The browlift, also known as a forehead lift, is a facial plastic surgery procedure that lifts and tightens the skin on the forehead. This eliminates sagging skin on the brow bone and eases the lines and wrinkles that form on the brow and forehead. Estimates from the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery show that members performed more than 12,500 brow lifts in 2012. This made the browlift the sixth most popular facial cosmetic surgery in the United States that year.
Despite the popularity of the browlift, there are still some things people do not realize about the surgery. Here are eight of the more surprising facts.
1. In Some Cases Health Insurance May Cover the Cost
Generally, health insurance does not provide coverage for cosmetic surgery. With the brow lift, however, you may get your health insurer to cover the surgery if the skin over your brow is sagging to such an extent that it is affecting your vision. Every company has different policies, but it never hurts to ask.
2. General Anesthesia is Often Unnecessary
Patients and surgeons have their own preferences when it comes to anesthesia. General anesthesia is one option, but it can take longer to wake up following the surgery and may involve an increased risk of complications. The brow lift can also be done using a sedative and local anesthesia. Some patients prefer that method, because recovery times are faster and there are fewer side effects and risks.
3. Endoscopic Brow Lifts Minimize Healing Times and Scars
Endoscopic brow liftsinvolve much smaller incisions than the traditional brow lift. There are three incisions in all, each just 1.5 centimeters in size. They are hidden within the hairline, so no one will notice the fine scars.
During the surgery, a scope is used to help the surgeon see the underlying muscle and tissue. This allows the surgeon to quickly trim excess tissue and skin before suturing the small incisions. As a result, you’ll heal quickly and have far less swelling.
4. The Surgery is Quick
The brow lift is not a lengthy surgery, especially if the endoscopic technique is used. Facial plastic surgeons can perform this surgery in as little as an hour.
5. The Surgery is Easily Combined with Blepharoplasty and Face Lifts
Because a brow lift corrects signs of aging on the brow and forehead, some people want to undergo additional surgeries in order to make their entire face look younger. Many facial plastic surgeons pair forehead lifts with eyelid surgery and face lifts. Make sure you mention the possibility of combining the surgeries during your consultation.
6. Discomfort After the Surgery is Minimal
Men and women often worry about the amount of pain they will experience following a surgery. Pain after a brow lift is minimal. There is some bruising and swelling to be expected, less if you had an endoscopic brow lift. This swelling may make the skin feel tight. Resting with your head elevated is helpful in reducing swelling. Within a week, most of the swelling and bruising will have diminished, and you’ll be ready to return to your regular work and social activities.
7. Scars Are Easy to Hide
Scars for a brow lift are hidden in the hairline. The scars from an endoscopic brow lift are small anyway, which makes them hard to see. As they are also hidden within your hair, you don’t have to worry about anyone seeing you’ve had a brow lift.
8. Feel Free to Resume Strenuous Workouts After Just Two Weeks
After a week, stitches are removed. At this point, you can resume light activities and exercise. After just one additional week of healing, and with your doctor’s go-ahead, you’re welcome to return to strenuous activities and exercise programs.
Gold Coast Plastic Surgery makes it easy for you to get answers to your pressing questions regarding brow lifts. Simply fill out the Ask the Surgeon form and Dr. Moynihan, a double-board certified facial cosmetic surgeon, will respond as quickly as possible. You can also reach the Chicago facial plastic surgeon by calling (312) 988-9300.
