Forehead Lift (Brow lift)

Introduction

A forehead lift, also referred to as a brow lift, is performed to lift the skin and muscles of the forehead and reposition the eyebrows, which have become low and droopy, at a higher level. This low position of the brows, affecting mainly the outer portion of the eyes, confers a sad look and tired appearance. In addition, the drooping of the brow over the eyelid causes a folding of the eyelid skin, worsening the dull, wrinkled appearance.

A brow lift elevates the eyebrows to a more esthetic position, which also relieves the heaviness of the skin at the outer portion of the eyelids, near the temple, and smoothens the wrinkles in that area. This more refreshed appearance frequently translates into bringing the eyes alive. In addition the muscles of expression around the brow, which cause frown lines, can also be weakened during brow lift surgery to diminish those lines.

Who is a candidate?

Generally, the position of the eyebrows in a man is along the upper edge of the bony socket of the eye. For a woman, the desirable position of the eyebrows is slightly above this bone. The laxity and drooping described above are most commonly a result of aging changes. However, in certain people, a low position of the brows with heavy upper eyelids occurs at a young age, due to genetic or hereditary factors. A forehead lift provides excellent results for these patients as well. There is no minimum or maximum age limit.

Recovery – pain, swelling, bruising, and activity

Brow lifts can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The recovery is usually painless with minimal swelling though there is usually some mild bruising around the eyes, which largely disappears within 7-10 days. Patients recover a normal appearance within this period and are comfortable returning to work and social activities. Exercise and strenuous physical activity are the only restrictions for about 1-2 weeks. The forehead tissues continue to settle and the final result is evident by 3-4 months.