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As aging persists, the eyebrows can begin to droop over the eyelids and lose the natural arch that was once apparent. This can leave patients looking angry or sad even though they may not feel this way. A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, can correct drooping and lines in the forehead by moving the tissue above the eyes to a higher position and eliminating excess skin. Dr. Larry Pollack performs brow lift surgery on a regular basis at his San Diego practice for patients who want to restore a youthful and rested appearance to their upper face.

Am I a Candidate for a Brow Lift?

The best candidates for a brow lift procedure are typically between 40 and 65 years old and have some or all of the following conditions:

  • Sagginess of the eyebrows
  • Wrinkles and lines on the forehead
  • Lines or deep creases between the eyebrows

How Is a Brow Lift Performed?

A brow lift is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Dr. Pollack will determine which technique to perform based on the individual needs of each patient.

Standard (Open) Technique

An incision will be made behind the hairline along the top of the head and down to the temporal regions. The eyebrows are lifted to a more youthful position, and the forehead becomes smoother as excess skin is pulled tight and removed.

Endoscopic Technique

After tiny incisions are made in the scalp, an endoscope with a camera is inserted under the skin, allowing Dr. Pollack to see and adjust the small muscles in the forehead. Wrinkles and frown lines on the forehead are smoothed out, and small hooks are placed under the skin of the eyebrows to hold them in place.

What Is Discussed During My Brow Lift Consultation?

When you meet with Dr. Pollack for your initial consultation, you will discuss your goals and concerns with him in detail, and he will customize the procedure to suit your needs and desires. Dr. Pollack will answer any questions that you have and make sure you completely understand the benefits as well as the risks of the procedure.

What Is My Brow Lift Recovery Like?

Once the brow lift is complete, the forehead will be wrapped to minimize swelling, and a tube may be placed at the incision site for draining purposes. Any pain that is present can be alleviated with medication, and most patients return to work about a week after surgery. Strenuous exercise and activities should be avoided until the incisions are completely healed.

Complications, although rare, can happen with any form of surgery. To reduce the possibility of developing complications, it is best to follow Dr. Pollack’s postoperative instructions. This will increase the likelihood of getting the best surgical outcome.

Patients are generally very satisfied with the results of their brow lift. For many, a renewed sense of self-confidence is discovered when they no longer look constantly tired or angry.

How Much Does a Brow Lift Cost?

The price can vary due to factors like the severity of the patient’s condition, the technique performed, and the facility fees.

Will Insurance Cover My Brow Lift?

It is unlikely that a brow lift will be covered by insurance. In general, this type of treatment is considered an elective form of cosmetic surgery.

If you are in the San Diego area and feel that a brow lift can benefit you, please call (858) 450-9100 today. Dr. Pollack is a board-certified plastic surgeon and looks forward to meeting you during your initial consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Brow Lift

What does a brow lift procedure entail?

A brow lift procedure, also known as a forehead lift, removes excess, sagging skin on the forehead and repositions the underlying muscles and tissues to elevate heavy, sagging brows and correct deep furrows. The brow lift results in a fresher and more youthful facial appearance.

Depending on a patient’s unique anatomy, the extent of correction, and the patient’s personal goals, Dr. Pollack can use different approaches to achieve the desired results. Dr. Pollack most commonly uses the endoscopic or open technique to provide you with the results you desire.

Is a brow lift for me?

Several considerations go into deciding as to whether you may need a brow lift. For instance, if you have significant sagging of the forehead that results in drooping, heavy eyebrows or want to eliminate furrows in the brow for a more refreshed appearance, a brow lift is the right procedure for you.

However, it is best to consult a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon for a proper evaluation based on your anatomy, medical history, and aesthetic preferences. This will ensure you get the best possible facial rejuvenation procedure(s) for your facial concerns.

Are there any risks and complications with brow lift surgery?

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks associated with the procedure. Although rare, some patients experience a loss of sensation around the incision site, infection, or bleeding complications.

To reduce the possibility of developing complications, it is extremely important to follow your preoperative and post-operative care instructions and work with a skilled plastic surgeon.

Can I have other cosmetic procedures done at the same time as a brow lift?

It is common for patients to decide to have a blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) at the same time to remove the excess upper lid skin that could potentially be obscuring the upper eyelid fold. Other complementary procedures, such as facelift or neck lift surgery, can be combined as well, meaning a single recovery and less overall cost in the long-run.

Are the results of a brow lift permanent?

The positive effects of a brow lift procedure will last you several years. As the aging process continues, wrinkles and mild sagging may reappear. Patients may consider touch-up surgical procedures or non-surgical treatments to maintain a rejuvenated appearance.

Are there alternatives to a brow lift?

Some patients opt for other non-invasive alternatives like BOTOX® Cosmetic injections or dermal fillers, but the results are not as dramatic or long lasting as those of a brow lift.

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Dr. Pollack is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is dedicated to providing patients with safe and effective procedures. He has over 20 years of experience in the field of plastic surgery and looks forward to meeting you. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Pollack, please call our La Jolla practice at 858-450-9100 today.