For women beginning the fight against aging skin, one anti aging skin care surgery that is becoming increasingly popular is the brow lift. A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a type of plastic surgery that specifically targets aging skin and helps to create a more youthful appearance and improve one’s overall beauty. But what exactly does a brow lift surgery involve and what are the risks associated with this type of plastic surgery?
Brow Lift Surgery
A brow lift is a type of plastic surgery that decreases the appearance of drooping brows, horizontal lines, wrinkles and furrows, all of which are associated with aging skin.
There are three types of forehead lift surgeries:
- coronal: this is the oldest and most reliable type of brow lift surgery. During this procedure, an incision is made across the top of the head. In this manner, the surgeon can address the muscles that lead to the formation of wrinkles. The disadvantage of this type of brow lift is that the top of the head is numb for up to six months following surgery.
- endoscopic: during this brow lift surgery, the surgeon makes four to six one-inch incisions behind the patient’s hairline. The surgeon then inserts a small instrument known as an endoscope into the incision; at one end of the endoscope is a small camera that allows the surgeon to see inside. The advantage of this forehead lift surgery is that only minor incisions have to be made. However, endoscopic brow lift surgery is relatively new, with the first surgeries of its type being performed in 1995. Because of this, it is not known how long the results of this type of brow lift last.
- subcutaneous: the least common of brow lift surgeries, a subcutaneous involves an incision being made across the top of the head, where the hairline starts. In a subcutaneous brow lift surgery, the surgeon performs a similar operation to a coronal brow lift. The disadvantage of this type of plastic surgery is that it results in a visible scar across the top of the head.
In many cases, a brow lift is performed in conjunction with a cosmetic surgery facelift in order to maximize the appearance of more youthful looking skin.
The effects of a brow lift typically lasts for many years.
The Benefits of a Brow Lift
A brow lift is beneficial to individuals seeking a more youthful appearance. A forehead lift is usually performed when an individual is 40 to 60 years old. In addition, this type of plastic surgery is beneficial to individuals with deep furrows and frown lines due to stress and strenuous muscle activity.
The Risks of a Brow Lift
Like all types of cosmetic surgery, a brow lift surgery contains risks. The plastic surgery risks associated with a brow lift however are relatively rare and minor.
Some such risks and side effects of a brow lift include:
- a decreased ability to raise the eyebrows and/or wrinkle the forehead due to minor nerve damage
- the appearance of a broad scar
- hair loss
- infection, bleeding and/or loss of sensation in the area near where the incision(s) were made
Preparing for Brow Lift Surgery
The first step in preparation for a cosmetic brow lift is to choose and consult with a reputable plastic surgeon. Ask friends and family for a referral and be sure to ask about the surgeon’s qualifications. During your initial consultation, you will discuss your goals for the surgery, as well as your medical history. The surgeon will also evaluate your face to see whether the surgery is indeed appropriate, as well as provide you with an overview of the plastic surgery procedure.
Prior to the surgery, your surgeon will provide you with guidelines regarding what foods to eat, what medications and vitamins to take, as well as provide instructions with regard to smoking and the consumption of alcohol.
A brow lift surgery procedure takes from between 30 minutes and 90 minutes and requires the administration of a general aesthetic. This type of plastic surgery is an outpatient surgery (meaning you won’t have to stay overnight in the hospital).
Bandages are removed one to three days after a brow lift surgery is performed, while stitches are usually removed seven to days after surgery. Swelling and bruising diminishes in 10 to 14 days and can be alleviated through the constant elevation of the head, as well as through the application of ice to the swollen area.
After the surgery, you should limit excessive physical activity for several weeks, including jogging, heavy housework, bending or sex so as not to exacerbate your blood pressure. Patients should also avoid prolonged exposure to heat and sun for a period of several months following the surgery.
Patients can usually return to work within seven to ten days after the surgery.