Raising a brow that has dropped, so it no longer weighs on the upper lid. It is done either through small cuts in the hairline or directly above the brow.
What it is
A brow that has dropped pushes the upper lid down and can look like heavy eyelids. Lifting the brow to its natural position often does more than removing lid skin alone.
The operation
An endoscopic lift uses small cuts in the hairline and a camera to lift the brow. A direct lift uses a fine cut just above the brow, which suits deeper lines and a heavier brow.
It takes one to two hours, under local anaesthetic or a general if you prefer.
What it does not do
It does not remove excess eyelid skin. Some people need both a brow lift and upper eyelid surgery.
Who it can help
It may suit you if raises a low brow that weighs on the upper lids is what you notice most, and you are otherwise well.
- A brow that sits low, especially at the outer end
- Lifting your forehead to open your eyes
- Heavy upper lids that return after eyelid surgery
- Deep lines above the brow, for a direct lift
Your consultant will assess your brow and lid together, because treating one changes the other.
Recovery and risks
Everyone heals at their own pace. This is a typical course, and your consultant will tell you what to expect in your case.
The first few days
Swelling spreads across the forehead and around the eyes. Rest with your head raised.
The first week
Stitches or clips come out at about a week. The forehead feels tight and numb.
Weeks two and three
Bruising fades and most people are back at work.
Three to six months
Numbness settles and the scar softens. Your final review is around this time.
Possible risks
Every operation carries some risk. For brow lift these include:
- Numbness of the forehead, which usually settles
- A small difference between the two sides
- A scar hidden in the hairline or brow
- Infection or bleeding, which are uncommon
- Rarely, weakness of the forehead muscles
Your surgeon will go through the risks that apply to you, and give you written information to take home.
Insurance
Brow lift is sometimes covered when the problem affects your health or your vision. Surgery for appearance alone is not.
Check your cover with your insurer before your consultation, and your surgeon will supply what they need.
Questions patients ask
Where are the scars?
In the hairline for an endoscopic lift, or in the line just above the brow for a direct lift, where they usually settle well.
Will my forehead feel numb?
Numbness above the cut is common for a few weeks or months, and usually settles.
How long is recovery?
Swelling and bruising settle over two weeks. Most people take two weeks off.
Is it covered?
Sometimes, when a low brow affects your field of vision.