Browlift

A browlift, or forehead lift, is a procedure that restores a more youthful, refreshed look to the area above the eyes. The procedure corrects dropping brows and improves the horizontal lines and furrows in the forehead. A browlift is most commonly performed in the 40-60 age range to minimize the visible effects of aging. However, it can also help people of any age who have developed furrows or frown lines due to stress or muscle activity. The browlift is often performed in conjunction with another procedure, such as eyelid surgery or a facelift, but can also be performed alone. For a better understanding of how a forehead lift might change your appearance, look into a mirror and place the palms of your hand at the outer edges of your eyes, above your eyebrows. Gently draw the skin up to raise the brow and the forehead area. That is approximately what a browlift would do for you.

Consultation

During your consultation Dr. Pledger will discuss your goals for the surgery. He will then evaluate your face, including the skin and underlying bone. He will then determine if you will benefit from this procedure. This risks and complications of the procedure will also be discussed at this time.

Surgery

Forehead lift is performed in a surgical facility on an out-patient basis. It is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Pledger uses the endoscopic procedure for the forehead lift. Before the operation begins, your hair will be tied back behind the hairline where the incision will be made. Dr. Pledger will make small incisions as needed to use the endoscope. The endoscope, which is a pencil-like camera device connected to a television monitor, is inserted through one of the incisions, allowing Dr. Pledger to have a clear view of the muscles and underlying tissues beneath the skin. Using another instrument inserted through a different incision, the forehead skin is lifted and the muscles and underlying tissues are removed or altered to produce a smoother appearance. The eyebrows may also be lifted and secured into their higher position by sutures beneath the skin’s surface. When the lift is complete, the scalp incisions will be closed with staples and the area will be washed. Gauze will be wrapped around the head. You will then be sent to the recovery room.

Postoperative Recovery

You will be given pain medication to help with the pain. As with the other facial procedures, it is important to sleep with your head elevated for the first few weeks following surgery. You may experience some numbness, incision discomfort, and mild swelling. Once the bandage is removed you may wash your hair. The staples will be removed after one week. You should be up and about in a day or two, but will need to take it easy for at least the first week after surgery. Most of the visible signs of surgery concealed with makeup. You will be given a detailed list of post-operative instructions prior to surgery.