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The eyebrows communicate information through non-verbal interaction. Raised eyebrows can signify excitement or interest, while lowered eyebrows can communicate exhaustion, anger or worry. Over time, ageing can cause the brows to fall and droop over the upper eyelids. The brow can also develop permanent lines that make the face appear aged and tired. Descent of the eyebrows is often the first sign of facial ageing.
A browlift procedure, or browplasty, is an effective means to rejuvenate the face and bring attention back to your eyes. If your face looks older than you feel and your eyebrows are beginning to sag, a browlift may help.
Direction of pull of most browlift procedures
Browlift Surgery
The position and shape of the brow may be changed through several techniques. The most commonly performed is an endoscopic browlift. This procedure is performed through four or five small incisions made behind the hairline. Through these incisions, a fibreoptic camera is inserted that allows Dr. Gerarchi to move the brow to a higher and more youthful position. This procedure is commonly performed under a general anaesthetic, but may be performed under sedation in select patients.
As an alternative, Dr. Gerarchi may recommend a temporal browlift. This procedure can be performed under local anaesthesia. This is a good option for patients who want a mild to moderate lift along the outer portion of the eyebrows and who have a lateral brow that is flat or sloping downward but a central brow that does not need elevation.
With men, the eyebrows naturally run straight across the eyebrow. When performed on men, Dr. Gerarchi will take care to return the eyebrows to their more youthful and higher position on the brow bone, but not so high as to make the eyebrows appear feminine or over-done.
Before & After Browlift by Dr Gerarchi
Forehead Lift Recovery
An endoscopic forehead lift is minimally invasive. Most patients usually experience very minimal bruising or swelling, though the upper eyelids may be bruised and swollen for one to two weeks after surgery. Incisions will usually be made in the scalp, behind the hairline, where they will be well hidden. Tenderness is common at the incision sites, but this will resolve in a matter of weeks. Most patients take 1-2weeks away from work to allow the new brows to settle into their final position.
Dr. Gerarchi will remove staples in the scalp during a follow-up appointment about 10 to 14 days after your procedure.
For the first week, sleep with your head and back elevated to help avoid swelling. Most patients experience very little pain, but some discomfort and tightness of the brow and top of the head is normal. Some patients also experience forehead numbness, but this will almost always pass. Any swelling will subside within about a week. Any bruising that occurs will peak around the third day and resolve over a couple of weeks.
FAQ
Am I a candidate for a browplasty?
If your eyebrows are sagging and making you appear tired, sad or angry, you may be a good candidate for this surgery. If just the outer portionS of your eyebrows are beginning to sag, a temporal lift may be an option.
Can a forehead lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Complementary procedures include a facelift, blepharoplasty (or eyelid surgery) or facial fillers. Anti-wrinkle treatments are complementary also, and are often recommended preoperatively to decrease the muscle ‘pull’ on the brow after your operation.
Will I have a “surprised” look after surgery?
It is fairly common to have a “surprised” look for a few weeks after surgery, although this is due to temporary swelling. As swelling subsides, the brow will descend to its normal youthful position. You will still look like you.
What can I expect during recovery?
Swelling and bruising are common and typically resolve after one week, although residual swelling can take a few weeks to fully disappear. Most patients can return to work after 1-2 weeks. Most patients are surprised that the pain and discomfort is much less than they anticipated. Dr. Gerarchi will prescribe oral pain medication that makes recovery more comfortable.
How can I prepare for a brow lift?
Before your procedure, Dr. Gerarchi will review your medical history and discuss any medication or supplements that should be discontinued to avoid complications. It is also important to quit smoking at least two weeks before surgery, as smoking can increase the risks of complications and slow healing. Before surgery, you will receive prescriptions for all medications you will need afterward, which should be filled before surgery. Plan to have someone take you to and pick you up and stay with you the night of your procedure.
Please note:
The before and after photographs shown are of Dr Gerarchi’s patients and the surgery has been performed by Dr Gerarchi. They are for illustrative purposes only. They show the results achieved by individual patients and are no guarantee of the outcome to be expected by any particular individual considering surgery. Surgeons of good reputation do not guarantee outcomes. Unexpected events and individual healing characteristics can affect the outcome of any surgery.
Please feel free free to call us on (02) 9412 4599 or email if you would like any additional information about this procedure.
