A brow lift (browplasty), also known as a forehead lift, is designed to address low-positioned brows. This procedure is also performed to reduce age-related lines and wrinkles that develop across the forehead and bridge of the nose. It can also raise the eyebrows to a higher position.
Concerns That a Brow Lift Can Address
A brow lift is a surgical procedure that can be used to address age-related changes on the face. Ageing causes low-positioned eyebrows, horizontal lines, and creases due to the gradual loss of skin elasticity and weakening of the underlying forehead muscles. Aside from addressing age-related aesthetic concerns, a brow lift can also address vision obstruction due to excess skin on the upper eyelids.
Brow Lift Preparation
The first step is to arrange a consultation with Dr Matthew Peters in Brisbane. During this meeting, you can discuss your concerns and expectations, ask questions, and learn more about what happens during the procedure.
Dr Peters and a Valley Plastic Surgery nurse will provide you with information about how to prepare for the procedure and post-surgery care requirements during your consultation.
Prepare a comfortable recovery area in your home with pillows, ice packs, and entertainment. Consider prepping healthy meals, buying loose clothing, and getting any necessary prescriptions before the procedure date.
It’s also important to stop smoking and avoid certain medications, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, as these can increase bleeding risk or affect the wound healing process. Moreover, you may need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery because you may feel groggy or dizzy due to the effects of the anaesthesia. It is also recommended that someone assist you for the first few days of recovery. This ensures you have the necessary support to follow post-operative care instructions.
Your Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation for a brow lift in Brisbane, Dr Matthew Peters will discuss your goals and expectations, focusing on how the procedure can address your specific concerns. Your medical history and current health will be evaluated to determine whether a brow lift is a suitable option. Dr Peters will conduct a thorough examination and suggest a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. This is an opportunity for you to ask any questions about the procedure, including the surgical technique, anaesthesia options, and expected outcomes. You will also meet with a Valley Plastic Surgery nurse to discuss the procedure and recovery process in more detail.
If you and Dr Peters decide that a brow lift is a suitable option to address your concerns, you can request a surgical quote and proceed with scheduling the surgery.
The Procedure
Dr Peters tailors the procedure according to the patient’s unique facial structure and aesthetic goals. The brow lift procedure typically begins with anaesthesia. The type of anaesthesia will be determined depending on your overall health and preferences. This can be either local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. Once the area is numb, Dr Peters will begin creating the planned incisions. The incisions are often placed within the hairline or along natural creases in the forehead to minimise the visibility of the scars. Dr Peters will choose the incision technique based on the extent of the correction needed and your individual anatomy.
In an endoscopic brow lift, Dr Peters uses a small camera and instruments to lift and reposition the underlying tissues of the forehead through small incisions. This approach allows him to adjust the tissues precisely. For patients requiring more extensive correction, Dr Peters performs a coronal brow lift. This type of brow lift involves a longer incision across the top of the scalp, allowing removal of excess skin and repositioning of the underlying muscles.
After the adjustments are made, the incisions are closed using sutures or staples. A sterile dressing or bandage is also applied to protect the area from further damage, prevent infection, and minimise swelling. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case. You will need to stay in a recovery area to monitor afterwards. Once you are stable, Dr Peters will provide specific aftercare instructions and will allow you to go home. However, you will be advised to have someone available to drive you home and assist during the initial recovery period.
Recovery
Recovering from a brow lift involves a series of steps to prevent complications and promote healing. In the first few days after the surgery, you will likely experience swelling and bruising around the forehead and eye area. These are expected and are part of the healing process. They will heal gradually and can be managed by taking the medications prescribed by Dr Peters.
To help with the recovery process, you will need to follow specific aftercare instructions, such as the following:
- Apply cold compresses or ice packs gently to the forehead for 15-20 minutes every hour.
- Keep your head elevated while sleeping or resting to reduce swelling.
- Keep the incision sites clean and dry to prevent infection.
- Clean the area with a mild antiseptic solution and apply any prescribed ointments.
- Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the incision sites, and follow all instructions regarding when and how to wash your hair.
- Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and any exercises that may increase blood pressure for at least two weeks or as advised by Dr Peters.
- Gentle walking is encouraged to promote blood circulation, but activities that involve bending or heavy exertion should be avoided.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr Peters to monitor your healing progress, assess the recovery process, address any concerns, and remove any sutures or staples if necessary.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from direct sun exposure.
- Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol during the recovery period, as they can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Take all prescribed medications, including antibiotics and pain relievers, as directed by Dr Peters to prevent infection and manage discomfort.
It is important to remember that the full results of a brow lift may take several weeks to become noticeable as the swelling subsides and the tissues heal completely.
Risks and Complications
Undergoing a brow lift, like any surgical procedure, involves certain risks and potential complications. During the consultation, Dr Peters will discuss them so you can make an informed decision.
Common risks and complications associated with eyebrow lift surgery include:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Bleeding
- Haematoma
- Asymmetry
- Nerve damage
- Hair loss along the incision line
- Skin sensation changes
- Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
- Prolonged swelling and bruising
- Unsatisfactory results
How Much Does a Brow Lift Cost?
The cost of a brow lift procedure depends on various factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, hospital fees, and anaesthesia fees. Brow lift procedures are generally considered cosmetic, so they do not attract Medicare rebates or private health contributions. If you and Dr Peters decide surgery is a suitable option, you will receive a detailed quote after your consultation.
Your Questions Answered: Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should a brow lift be performed?
A brow lift can be performed at any age when an individual starts to notice low-positioned eyebrows, horizontal lines, and creases due to the gradual loss of skin elasticity and weakening of the underlying forehead muscles associated with the ageing process. A consultation with Dr Peters can help determine patient suitability for the procedure.
What can I expect during my consultation?
How long does it take to recover from an eyebrow lift surgery?
How long do the results of the procedure last?
Does Medicare pay for a brow lift?
Brow Lift Related Procedures
Facelift and Necklift
Otoplasty
Upper Eyelid Reduction
