What is a Browlift?
A Browlift is a surgical procedure designed for those with frown lines, wrinkles or drooping eyebrows.
What does the surgery entail?
Browlifts will require general anesthesia. Incisions are hidden behind the hair line. Skin and tissue may be excised or certain muscles may be altered in order to remove wrinkles and tighten the skin.
How many treatments are required?
A Browlift is done in a single session, although a follow-up appointment may be necessary if your stitches are not dissolvable.
Are Browlifts safe?
Like any surgical procedure, Browlifts carry some risks. These will be discussed by your health care provider. You can reduce the chances of these risks by following your doctor's instructions.
Are there any possible side effects?
Mild discomfort is common, as is numbness and itching. There may be swelling and bruising.
Will there be any downtime?
You can return home the same day, but you will not be ready to return to work for several days.
What can be expected post-surgery?
You will need to arrange transportation to take you home once you have recovered from the anesthesia. Discomfort and numbness are typical. The numbness fades into itching as the incision heals. You will need to rest for a few days.
How soon will results appear?
Your final appearance should be visible at two to four weeks.
How long does a Browlift take?
Generally, a Browlift takes two to four hours. Endoscopic Browlifts leave fewer scars but can take longer.
What conditions respond best to this treatment?
Any excess skin on the forehead can be reduced using a Browlift.
Who are candidates for a Browlift?
Older individuals fighting the signs of aging or younger individuals with a predisposition to brow furrows may consider a Browlift. Browlifts can be done even if you are bald or losing your hair.
Who should avoid getting a Browlift?
Those who have a history of excessive scarring, high blood pressure or circulatory disorders may not be good candidates.
How long do the results last?
A Browlift can minimize the appearance of aging for years.
What are the alternative treatments?
A facelift or eyelid tuck may be recommended if the brow is not your problem. Laser skin resurfacing and photorejuvenation can both be used to treat fine lines. Botox®, collagen and other injectables may be preferable for treating deep furrows.
Is additional treatment necessary?
Touch-ups can be performed if you are not satisfied with the results or if the effects have faded over time.
What are the limitations of Browlifts?
Browlifts do not reduce puffiness or drooping around the eyes.
Instructions prior to treatment:
The patient's individual surgeon will provide specific instructions prior to surgery. There will be guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking and medications to take and avoid. Patients should make arrangements for someone to drive them home after the surgery.
Instructions for after surgery:
Expect up to four days of prescription pain medication to control mild discomfort. Keep your head elevated when you sleep. Your bandages will be removed at one to three days after surgery. At as little as three days, you may feel able to return to work. At three to five days, you should be able to apply cosmetics. At seven days, you may resume contact lens use. Around this time, you will return to have any stitches or clips removed. You should have at most ten to fourteen days of swelling or bruising. Once it diminishes, you may resume exercise, although it is better not to exert yourself for several weeks if possible. Your final appearance should appear between two and four weeks. It is recommended that you minimize direct sun exposure and wear sunscreen during this time.
