Browlift

Ageing within the upper third of the face causes horizontal creases in the forehead and dropping of the eyebrows. Repositioning the brow and forehead gives an open appearance and fresh look to the upper third of the face which are characteristics of youth and beauty. The procedure for rejuvenation of the forehead and eyebrows is known as a brow lift. It aims to compensate for the drop in brow position that occurs with age although this can take place at a relatively young age in certain individuals with a familial tendency. If the eyebrows drop it also creates the impression that the upper eyelid has excess skin as it all gathers between the eyebrow and the upper lid.

The operation of Browlift is performed by Haluk Duman, MD. using the Endoscopic (“key hole”) technique. This utilises a surgical telescope (endoscope) to lift the brow and forehead without the need for visible scars. The incisions are short (12-15 mm) and kept within the scalp in order to keep them well hidden. The operation of Endoscopic Browlift is often performed in conjunction with surgery to the eyelids for removal of loose skin or bags (Blepharoplasty).

How do I prepare for surgery?
It is important to avoid taking any Aspirin or products containing Aspirin for 2 weeks either side of the operation since Aspirin has an adverse effect on bruising. The same is true for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Brufen and Nurofen). If you are a smoker it is helpful to stop for two weeks before surgery and for a week afterwards so as not to restrict the circulation to the skin.

What does the operation involve?
After the anaesthetic has been administered and you are asleep Haluk Duman, MD. prepares the hair of the scalp for surgery. He does not shave any hair at all during browlifting as it can easily be parted with hair gel. Haluk Duman, MD. infiltrates the forehead with a salt solution containing local anaesthetic (tumescent infiltration) as this reduces swelling and bruising after surgery. The incisions are then made in the scalp and are each 12-15 mm long. As they are kept behind the hair line there will be no visible scars on your forehead. The tissues of the forehead are then lifted and repositioned higher. At the time of the surgery the frown muscles can be weakened as well in addition to lifting of the brow. Haluk Duman, MD. is always careful to judge the position of your brow carefully in order to avoid creating a startled appearance after surgery. The skin is then supported in the new position and the wounds are stitched with dissolving sutures.

A more limited degree of brow lifting can be also achieved through the incisions made for an upper lid Blepharoplasty and if this is appropriate it will be carefully explained at your consultation.

How long will the surgery take?
Endoscopic browlift usually takes about an hour depending on the extent of the surgery.

Is it painful?
For the first few days it is common to experience some headache in the forehead region after browlifting as the nerves to the scalp in this area are stretched.

What can I expect after the Surgery?
It is hoped that you will have only mild swelling and bruising following your browlift, however this does vary depending on whether any eyelid surgery was performed at the same time. Whilst in hospital the nurses may apply cool soothing pads to your eyes in order to minimise this swelling further. In addition it is advised to rest for the first few days with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows as this also helps. During the first week you should avoid straining and bending down as this tends to increase the swelling. Haluk Duman, MD. will arrange to see you after about 7-10 days to check all is well however as the stitches are dissolving and hidden in the scalp there will be no sutures to remove.

Most patients can return to work after about 10 to 14 days although it will probably take at least 4 weeks before you would be ready for a major social event. To aid recovery strenuous sport should be avoided for 3-4 weeks. It is better to avoid wearing contact lenses for at least two weeks after browlifting and in some individuals this is best avoided for about a month.

What are the scars like?
The Endoscopic Browlift is performed by Haluk Duman, MD. using a “key hole” technique so all the small incisions are kept hidden in the scalp. This means that there will be no visible scars.

Summary
Endoscopic Browlift is an excellent operation for rejuvenating the forehead and lifting the brows to give an open appearance and fresh look to the upper third of the face which are characteristics of youth and beauty. By utilising “key hole” techniques it has the advantage of leaving no visible scars.