As you age, the eyebrows begin to descend and wrinkles occur in the forehead. The position of the brows in the older patient frequently portrays a tired or angry look. The frown lines between the eyebrows also become deeper with age and can contribute to this appearance. The goal of the forehead lift is to provide a fresher, rested appearance and improve the frown lines. There are various locations that the incisions can be placed in order to perform a forehead lift. This will be discussed during your consultation. A new procedure known as the endoscopic forehead lift has recently been introduced. This procedure allows for elevation of the brows and rejuvenation of the forehead through small incisions. Whether this procedure will be of benefit to you will be discussed during the consultation. The procedure is often performed with eyelid surgery.
What can I expect immediately after the surgery?
The forehead will have some swelling which may actually cause the eyelids, particularly the upper eyelids, to swell. This is usually gone after a few days. The swelling will cause tightness as well as difficulty raising the eyebrows but this will diminish with the swelling.
When will I be presentable in public?
Most patients can usually be seen in public in one to two weeks. This may require some makeup to cover some residual bruising. Also, small surgical clips will be removed after one week. It is important to remember that 80% of the swelling is usually gone after two weeks.
Will I lose any hair?
None of the hair is shaved when preparing to do a forehead lift. Any hair that is removed is usually removed with the excess skin.
Will I have any numbness?
This depends on the particular incision and approach used. Usually numbness resolves in several weeks to several months after the procedure. Occasionally numbness may last longer.
What are the risks?
There are risks associated with any surgical procedure, however, the risks of facial surgery are minimal. Bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve weakness and asymmetries are rare. These will be discussed during your consultation as well as ways that they can be avoided.
