Browlift FAQs

Q-What is a browlift?
A-The browlift, also known as a forehead lift, is a plastic surgery procedure which can improve the early signs of aging in the forehead and brow area in order to restore a smoother, more youthful brow. The surgery tightens loose skin and removes excess skin, thus improving the appearance of frown lines, forehead wrinkles and a heavy brow.

Q-Is a browlift right for me?
A-If you are looking to improve the appearance of forehead wrinkling and a drooping brow and are physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, then a browlift may be right for you. You can get an idea of how a browlift might benefit you by placing you hands at the outer edges of your eyes above your brows and gently raising the skin upward. While the browlift may be performed at just about any age, most patients range in age from forty to sixty-five. Dr. Donath will be happy to meet with you for a consultation to help you decide if the browlift can best meet your needs.

Q-What happens at the consultation for a browlift?
A-During the consultation for a browlift, Dr. Donath will meet with you to examine your brow, discuss your goals, and take a thorough medical history. He will consider other factors like your age, skin type and your attitude toward surgery. The technique, type of anesthesia, surgical facility, risks and costs will all be discusses and your questions or concerns addressed. If necessary, Dr. Donath may recommend additional surgery, such as blepharoplasty or a facelift, to help you achieve your desired goal.

Q-What anesthesia is the browlift performed with?
A-The browlift may be performed with IV sedation, twilight anesthesia or general anesthesia.

Q-How is the surgery for the browlift performed?
A-Dr. Donath begins the browlift by making the incisions. For a traditional browlift, the incision runs across the top of the forehead just behind the hairline. For an endoscopic browlift, there are several small incisions made behind the hairline. Loose skin is tightened, excess skin is removed and, if necessary, a portion of the muscle responsible for frown lines may be removed.

Q-How long is the surgical time for a browlift?
A-The browlift may take about one to two hours to perform.

Q-Where are the browlift incisions made?
A-Incisions for the browlift are typically located behind the hairline. For a traditional browlift, one long incision is made across the top of the forehead. For an endoscopic browlift, several small incisions are made in the hairline.

Q-Will I have scars after the browlift surgery?
A-Because the browlift incisions are usually located behind the hairline, the resultant scarring is usually well concealed. The incisions made for the endoscopic browlift are smaller and result in less scarring than the traditional browlift.

Q-Does the browlift involve much pain?
A-Some discomfort can be expected after the browlift which can be managed with medication.

Q-What is the recovery from a browlift like?
A-Patients may experience some discomfort after the browlift which can be managed with prescription medication. Temporary itching and numbness may also occur around the incisions. Swelling and bruising can be expected during the first ten days after surgery. Applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help to alleviate the swelling. Bandages are usually removed within one to tree days, while the stitches are usually removed within seven to ten days. Any prolonged bruising can be concealed with make-up.

Q-When will I be able to resume work after my browlift surgery?
A-Work and most other normal activities can usually be resumed within one to two weeks after the browlift.

Q-When will the stitches be removed after my browlift procedure?
A-Stitches are typically removed within about seven to ten days after the browlift.