A browlift is a surgical procedure that can help improve the appearance of the eyebrows and forehead. It can correct drooping eyebrows, sagging skin on the forehead, and deep wrinkles in the area between the eyebrows and above the eyes. If you’re considering a brow lift surgery, it can be helpful to know what to expect. Here’s a guide to your brow lift surgery and how your board-certified plastic surgeon can help.
Step 1: Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia depends on the patient. In some cases, general anesthesia is used. However, some brow lifts can be performed using a local anesthetic and sedation. Your plastic surgeon will recommend the best anesthesia options for your procedure during your consultation.
Step 2: Incision
Once you’re ready, an incision is performed around the ears and hairline to gain access to the underlying tissues. The size of your incision will depend on your unique procedure - for options like the endoscopic brow lift, your incisions may be very small. Your plastic surgeon will take into consideration your hairline when choosing an incision type and location.
Step 3: Removal or Restructuring of Fat Pads
The next step involves the removal of some excess fat pads located behind your eyebrows. These fat pads may cause the sagging of the eyebrows and forehead skin. In other cases, they can be lifted to a more upright position.
Step 4: Removal of Extra Skin
Dr. Kovanda will lift and remove extra tissue from the forehead to create a smooth, flat surface. Removing and tightening this excess tissue will eliminate deep forehead wrinkles.
Step 5: Closing Incisions
Your plastic surgeon will close the incisions by stitching the cut areas. The stitches used are usually dissolvable sutures so you don’t have to worry about having them removed. Since incisions are usually placed within the natural hairline, they’ll be less noticeable. Your plastic surgeon will give you instructions on how best to avoid scarring.
Step 6: Bandaging
During the final step of the browlift procedure, the dressings are put in place. Some bandages may need to be changed during your postoperative visits after consultation with your plastic surgeon. You’ll be given detailed instructions on how to care for your dressings and when to return for a check-up.
Recovery
It’s important to keep yourself elevated and avoid any excessive activity during your initial recovery period. It’s important to wear sunscreen during this time since your skin will be photosensitive. Sun exposure can increase your risk of visible scarring.
You’ll be given prescription pain medications to help manage any discomfort after surgery, so take these according to instructions. You’ll experience most pain and swelling within the first few days of surgery, but this should subside after the first week. You can generally return to office-based work within one to two weeks.
Schedule a Consultation
The best way to learn more about your brow lift options is by meeting with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During a consultation, Dr. Kovanda can help you understand your options and create a customized surgical plan for your goals. To get started, contact our Minneapolis office by calling or filling out our online form.
