(Forehead Lift)

The brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a surgical procedure which elevates low or drooping brows to a higher position, and acts to reshape the curvature of the brow in a more aesthetically pleasing way. The procedure effectively minimizes forehead creases, drooping eyebrows, hooding over the eyes, frown lines and furrowed forehead lines to rejuvenate a heavy, tired or frowning appearance while also enhancing the eyes. The result is a more youthful and refreshed brow and eye appearance. The brow lift is often combined with eyelid surgery, midface lift or lower face lift for additional facial rejuvenation.

The brow lift is an ideal procedure for individuals with low positioned brows or flattened brows which lack an arch. Most patients range in age from forty to sixty, though the procedure can be performed at younger and older ages if necessary. As with all types of surgery, good health and realistic expectations for improvement are important.

Dr. O’Mara performs the brow lift procedure at an outpatient surgery center using either IV sedation or general anesthesia. Surgical times will vary but generally average one to one and one-half hours in length. Dr. O’Mara most often uses an endoscopic approach in which several small incisions are made behind the hairline. For a traditional coronal brow lift, a longer incision is made across the top of the head. Working through the incisions, the doctor will release the soft tissue attachments at the brow and re-suspend the brows to the desired new height. This effectively elevates the brow while also creating an aesthetically pleasing arch.

The recovery after the brow lift takes approximately one to two weeks. During this time, patients may experience some bruising, swelling and minor discomfort. Swelling should subside within about one to two weeks. Any bandages applied after surgery are typically removed the next day. Most non-physical work can be resumed within one to two weeks after the brow lift while physical work and more strenuous activities can be resumed after three weeks.