Procedure
A forehead lift, also called a brow lift, is a procedure that removes excess tissue, modifies the muscles and tightens the forehead skin. It can be done with the traditional technique, with an incision at the top of the head just behind the hairline, or with an endoscope, which requires three to five short incisions but gives access to the relevant areas through a camera and a monitor that show the areas being dissected.
Length
One to two hours.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia, or intravenous sedation with local anesthesia, are the options.
Inpatient / Outpatient
This is usually an outpatient procedure.
Possible side effects
When an endoscope is used, the patient may have temporary swelling, numbness, headaches and bruising.
With the traditional method, itching and hair loss are possible.
Risks
Injury to the facial nerves causing loss of movement, muscle weakness or an asymmetrical look, persistent areas of numbness, and wide and sometimes excessive scars
Recovery
Patients usually return to work in seven to ten days, and even sooner after an endoscopic brow lift. More intense activities should be limited for a few weeks. Full recovery from the bruising takes two to three weeks. Limit sun exposure for a few months to avoid hyperpigmentation of the forehead, which can occur with sun exposure in the first three to six months after the procedure.
Results
The results of this procedure usually last five to ten years.
