Forehead and Brow Lift (Browplasty)

A forehead lift will remove or reduce horizontal creases across the forehead, furrows between the eyebrows and sagging eyebrows. Due to the aging process, genetics, stress or muscle activity, facial muscles and tissues can loose elasticity causing wrinkles and furrowed lines. Forehead lifts are commonly performed on people in their 40s to 60s, however they are also done on younger individuals who have sagging, droopy eyebrows often resulting in a sad facial expression. Not infrequently, a brow lift is combined with Blepharoplasty (an eyelid tuck) or face lift to provide a harmonious rejuvenation. Dr. Heinrich will meet with you for a consulation and determine if you are a good candidate for a forehead lift. He will assess your health and medical history, discuss with you the forehead lift process in detail and answer all of your questions.

Description of the procedure

Based on variations in how men and women age and on new advances in medical technology, different methods are used to perform this procedure. A forehead lift typically takes between one to two hours to perform. It is most commonly performed under IV sedation or twilight anesthesia. The forehead lift surgery is done one of two ways. The conventional method is through an incision behind the hairline. The newer forehead lift technique is done using an endoscope and requires minimal incisions. If the conventional method is used, an incision is made at the hairline from the ears across the top of the forehead. The forehead skin is pulled back and any excess skin, muscle and tissue is removed. The incision is stitched closed and wrapped with sterile bandages.

Your recovery

You will experience a certain degree of bruising and swelling around the eyes and cheeks for seven to ten days. In order to minimize swelling, post-operative instructions will include elevating the head for two to three days after surgery. Dr. Heinrich will prescribe medication to relieve pain and discomfort. Cold compresses may further reduce swelling. As the incisions heal, you may experience some numbness as well as itching, both of which will diminish with time. Bandages will be removed one or two days after your forehead lift surgery. Sutures are usually removed within seven to 10 days following surgery.

For most patients, the recovery time will not exceed two weeks, but you may still be advised to avoid strenuous activities for longer periods. Any prolonged bruising can be camouflaged with standard make-up techniques. The results of a forehead lift are generally permanent.