Questions Patients Have about Brow Lift Surgery

A brow lift or forehead lift is a plastic surgery procedure that can refresh the upper face. It does so by restoring contour to the brow line. In addition to achieving outstanding cosmetic results in the forehead and area above the eyes, a brow lift can also improve the functionality of the upper eyelids by reestablishing the natural position of the brow at the upper orbital rim.

At Ophthalmic Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, Inc. offices in St. Louis and St. Peters, we perform three common brow lift techniques. These include:

• Direct Brow Lift, with an incision at the brow line
• Endoscopic Brow Lift, with an incision behind the hairline
• Pretrichial (Temporal) Brow Lift, with a slightly longer incision at the hairline

Which brow lift is right for me?

We perform different brow lift techniques because every situation is unique and our method must match the anatomy and structure of the face. Fortunately, no patient is on their own to determine which brow lift technique is ideal for them. The surgeon develops a treatment recommendation by observing and measuring various factors, such as hairline characteristics, forehead height, and the current brow contour. 

Will I have a visible scar?

As much as possible, surgeons place incisions in hidden locations. As we see from our descriptions, the endoscopic and pretrichial brow lift techniques allow incision placement behind or right at the hairline, where resulting scars are hidden or barely visible. Over time, scars typically fade to near invisibility. In the direct brow lift, the incision is placed so close to the eyebrows that the resulting scar should also be nicely disguised. 

Are there alternatives to surgical brow lifts?

Many people try nonsurgical treatments before consulting with a surgeon about a surgical brow lift. The benefit of these alternatives is that they typically do not require downtime. The disadvantage is that nonsurgical treatments only achieve temporary results. Botox is the most well-known nonsurgical brow lift treatment. This, as well as other neuromodulators like Dysport and Xeomin, works by inhibiting muscle movement at the brow line. The mildly paralyzed muscle releases overlying tissue, which results in a subtly raised contour. To maintain results, treatment may be repeated every 3 to 4 months. Neuromodulators like Botox are also not without risks of adverse side effects. 

Refresh your appearance with a brow lift. Contact us here to schedule an appointment at an office near you.