FOREHEAD/BROW LIFT

A forehead lift or brow lift operation is less invasive than a full facelift and is often carried out using
an endoscope and a pencil thin camera attached to a TV screen. The operation is designed to lift
the skin of the forehead in order to tighten and smooth out wrinkles and give a more youthful
appearance. The surgery may also involve removing underlying muscle and tissue in order to
correct drooping eyebrows and minimise facial lines.

What does the operation involve?

A brow lift operation is carried out under general anaesthetic and will take between 1 to 2 hours. During
the surgery several incisions are made behind the hairline so that visible scarring is minimal.
An endoscope is then inserted through the incisions so that the muscle and tissue behind the
skin can be seen. Some of this muscle and tissue is then altered or removed and the incisions
are closed up with stitches.

What to expect post surgery?

Specialist post–op care:
> Polyfax antiseptic ointment to be applied to the scars in the scalp twice a day for about 2 weeks.
> Ice compress to the eyes for 2 days.
> Sleep with head slightly elevated on a few pillows for the first 2 weeks and avoid bending the head
   down.
> TED stockings to be worn for 2 weeks.
> Moisturise all scars for at least 3 months.

Please click here for more general post-operation care.

What are the risks?

Common side effects:
> Temporary pain, numbness, bruising and mild swelling around the eyes.
> Scarring usually fades but won’t completely disappear.

Uncommon but potential complications:
As with any operation problems may arise with an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic,
excessive bleeding, blood clots or infection. Complications can occur during or after the procedure.

Further risks specifically related to brow lift surgery include:
> Haematoma: if bleeding occurs under the skin, further surgery is sometimes required.
> Damage to facial nerves may cause numbness in the face.
> Hair loss around scars.