Who Should Consider a Brow Lift Surgery?

Individuals can consider a brow lift surgery if they have concerns about:

• Sagging or low eyebrow positioning that creates a sad, grumpy, or fatigued appearance
• Deep, horizontal lines that span across the forehead (worry lines)
• Frown lines or furrows between the eyebrows (commonly known as 11 lines or devil horns) or across the tip of the nose
• Excess fatty tissue or skin hanging over your eyes
• Being unable to apply makeup on the upper eyelid after its surface area has reduced due to drooping tissue as you age

A brow lift surgery can improve an individual's appearance by:

• Repositioning a saggy or low eyebrow that hangs over the upper eyelid
• Raising a flat eyebrow for a more youthful, fresh, and alert appearance
• Making an individual look happier and friendlier

What Happens During a Brow Lift Surgical Procedure?

There are different types of surgical methods available, depending on the unique circumstances and desired results of the patient. Each involves variations in the length and location of the necessary incisions. The choice of brow lift technique is integral to the outcome, so this procedure relies heavily on the quality of the surgeon’s work and experience.

As a surgeon certified by two boards and having years of experience performing different kinds of brow lift surgery, Dr. Greco will carefully assess a patient's features and only consider methods that will yield the best possible results in line with a patient's goals.

• During the traditional (open) brow lift procedure, Dr. Greco makes an incision across the forehead, either around the hairline, or in one of the forehead creases. The forehead skin is lifted, excess tissue or skin is removed, and the eyebrows are lifted. Muscles may also be relaxed or loosened. Once he is done, Dr. Greco will suture the brow into its new position. This procedure may sometimes be referred to as a classic, coronal, or trichophytic brow lift.
• Some patients may also benefit from an endoscopic brow lift, a surgical procedure that elevates the brows and rejuvenates the forehead using very small incisions in the scalp.
• In a limited incision technique, the outer part of the eyebrows is raised to provide direct vision without an endoscope. The surgical scars are hidden in the hairline, and can barely show on even balding men who have little hair remaining.*

After a careful examination of your facial anatomy, Dr. Greco will formulate a customized plan to meet your needs. This may include eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) to complement the brow lift, laser skin resurfacing to treat crow's feet and forehead wrinkles, a facelift for both upper and lower facial rejuvenation, or BOTOX^® Cosmetic treatments to further smooth crow's feet or frown lines.

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Aftercare and Recovery from a Brow Lift

The amount of time it takes to recover from a brow lift surgery varies from patient to patient and can also depend on the scope of the surgery itself. Dr. Greco and his team will explain how long it may take before you can resume your normal level of activity following a brow lift.

You will be given detailed instructions and information about your aftercare, including how to care for the incisions, what symptoms you should expect to experience, and what may be the potential signs of complications to look out for.

Additionally, you will be asked to come back for a follow-up appointment to check your healing on the morning following the brow lift. Staples and sutures are removed about one week after the surgery.

Typically, there should not be much pain after the surgery. There may be some discomfort and tightness from ear to ear, across the eyebrow, and on the top of the head.

Temporary bruising, numbness, and/or swelling is common on the first night after the brow lift. Maximum swelling usually happens between 48 to 72 hours post-surgery, while bruising can peak from the third to fifth day. This typically resolves over two to three weeks.* If bruising persists throughout the follow-up process, Dr. Greco's team can offer treatments in the office that help reduce bruising or redness, such as the VBeam Perfecta.

You will be allowed to bathe the day after the brow lift surgery, but must be observant and careful when using hot water, hair dryers, or combs, as the numbness of your scalp may mask any signs of damage or injury to your skin or hair. Sensation and feeling in your scalp normally starts to return over a few weeks, and your scalp may feel itchy as the nerves recover. The time it takes for complete sensation to return, however, can vary depending on the patient.

By about a month after the brow lift, you should be able to resume your normal levels of work and activity, depending on the type and amount of physical exertion you use to carry out your duties. You may also be able to exercise, while avoiding any physical activity that causes pain or discomfort until you are further along in your recovery from the brow lift.*

Frequently Asked Questions About Brow Lift Surgery

What can I expect immediately after the surgery?

The forehead will have some swelling, which may also cause the upper eyelids to swell. This usually disappears after a few days. The swelling may also cause tightness and difficulty raising the eyebrows. The small surgical clips will be removed after one week. Most patients find that 80 percent of the swelling disappears after two weeks.*

When will I be presentable in public?

Many patients feel comfortable appearing in public in 10 days to two weeks. Makeup will help cover any residual bruising.

Will I lose any hair?

Although a small amount of hair may be removed with excess skin during the procedure, no hair is shaved when preparing for a brow lift. Dr. Greco may use a special technique to advance the position of the hairline, if this is one of your concerns.

Will I have any numbness?

Numbness after surgery depends on the particular incision and approach used. Numbness generally resolves in several weeks to several months after the procedure—although, in rare instances, it may last longer.

What are the risks?

During your consultation, we will discuss potential risks, as well as ways to minimize them.