Surgery » Endoscopic Browlift

What is an Endoscopic Brow lift?

An Endoscopic brow lift is another term for a forehead lift. A brow lift gently elevates the eyebrows and gives a more youthful appearance.

Who is a good candidate?

Someone concerned with any of the following characteristics:

• Sagging or low positioning of eyebrows, which has created a sad appearance
• Deep horizontal creases across the forehead
• Frown lines or furrows, between the eyebrows and sometimes across the top of the nose

Who is not a good candidate?

Someone concerned with the following characteristics:

• Puffy bags beneath the eyes
• Unrealistic expectations
• Fine lines across forehead (Botox is generally a better option)
• Hooded upper eyelids (these may or may not be suitable)

The procedure

A Brow lift is now most commonly done endoscopically, which means a number of small incisions are placed behind the hairline and the lift is done internally. Small illuminated telescopes about the size of a pencil are used during the procedure. The procedure takes approximately 1.5 hours. In some cases a larger external incision may be chosen but this will be discussed with you by Dr Oates during your consultation, prior to your surgery. During the procedure, the eyebrows are elevated and the lines across the forehead reduced. A Brow lift can be performed under general anaesthesia (fully asleep) or under twilight sedation. You do not have to go to hospital for this procedure.

How long will I need off work?

7-14 days off work

Recovery

After the procedure the forehead will be covered with a bandage and the stitches/staples within the hairline will be covered with an ointment. Most patients go home the day of the operation or the following day. A small drainage tube is left and needs to be removed the following day. Sutures/Staples are removed 6 - 10 days after the operation.

The head needs to be elevated with extra pillows in bed to reduce swelling. There is generally some bruising and swelling associated with a Brow lift. Bruising and swelling may also travel downwards to affect the eyelids. Pain is usually minimal and most patients are able to return to normal activities within two weeks after the procedure. However, any high impact exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks. If done at our government licenced Academy Day Hosptial (on site at Academy Facial Plastics) we use two internal dissolving clips to hold the brow up, which may be felt under the skin for up to one year. They do not produce visible lumps.

Occasionally it can take six months for the hair the grow back resulting in small 'bald spots'. The sensation nerves of the forehead are the main structures to be protected during the operation. Occasionally a patient may notice some numbness or pins and needles in the forehead. This usually settles.

Is there any discomfort?

Discomfort can be managed with Panadol or Panadeine Forte, no Nurofen or Asprin should be taken.

Please Note

Aspirin, Nurofen, Vitamin E and blood thinning medications tend to significantly increase bruising and should not be taken for two weeks prior to and one week after facial plastic surgery. Also stop vitamins and other supplements.