Frequently Asked Questions

Brow Lift and Forehead Lift

Q.  What is a brow lift?
A.    A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a surgical procedure able to minimize the appearance of forehead ageing, drooping eyebrows and hooding over the eyes in order to provide a more youthful, refreshed appearance to the area above the eyes. Brow lifts are performed using an endoscopic approach.

Q.  How do I know if I'm a good candidate for a brow lift?A.  Good candidates include men and women who are physically healthy, have realistic expectations, and would like to improve the appearance of the forehead area. Most patients tend to be in their forties to their sixties.

Q.  What can I expect during a consultation for a brow lift?
A.   During a consultation for a brow lift, the surgeon will take a thorough medical history and discuss your goals. All aspects of the surgery should be explained in detail, including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the risks and the costs. Computerized photo imaging may be preformed.

Q.  Where is the brow lift procedure performed?
A.   Brow lift surgery may be performed in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital.

Q.  What type of anesthesia is used for a brow lift?
A.   Brow lifts are often performed with local anesthesia and sedation or with general anesthesia.

Q.  How is the actual brow lift procedure performed?
A.   An endoscopic brow lift involves a few small incisions that are placed within the hairline. Once the incisions are made the underlying tissues and muscles are altered and the incisions are closed.

Q.   How long does a brow lift take to perform?
A.   Brow lifts typically take one to two hours to perform.

Q.   Where are the incisions made for a brow lift?
A.  Several small incisions are made within the hairline.

Q.   Are there scars after a brow lift?
A.  The incisions made for a brow lift will result in scars, though they tend to be fairly well-concealed within the hairline. In addition, the incisions for the endoscopic approach are small

Q.   Is the brow lift a painful procedure?
A.  Patients may experience some discomfort or a headache right after surgery but this can be controlled with prescription pain medication.

Q.   Will I be able to drive myself home after my brow lift?
A.   Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after their brow lift procedure.

Q.   Will I need to have someone at home to help me out after my brow lift?
A.   It's often a good idea for patients to arrange for someone to stay with them during the first day or two after their brow lift procedure.

Q.  What is the recovery like after a brow lift?
A.   After a brow lift, patients may experience some discomfort or a headache which can be controlled with pain medication. Numbness and itching can also occur. Bandages are typically removed within a day or two after the procedure, and stitches are removed within one week. During the first few days, it's best to keep the head elevated to minimize swelling. Swelling and bruising may take seven to ten days to fade. The endoscopic approach tends to involve a less involved recovery than the traditional approach as it involves less pain, swelling and bruising.

Q.   When will I be able to go back to work after my brow lift?
A.  Patients are typically able to return to work within seven to ten days.

Q.  When can I exercise after my brow lift?
A.  Exercise and strenuous activities can typically be resumed within several weeks, though sun exposure will need to be limited for several months.

Q.  When will the stitches be removed after my brow lift?
A.  Stitches are typically removed within one week for endoscopic procedures.

Q.   What are the risks or complications that can occur with a brow lift?
A.  The potential risks associated with a brow lift include adverse anesthesia reactions, asymmetry, bleeding, excessive or broad scarring, infection, nerve injury, and the need for additional surgery.

Q.   Does insurance cover the cost of a brow lift?
A.   Insurance typically does not cover procedures that are performed solely for cosmetic purposes.