we may recommend combining the brow lift with an eyelid lift as well.
- Your health status and medical history, including any drug sensitivities you might have or what medication, if any, you take regularly and whether or not you smoke.
- An examination of your eyelids and brows.
- A complete explanation regarding the procedure, where the scars will be and the recovery process.
It is important that you have a thorough understanding of the process prior to the procedure. It is natural to feel anxious or excited prior to our consultation. Understanding the process will help reduce anxiety. You are welcome to ask any questions you may have and discuss any anxiety you may have during the consultation.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
- We ask that you have blood tests prior to the procedure.
- In the event that you are taking medication on a regular basis, we will discuss this and determine if it should be adjusted for the procedure.
- Avoid taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications such as Nurofen, vitamin E and Omega 3 for two weeks prior to the procedure as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Reduce cigarette smoking as much as possible prior to the procedure.
- A companion who can pick you up from the hospital after the procedure and who will stay with you for at least one night.
Steps in the Brow Lift Procedure
Step 1: Anesthesia
The procedure is performed either under local or general anesthesia, according to the physician’s recommendations.
Step 2: The incision
There are two types of incisions that may be used according to the approach recommended for you:
- Incisions at the side of the scalp: A tunnel under the skin is made from the side of the scalp to the brow and the brow is lifted using internal sutures.
- An incision is made at the top edge of the brow and excess skin is removed.
Step 3: Suturing of incisions
All incisions will be repaired using sutures that will be removed 7-10 days after the procedure.
Step 4: Results
The results are immediate however the final results will be apparent only once the swelling goes down.
What should I expect from the recovery process?
- A cold compress should be placed on the area where the procedure was performed in order to reduce swelling and an ointment will be put on the incision sites.
- Following the procedure, you will be transferred to recovery. You will be able to return home after a few hours of observation when you are sufficiently stable to leave. In the event that you wish to remain in the hospital for a day, we can arrange for that prior to the procedure.
- Before you leave, you will receive postoperative instructions as well as eye drops.
- You must sleep with your head elevated for the first two days after the procedure.
- Avoid athletic activities during the first 6 weeks after the procedure, with the exception of walking.
- You may take pain medication according to the postoperative instructions you receive. Most patients find they need pain medication for 6 days following the procedure.
- Update your physician regarding any changes in your health status.
- Postoperative follow-up visits will be scheduled for one week, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after the procedure.