The endoscopic brow lift is a minimally invasive surgery that addresses the early signs of aging that emerge in the upper region of the face. As we age, horizontal lines and furrows (frown lines) form over the brows and the brow descends de-emphasizing and even shrinking the appearance of the eyes. These changes make a person appear aged, weary, worried, and even angry.
The endoscopic brow lift elevates the eyebrows relieving brow heaviness, reduces frown lines, and smoothes the forehead. The eyes appear more open and the complexion appears smoother resulting in a younger and more refreshed visage.
The endoscopic procedure has several advantages to its surgical counterparts: it only requires three to five small incisions (about one to two inches in length) instead of the traditional ear-to-ear incision, the hairline remains unaltered, and the procedure can be performed with or without elevation of the brows. The endoscopic procedure also offers faster recovery time and inconspicuous scarring. This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with a Facelift, Blepharoplasty, Mid-face lift or other desired procedures.
Before Surgery
- Do not color your hair for four weeks before or after surgery.
- Avoid taking any medicines containing aspirin or ibuprofen during the two weeks prior to surgery.
- Be certain you do not have a cold or sunburn the day of surgery.
- Eat a balanced nutrient-rich diet before and after surgery. A healthy diet will help speed recovery.
- Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery, unless instructed differently by our anesthesia provider.
- Do not wear make-up or contact lenses to surgery.
- Arrange to have someone take you home after surgery and stay with you that evening and, if possible, help you around the house for a few days while you recover.
The Procedure
An endoscopic brow lift typically takes one to two hours depending on the extent of the procedure. The procedure is performed in our state accredited surgery center on an outpatient basis. Patients are given general anesthesia during this procedure.
- Hair is cleaned with a medical soap and tied back where the incisions will be made.
- After the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon makes three to five short incisions (each about 1-2 inches in length) along the scalp. An endoscope (a tiny camera) is inserted into one of the incisions allowing the surgeon to view the muscles and tissue beneath the skin.
- Through another incision, the surgeon lifts the forehead skin and adjusts or removes the muscles to produce a smoother appearance. (Optional: eyebrows are lifted and secured into a higher position with sutures beneath the skin's surface or with mini tacits behind the hairline.) A small drainage tube may be inserted for one day.
- The scalp incisions are closed with stitches or clips and the area is cleaned. Incision sites are dressed with gauze and elastic bandages.
After Surgery
After the procedure, patients may experience some numbness, swelling and/or discomfort at the incision sight. This is normal and will pass with time. Incision site pain is usually minimal, but can be controlled with medication if necessary. Swelling is minimized with a light compressive wrap and drain, if one is placed.
By the next day patients should be up and about, although he/she should continue to take it easy. Also within the first twenty-four hours, bandages and drainage tubes are usually removed. Afterwards, you should be able to shower and shampoo your hair. Within one week, stitches or staples are removed.
Recovery
Most patients are back at work within five to ten days following surgery. Within three weeks most visible signs of surgery should be gone. Although patients are ready to return to work, they should plan to limit rigorous activity for several weeks. Prolonged heat and sun exposure should be limited for several months.
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Before and After Photos of Browlift
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