General Information

One area of the face that often shows the first signs of aging is the forehead and brow area. The skin in this area begins to lose its elasticity.  The unrelenting pull of gravity as well as the effects of excessive sun exposure affect the face, resulting in wrinkling across the forehead, frown lines, and an increasing “heaviness” of the eyebrows. Even people in their thirties can have faces that look older than their years. Your stern, angry, tired, or sad expression may not project how you actually feel. As a result, many people have opted for a surgical procedure known as a forehead lift (also known as a brow lift). Based on variations in how women and men age, different methods may be used to perform this procedure.

If you are thinking that a forehead lift can improve your appearance or the appearance of someone you know, then you’ll be interested in knowing how this procedure is performed and what you can be expect as a result from having it done. This information page, brought to you courtesy of Dr. Richard C. Parfitt, can address many of your questions and concerns.

Good rapport between patient and surgeon is important in achieving successful results in facial cosmetic surgery. Trust develops in the consulting stages prior to surgery. This trust is based on realistic expectations and exacting medical proficiency. If you have specific questions or specific needs, please ask Dr. Parfitt, as he should be able to answer them and accommodate your needs.

Insurance usually doesn’t cover surgery that is performed purely for cosmetic reasons. However, surgically correcting or improving sagging foreheads and brows that interfere with vision may be reimbursable in whole or in part. If you believe that your insurance might cover a forehead lift, then make sure you check with your insurance carrier for information on coverage.

Is it for You?

As with any elective surgical procedure, realistic expectations and good health are prerequisites. When the forehead skin is tightened as and the loose and excess skin is removed, the drooping brows and forehead wrinkling are modified. The procedure that accomplishes this tightening is called a brow lift or forehead lift.  The result is invariably a smoother brow and a more youthful and pleasant expression. To get an idea what a forehead lift can do for your appearance, put your hands above each brow and outside the edges of your eyes and gently raise the skin in an upward direction. Forehead lifts or brow lifts are an option if you have deep furrows between the eyes or if you have a sagging brow. This procedure is usually done between the ages of forty and sixty-five, although it may be beneficial at an earlier age.

Incisions can be placed behind the hairline, at the hairline, or in some cases, immediately above the brow or in the middle of the forehead. Small incision or endoscopic techniques are available, but don’t tend to provide as much of a lift or don’t last as long as some of the other methods described.  Dr. Parfitt can help select the technique that is best suited to your unique situation.

Making the Decision

Whether you are having surgery for cosmetic or functional reasons, choosing a qualified and certified facial plastic surgeon is of paramount importance. During the consultation, Dr. Parfitt will examine your facial anatomy, the quality of your skin, and your hairline position in order to decide where incisions would best be made. A medical history will be obtained so that Dr. Parfitt can consider any medical conditions that may heighten any surgical risk. A detailed explanation of the procedure will also include a discussion of risk(s) involved.

As the decision to proceed with a forehead/brow lift is made by you and Dr. Parfitt, the specific technique to be used will be described, as well as details about the surgical facility, the method of anesthesia, any additional surgery, and the benefits, risks, and potential complications. 

Procedure Details

The incision is usually made about 4cm behind the natural hairline, extending across the top of the head from about 1 inch above one ear to the same position above the other ear. However, if the patient has significant balding or has a receding hairline, the incision will most likely be made in the mid-forehead area or right at the hairline, along a natural forehead crease or wrinkle to minimize the visibility of the scar. Excess skin and scalp is measured and removed before fine metal clips are applied. Bandages are then applied along the incisions and a light head wrap is placed to keep the bandages secure. The procedure usually lasts about 45 to 60 minutes.

Recovery

Patients usually experience a small amount of bruising and swelling in the first week following surgery. In some patients, swelling and bruising may include the eye and cheek area as well as the forehead. You will be advised to keep your head elevated about 30 to 45 degree in order to minimize swelling.  As incisions heal, you will experience some numbness and may have some itching, both of which tend to diminish with time. Sutures and/or clips are usually removed within seven to 14 days following surgery. If bandages have been applied, they are removed in one to two days. It is important to follow the advice of Dr. Parfitt when considering resumption of strenuous activities. For most patients, the recovery time will not exceed 10-14 days, but patients may still be advised to refrain from strenuous activities for longer periods.  Bruising, at any point, can be camouflaged with standard make-up.

Facial cosmetic surgery makes it possible to correct signs of premature aging that can undermine self-confidence and self-esteem. By changing how your forehead and eyes appear, cosmetic surgery can help improve how you feel about yourself.