Forehead Lift
Brow Lift
What is a Forehead Lift (Brow Lift)?
A Forehead Lift, otherwise known as a Brow lift, is a surgical procedure done to minimize drooping eyebrows, hooding over the eyes, and a furrowed or deeply wrinkled forehead. This operation corrects the sagging or low position of the eyebrows by removing excess skin, altering muscles that create wrinkles, and tightening of the forehead skin which can be achieved through a standard (coronal) or endoscopic procedures both of which hide the incisions in the hair-bearing scalp. This procedure is often done at the time of eyelid surgery or facelift surgery.
Who is a good candidate?
You may be an excellent candidate for a forehead lift if you're concerned with expression lines or a heavy appearance in your forehead and brow region. This procedure is designed to holistically rejuvenate the brow region by:
-
Smoothing the deep horizontal creases across the forehead.
-
Softening the vertical "frown lines" that develop between the eyebrows.
-
Lifting a low or sagging brow to a more youthful and alert position, which also reduces the "hooding" effect over the upper eyelids.
How is the procedure performed?
A forehead lift is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or monitored sedation. The incisions are usually made behind the hairline. For patients with high foreheads, the incisions can be placed in front of the hairline. The operation is done by lifting and repositioning the forehead skin, during which time the muscles that cause frown lines are weakened.
​
The nerve supply to the forehead and frontal scalp is routinely stretched in such procedures. For that reason, numbness and odd sensations are common in the forehead and scalp for the first few months. Bruising almost never afflicts the forehead, but bruised eyelids are normal in such procedures.
What does recovery look like?
-
Immediate Recovery: Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common for the first week. These symptoms typically improve within 10–14 days.
-
Returning to Activities: Most people can return to work and normal activities within 7–10 days, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.
-
Care Instructions: Keeping your head elevated, following wound care instructions, and minimizing facial movements help promote healing.
-
Final Results: While initial improvements are visible within weeks, full results develop over several months as swelling subsides and incisions heal.
Frequently asked questions
Does insurance cover my rhytidectomy (facelift) surgery?
Insurance carriers typically do not cover surgeries like forehead lifts which are cosmetic. Be sure to ask your surgeon about the total costs of the procedure, including anesthesia, medical tests, follow-up care, prescriptions, etc. We do offer CareCredit financing. Please inquire with our business office if you have questions regarding this option
Will the results of forehead surgery last?
When performed by an experienced, board-certified cosmetic surgeon, a brow lift provides results that will last for many years. While nothing can stop the natural aging process, you can play a key role in maintaining your refreshed appearance. The best way to protect your investment is to lead a healthy lifestyle: wear sunscreen daily, eat a nutritious diet, and avoid smoking. These habits will help ensure your skin looks its best for years to come.
Are there any risks or complications?
Possible risks include scarring, changes in skin sensation (temporary or permanent), elevated hairline, hair loss at the incision sites. Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like the ones at MMK helps minimize the risks.
Will there be visible scars?
Incisions are typically hidden within the hairline, making scars discreet and difficult to detect after healing.