Brow Lift (Forehead Lift)

Sometimes the brows sag so much that they need to be lifted. In the past the brow lift required a veryl long incision along the hair line. 

Most surgeons quit performing brow lifts because of complications with the large coronal incisions. They returned to the procedure in the 1990s, using endoscopic techniques. That took care of hair loss, sensation changes, and scars, but there was still a problem with unreliable fixation with results lasting for less than a year or two in most cases. 

A new device called Endotine Forehead was developed in 2003 in California, does work and offers a high level of patient satisfaction. 

Five upward-facing tines capture tissue and spread pressure over a broad area, facilitating sturdy fixation and reattachment. Though initially palpable, the polymer device dissolves within months of insertion. The FDA has approved the Endotine Forehead for use in brow lifts. The surgeon makes two incisions of 15 mm each. Using the Endotine involves drilling tiny holes in the outer cranium and draping the skin flap.

To date, nearly 1,000 surgeons have implanted the device in 10,000 patients. Botox^® can be used instead of surgery for a temporary lift.

Will I look “frozen”?
After a brow lift the brow is not “frozen”, it can continue to express emotions (unlike with Botulinium muscle relaxing injections). By the same token, a brow lift will not eliminate all creases and lines. You should discuss your goals beforehand with your surgeon.

 
Will I look startled?
A startled look can result if the inner part of the brow is raised too much. 

  
What are the risks?
Overall, this is a safe procedure with few complications. However, like all cosmetic procedures there are risks involved. Problems include injury to facial nerves (causing loss of motion, muscle weakness or persistent areas of numbness) and an asymmetrical look. As with all surgeries problems may arise related to anesthesia, excessive bruising, infection or scarring.