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Do you know that our eyebrows can also show the signs of ageing? With age, our eyebrows droop down; this creates a tired appearance and forehead wrinkles. For those who want to look young, and brighten their eyes, an eyebrow lift is the best solution.
Overview
An eyebrow lift is a surgical procedure done to reposition the sagging eyebrows and to reduce the frown lines as well as wrinkles. Sometimes this procedure is combined with blepharoplasties (a cosmetic procedure done to correct the disfigurations of the eyelids), facelift, and skin resurfacing techniques to give a more youthful look.
ELIGIBILITY
Anyone who is healthy and wants a smoother and youthful facial appearance can undergo an eyebrow lift. People with the age of 40 to 60 years who have visible signs of ageing are considered as good candidates for an eyebrow lift.
An eyebrow lift is the right option for:
- People without pre-existing medical conditions
- Individuals who are physically active
- Non-smokers
- People with horizontal wrinkles on the forehead
- People who have developed frown lines or furrows due to stress or muscle activity
- Individuals with inherited conditions, such as furrowed lines above the nose, or a low or heavy brow.
PREPARATION BEFORE PROCEDURE
Initially, the plastic surgeon will review your medical and medication history. A physical examination of the face will be done to assess the skin and different parts of the face with the eyes opened and closed. The doctor will also take some photographs of your face from different angles and keep them in your medical record for future comparisons.
Follow these instructions to improve the outcomes and to reduce the risk of complications:
- Quit smoking.
- Avoid aspirin or other blood-thinning medicines to prevent the risk of bleeding during and after the surgery.
- Inform the doctor about the use of current medications.
- Notify your doctor if you have any illness, such as a cold or fever before the procedure.
- Ask your doctor regarding any dietary restriction before the procedure.
PROCEDURE TYPE
The doctor will perform an eyebrow lift by using any one of the following techniques:
Classic/coronal eyebrow lift:
This technique involves making an incision at the anterior hairline across your head from one ear to the other, which is similar to a headphone pattern. The surgeon will now lift the forehead skin from the underlying muscles and reposition it. Then, the incisions are closed using sutures and are covered with a bandage. This type of eyebrow lift is not recommended in individuals who have high hairlines, thin hair or with a tendency to lose their hair.
Endoscopic brow lift:
In this procedure, three to five small incisions are made behind your hairline. Now, the surgeon will insert an endoscope beneath the skin to view the underlying muscles and tissues. Through another incision, the surgeon uses a surgical instrument or a temporary fixation device to lift the forehead skin. The skin is placed in a new position, and incisions are closed with sutures or small clips. Younger individuals who just started having brow problems are the best candidates for this technique.
ABOUT PROCEDURE
An eyebrow lift is performed either under general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation. Based on the facial features, the doctor will perform an eyebrow lift
POST-PROCEDURE CARE
Your forehead will be wrapped loosely with sterile padding to minimize swelling and to prevent bleeding. You need to keep your head raised for two to three days after the procedure to prevent swelling of the face. Pain, numbness and temporary discomfort are common at the site of incision, which can be managed by taking the prescribed medicines. Before discharge, the surgical nurse will give you certain instructions regarding wound care.
RECOVERY TIPS
Follow these tips for faster recovery:
- Apply cold compressor to reduce swelling
- Avoid stress on the wounds, such as wearing tops that are to be pulled over the head
- Avoid too many facial movements and frowning for the first few weeks after the surgery
- Take the prescribed medications regularly
- Regularly visit your doctor for follow-ups and to assess the outcome
FACTORS AFFECTING COST
An eyebrow lift surgery is usually optional and is not necessary to maintain the quality of life. Therefore, most of the health insurance policies do not cover an eyebrow lift surgery’s expenses.
The cost or eyebrow lift differs widely based on the following factors:
- Location of the hospital
- Type of hospital
- Surgeon’s fee (based on their experience)
- Operating room cost (per hour)
- Type of anaesthesia used
- Current medical reports
- Current medications
- Follow-up visits
FAQ
The person can get back to his/her work and regular activities after 10 to 14 days of an eyebrow lift surgery.
Yes. Loss of sensation around the site of the incision is common for the first few weeks after the surgery. This usually happens with the classic forehead lift, which might be temporary or even permanent.
Recovery after an eyebrow lift surgery is a gradual process. The recovery time may differ based on the type of technique, age, overall health, and several other factors.
It is advised to avoid hair treatments for at least one month after the surgery.
In rare cases, an eyebrow lift may cause the following:
- Hair loss at the incision site
- Eye irritation
- Eyebrow asymmetry
- Eyelid problems
- Skin loss
- Dryness of the eyes
- Poor wound healing
