The brow lift can rejuvenate the upper face for a smoother, more youthful look. Many of our browlift patients come from all over Connecticut, including Hartford, New Haven, Norwalk, Greenwich, and Avon. Meet with our double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Paul Stanislaw, during a brow lift consultation to learn more.
A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the wrinkles across the forehead, on the bridge of the nose, and between the eyes. It does so by lifting the skin and underlying tissues of the brow, reducing drooping eyebrows and excess skin. Usually, a brow lift is performed in combination with surgery of the upper eyelids (eyelid surgery) and a facelift.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Brow Lift?
As we age, it’s not uncommon for wrinkles to appear on the forehead. These frown lines can make you look angry, or relaxed skin can cause drooping brows to hood your upper eyelids, making you look tired. If you’re suffering from these frown lines, relaxed skin around the eyes, or a low or sagging brow, a brow lift may be an excellent option.
Watch this video discussing whether or not a brow lift procedure is the right solution for your forehead wrinkles, sagging brows, and heavy upper eyelids.
What is the Brow Lift Procedure?
A brow lift is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia, depending on Dr. Stanislaw’s recommendation. There are three types of brow lift incisions:
An endoscopic lift uses an endoscopic brow lift incision, where an endoscope (or thin tube) is inserted through small incisions within your hairline. With endoscopic brow lifts, the forehead and eyebrows are restored to a more youthful position, decreasing the appearance of the furrows, creases, and vertical frown lines.
A coronal brow lift uses a pretrechial incision placed at or behind the hairline where the excess skin is excised and the eyebrow is lifted into a more youthful position. This procedure is usually reserved for women because of hairline considerations.
A mid-forehead brow lift where the incision is placed in the wrinkles of the forehead skin. By placing the incision in th
During your brow lift surgery, Dr. Stanislaw will perform one of the above techniques to remove excess tissue and smooth the skin. The result is a smoother forehead and a reduction in frown lines. Brow lift procedures can also reveal more of the upper eyelids by lifting sagging brows. Once complete, your incisions will be closed, and you can return home.
Recovery time from a brow lift varies from patient to patient, with most returning to normal activities in a week. Your stitches are removed 7 days following surgery, and most of the swelling and bruising usually has resolved by that time.
You will have restrictions on activity and heavy lifting, and our team will provide detailed instructions on caring for yourself after your brow lift– you will also be encouraged to keep your head elevated while sleeping. You can resume driving in one to three days, depending on the type of brow lift performed.
Check out our videos to learn more about brow lifts and deciding if a brow lift is right for you!
How Long Do My Results Last?
You will be able to see your forehead rejuvenation results for several years, but it depends on your genetics, how well you are aging, and how well you take care of your skin.
To maintain your youthful appearance, make sure to live a healthy lifestyle, use sun protection, and use topical retinoids, topical vitamin C, and topical vitamin E in your skin care regimen. Dr. Stanislaw will help you learn more about how to maintain your results using the best medical-grade products and cosmetic procedures.
Brow Lift FAQs
Does brow lift change eye shape?
A brow lift does not aim to change the shape of the eye. However, manipulating the brow may slightly change the appearance of the eye for some.
How long do brow lifts last?
The results of a brow lift can vary depending on individual factors such as skin elasticity, age, lifestyle, and the specific surgical technique used. On average, the effects of a brow lift can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Over time, the natural aging process and gravity will continue to affect the skin, which may lead to a gradual return of sagging. However, many patients find that their brows maintain a more youthful and rested appearance long after the procedure.
What can I expect after a brow lift?
After a brow lift, patients can expect a period of bruising and swelling, which typically lasts about 10 to 14 days. The initial recovery phase is characterized by some discomfort and tightness in the forehead area, but these symptoms usually improve within a week. It's common for patients to have temporary numbness or tingling sensations around the incision sites. Most individuals feel comfortable returning to work and resuming normal activities within 10 to 14 days post-surgery, although strenuous activities should be avoided for several more weeks. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure optimal results.
Does endoscopic brow lift raise hairline?
During an endoscopic brow lift, small incisions are made behind the hairline, and an endoscope provides a magnified view, allowing your surgeon to lift and reposition the brow tissue with precision. Typically, an endoscopic brow lift is designed to minimize any changes to the hairline, focusing on lifting the underlying muscles and tissues without dramatic effects on hair positioning.
What age should you get a brow lift?
The ideal age for a brow lift can vary significantly depending on individual factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and personal aesthetic goals. Generally, people consider a brow lift to address sagging skin, deep forehead wrinkles, or a permanently furrowed brow that can occur with age. This procedure is often sought after by individuals in their 40s to 60s when the signs of aging become more pronounced. However, younger individuals may also opt for a brow lift if they have low or heavy brows that impact their appearance. The best age for a brow lift is highly personal and should align with a patient's desired outcomes.
How much does a brow lift cost?
The cost of a brow lift can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of brow lift technique used. On average, the price for a brow lift ranges from $3,000 to $6,000.
When can I wash my hair after brow lift?
Typically, it is advisable to wait at least 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair following this procedure. This time frame allows the incision sites to begin healing and helps minimize the risk of infection or irritation. When you do wash your hair, use lukewarm water and a gentle touch to avoid putting any pressure on the forehead or brow area. Opt for a mild shampoo and refrain from using high-temperature water, as this can increase swelling and discomfort.
Does a brow lift get rid of forehead wrinkles?
A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, can reduce the appearance of forehead wrinkles and improve the overall look of the brow area. By tightening the skin and underlying tissues of the forehead, you can completely eliminate fine lines and deep creases while also decreasing frown lines, elevating sagging brows, and providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Does insurance pay for brow lift?
Whether insurance covers a brow lift largely depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the procedure. Typically, insurance companies do not cover cosmetic surgeries. However, if a brow lift is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases where sagging skin impairs vision, there might be a possibility for coverage. To determine if your insurance will pay for a brow lift, review your policy details and consult with your insurance provider.
Is eyebrow lift surgery painful?
While you won't feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure, patients typically report experiencing mild to moderate discomfort following surgery. Most patients experience soreness, swelling, and tightness in the forehead area, which is usually managed with prescribed pain medications. The discomfort generally diminishes within a few days to a week as the healing process progresses.
What is the difference between a brow lift and blepharoplasty?
A brow lift primarily targets the upper face region, focusing on raising the eyebrows and smoothing out horizontal forehead lines, which in turn helps reduce the appearance of frown lines. This procedure is often sought by individuals looking to achieve a youthful, refreshed appearance. On the other hand, blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, concentrates on the eyelids. It involves the removal of excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. This is particularly beneficial for those who have droopy eyelids or puffy bags under the eyes, which can contribute to a tired or older appearance.
One Reason To Consider A Browlift Or Forehead Lift
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