Browlift & Forehead Lift | Cosmetic Surgery Arlington & Gainesville VA

As a person ages, facial skin loosens and wrinkles, causing drooping eyebrows and also creases and lines that make a person appear tired and old. Exposure to sunlight, weight fluctuations and heredity are just among the common factors that cause skin to lose its elasticity. A Browlift (forehead lift) can address these problems; it is done by surgically altering the muscles that cause wrinkling or drooping in the area above the eyes. This procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of aging in people 40 60 years old. Frown lines that have developed as a result of stress or muscle activity can also be minimized. Inherited conditions such as a low, heavy brow or furrowed lines above the nose can also achieve a more alert and refreshed look with this procedure. Browlifts are usually done in combination with other procedures such as Botox and Microdermabrasion to effect a more complete facial rejuvenation. If you’re considering a Browlift (forehead lift), the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the procedure mentioned.

How is this procedure performed?

The most common method used is endoscopic brow-lift wherein the incision is hidden just behind the hairline. Before surgery, your hair will be parted to reveal the incision line; hair in front of the incision line may be trimmed. Small incisions are made behind the hairline in the temple and frontal areas. A space is dissected between the bone and deep tissues, then an endoscope in inserted to complete the release of the tissues just below the brow and lateral orbit. Small pins are placed in the bone to hold the heavy sutures which are used to elevate the deep tissues, resulting in elevation of the brows. The incisions are sutured and the head wrapped in elastic bandage. The wrap is removed the day after surgery.

Will I need to stay in a hospital?

This procedure takes 1 to 2 hours and can be done in the office surgical suite, depending on what you and the doctor prefer. You may be allowed to go home after the surgery.

What will happen in my first consultation?

On your first visit, your surgeon will discuss with you the changes that are to be made in your appearance. The procedure will be explained to you, risks and limitations as well as anesthesia to be used. It is important you give a thorough medical history. You may ask to be shown before and after photos of other patients who have undergone this procedure. Ask all the questions you have about this procedure.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Usually the type of anesthesia used is local with sedation. You may feel tugging but you won’t feel pain.

What is to be expected after surgery?

You must always keep your head elevated for 2 to 3 days after the surgery to reduce swelling. You will be able to shower and shampoo your hair within 2 days or as soon as the bandage is removed. You will be able to go back to work in 7 to 10 days, and do more strenuous activities in several weeks. You must for at least 2 to 3 weeks limit activities that may increase blood pressure such as jogging, bending and lifting heavy objects. Prolonged exposure to the sun should also be limited for several months.

Are there any risks?

As with any surgery, infection may set in; injury to the facial nerve causing loss of motion may occur. Muscle weakness or asymmetric look, broad or excessive scarring are also some of the risks.

Are there any side effects?

You may experience temporary swelling, numbness, headaches and bruising. Possible itching for several months and also a change in hairline may occur.

Am I an ideal candidate?

You are if you are in good physical health, with good skin elasticity and want to improve the appearance of furrows or frown lines on the forehead.

How long do results last?

Most people are pleased with the results of a browlift and have only one browlift performed in a lifetime. You must remember that a browlift will not stop the aging process but it will turn back the hands of time.