FORE HEAD LIFT
FOREHEAD LIFT SURGERY
A forehead lift (or "browlift") is a procedure that improves the heavy and drooping appearance that can occur in the brows, forehead and upper eyelids. The passage of time affects the facial appearance and some sagging, droop or heaviness typically occurs in the brow region and upper eyelids. Some people have a relatively low brow position naturally, even at a young age. This may result in a tired, angry or sad appearance that does not reflect your inner self. In these cases, a forehead lift can produce a very positive change. This procedure involves lifting the forehead and brow to a more optimal position, which also tends to "open-up" the area around the eyes to reveal a more youthful and attractive appearance. Sometimes people will consult for upper eyelid blepharoplasty(upper lid lift) and actually will benefit more from a forehead lift. Other times, a blepharoplasty or even a full face lift is considered along with a forehead lift. A consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon can help you determine what is needed to achieve your goals.
THE FOREHEAD LIFT PROCEDURE
The original forehead lift technique is called the "open browlift". It involves making an incision across the top of the scalp, behind the hairline, from the top of one ear across to the other. If the hairline has receded, the incision can be placed along the actual hairline, which can, in effect, lower the hairline. The endoscopic brow lift has become the most commonly used technique. Rather than making a long scalp incision, the surgeon makes 3 to 5 much smaller incisions behind the hairline. A camera device and the endoscope is used to visualize the operative site. The forehead and brow regions are then freed-up as would be done with the open technique. The brow can then be lifted to an optimal position. It is secured in position typically with small, dissolvable devices called endotines, which are anchored to the bone and hold the forehead in place during the healing period. They gradually dissolve over 8-9 months, but the brow position is maintained, usually for many years. These surgeries are typically performed under a light, general anesthesia, or occasionally under local anesthesia with IV sedation.
