Cosmetic Procedures

Browlift

The face is perhaps the most effective tool with which we communicate. With one glace, we can provide more insight into our feelings than a million words ever could. However, as lines, sagging and creases develop over the years, our expressions may mistakenly impart a sense of fatigue, sadness or anger we may not necessarily feel.

Many people in this situation opt for a browlift to soften the effects of aging on the forehead and eyebrows. In the past, a large scar was an inevitable result of the surgery. However, newer methods utilizing the endoscope now allow the plastic surgeon to provide identical effects with much smaller incisions and a quicker recovery time.

Who Needs It

The best candidate for a browlift is someone with furrows and sagging or wrinkles on the forehead or around the eyebrows. For optimal results, a candidate should have some skin elasticity. Generally, the surgery is most effective for those over the age of 35 whose upper eyelids have begun to sag and/or whose lower lids have become puffy. Talk to your doctor if you wish to have lower or upper eyelid surgery or both.

Preparation

When considering a browlift, the first thing to do is consult with a plastic surgeon. He or she will be able to answer all of your questions and address your concerns regarding the surgery. They can also provide you with a realistic idea of the results based on the condition of your skin and bone structure. You may want to grow out short hair to conceal the scars as they heal.

The Surgery

Usually performed with an endoscope, a browlift only requires small incisions in the hairline that will be very inconspicuous. With the endoscope, muscles and skin are tightened, lifting the eyebrows up and enhancing a youthful appearance.

An endoscope is a small tube with a camera at the end and is about the size of an eraser on top of a pencil. The camera acts as the “eyes” of the physician as images are transmitted to a monitor. The doctor uses the monitor to guide movements during the surgery preventing the need for larger, open incisions. Not only does this mean less scarring for the patient, but recovery time is much faster as well. Usually a forehead lift done endoscopically requires a recovery time of less than a week, although certain activities should be avoided for several weeks until full recovery has been achieved.

Results

After a browlift, the entire countenance of the face will appear more refreshed and lively. The results can last for 5 to 10 years, and any scarring is usually covered by the hairline and softens over time, leaving the patient with natural-looking results.