Brow Lift
Dr. Johnson performs brow and forehead lifts to raise eyebrows and reduce ridges and furrows on the forehead, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance. This procedure can be performed in conjunction with other surgeries.
An incision is generally made across the top of the head from the front of one ear to the front of the other ear. The incision is placed within the hairline and at a heavy bevel. This allows the underlying hair to grow through the incision eventually hiding it. You can see examples of the incision under "view our gallery" above, just click on the link. The forehead and brows are then elevated and excess skin is removed. The flap is then sutured. A few years ago the latest and greatest brow lift technique was the endoscopy approach. This technique allowed a few little incisions within scalp. An endoscope is inserted and through a viewing port the dissection is completed. Sutures are used to then reposition the brows in a more superior direction. No skin is removed and the brow position depends solely on the suture and a mini screw. This technique is difficult to master and even then provides inferior results compared to a traditional open approach.
The pictures above highlight the desired outcome of
a brow lift. This patient had an upper blepharoplasty a few years ago by
another surgeon. Although the surgery was a success it was not the
right surgery for this patient. She continued to hear comments about how "tired" she looked. Her issue is brow ptosis or dropping of
her eyebrows. The lids are highlighted in red. Notice on the left how much of the lid is hidden by the sagging brow. The picture on the right is after her brow lift surgery. Notice that the eyelid is now open and represents a more youthful appearing eye while the brow is now resting above the bony ridge of the brow, also a youthful position.
Before surgery
We will evaluate your medical history in order to determine your overall health. Dr. Johnson will discuss with you how your face can look and what you can expect from surgery. Our objective is to create a natural appearance that is pleasing to you. Photographs are taken to determine the amount of improvement expected and for comparison after surgery.
We will provide you with preoperative instructions that may include the elimination of specific drugs containing aspirin several weeks before surgery to minimize excess bleeding. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to prevent infection. You may be instructed to shampoo your hair the night before surgery. Do not smoke for seven (7) prior to the surgery.
Post-Operative Information
Antibiotics may be prescribed for several days following surgery. Sutures are generally removed within one week. Swelling and some bruising may occur which should subside within a few weeks. Women will be allowed to use eye cosmetics three days after surgery. You may wash your hair after 3 days and can proceed with your normal daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Keep any incision moist with Polysporin for 2 weeks. You can find Polysporin over the counter at any local pharmacy. A final evaluation may occur within several months from the initial surgical procedure.
Insurance
Your insurance company may pay for part or all of the cost of surgery if the procedure is performed as a result of visual impairment. Because every insurance carrier is different, it is recommended that you check with your own insurance company to determine the level of coverage.
