Who is a good candidate for a brow lift?

You may be a candidate for brow lift surgery if you:

• Are physically healthy
• Nonsmoker
• Have a positive outlook and realistic goals

As we age, unsightly wrinkle lines may appear on the forehead. Frown lines between the brows can make us look angry or “too serious.” Skin relaxation may cause the eyebrows to drop, hooding our upper eyelids and making us look tired. If you are bothered by these signs of aging in the brow region, a brow lift may be right for you.

How should I prepare for brow lift surgery?

In preparing for brow lift surgery, you may be asked to:

• Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
• Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
• Stop smoking
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and other supplements as they can increase bleeding and bruising

Brow lift surgery should be performed in an accredited surgical facility, a licensed ambulatory surgical center or a hospital.

You will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery, and to stay with you the first night following surgery to assure your safety.

What are the steps of a brow lift procedure?

Step 1 – Anesthesia

You will be given anesthesia so that you will be comfortable during the surgical procedures. Your surgeon will suggest either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.

Step 2 – The incision

Brow lifts can be performed in different ways. Some surgeons prefer using an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera on the end) and special instruments placed through small incisions made within the hairline. This allows the tissue and muscle beneath the skin to be adjusted, correcting the source of visible creases and furrows in the forehead.

Endoscopic incision

Some surgeons prefer to perform a browlift through what is called a “coronal incision” The coronal incision is created from ear to ear across the top of the head within the hair-bearing skin.

The forehead skin is then lifted and any muscle adjustment can be made under direct visualization. The resulting scar from a coronal brow lift is well concealed within the hair.

Coronal incision

For women with very high foreheads, an incision just at the anterior hairline may be recommended. In this way the brow can be lifted without altering the height of the front hairline. The resulting scar, while somewhat more visible, can often be hidden with bangs.

Step 3 – Closing the incisions

Brow lift incisions typically are closed with:

• Removable or absorbable sutures
• Skin adhesives
• Special clips

Step 4 – See the results

Results appear within a few weeks as swelling and bruising subside to reveal smoother forehead skin and a more youthful, rested appearance.

What should I expect during my brow lift recovery?

During your brow lift recovery, your forehead may be taped and/or your head may be loosely wrapped to minimize swelling and bruising after the procedure is completed.

A thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for the surgical site and drains
• Medications to apply or take orally
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
• When to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

You should keep your head elevated and perform no vigorous physical activity for as long as your surgeon recommends. Do not use ice or heat on the operated area.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what to expect during your recovery period.

• What medication will I need after surgery?
• Will I have dressings/bandages?
• When will they be removed?
• Are stitches removed? When?
• When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
• When do I return for follow-up care?

Brow lift surgery recovery time

Initial wound healing may take 10 to 14 days. Sutures or clips will be removed when it is appropriate. You should be ready to return to work and normal activity after 10-14 days.

Cosmetics can help camouflage any bruising.

Even though you will look presentable to the public, you will find that the healing will continue for several weeks, as the swelling dissipates and incision lines refine and fade. It may take several months for your complete recovery.

Following your physician’s instructions is essential to the success of your surgery.

It’s important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.

How Much Can I Save on Brow Lift Surgery Abroad?

Most people save at least 60% when booking with Medical Departures; depending on where you travel, savings could be as high as 80% to have your brow lift surgery abroad.

In the United States an eyebrow lift costs around $7,000, compared to:

• Eyebrow lift surgery in the Philippines: approximate price of $1,100
• Eyebrow lift surgery in Thailand: approximate price of $1,500
• Eyebrow lift surgery in Mexico: approximate price of $2,200