Each of us ages a little differently. Some individuals, like Christie Brinkley and Cindy Crawford, seem practically ageless. Unfortunately, we can’t all win the genetic lottery or turn back the clock on the sun damage caused by the folly of youth.
While some of us suffer from sagging skin in the neck and jaw area, and others find themselves dealing with crow’s feet, there are also many people who look in the mirror and see heavy creases in the forehead area that seem to create a perpetual scowl. The good news is, there are suitable treatment options for all of these cosmetic gripes, and if you want a smoother, younger-looking forehead, a brow lift is just the procedure you’re seeking.
What to Expect with a Brow Lift Procedure
A brow lift is a cosmetic procedure designed to elevate a sagging brow or correct asymmetry of the brow attributed to genetics, aging, or other causes. Before a brow lift, you’ll have to consult with a qualified doctor to make sure you’re a good candidate and discuss the potential risks and benefits associated with this surgery.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. It involves making one or more incisions in or along the hairline, in order to adjust the muscle and skin of the forehead and create a smoother, more youthful appearance. The placement of the incision is intended to hide any potential scarring that may result from the procedure.
Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures, adhesives, and/or clips, and recovery can begin. Sometimes, this procedure is paired with other cosmetic treatments, such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), for enhanced results.
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal following a brow lift, and aftercare may include the use of a temporary stint to drain excess fluid, a head wrap to minimize swelling, and OTC or prescription painkillers to increase comfort. You should plan to rest for several days following this procedure, and you should be able to return to normal activities within a couple of weeks. Full recovery could take several weeks.
Benefits of Brow Lift
The main benefit of a brow lift procedure is the restoration of your youthful appearance. However, it could also serve to correct sagging that impairs vision or causes you to look angry, even when your emotions are neutral or positive. These improvements, in turn, can boost your confidence and reduce any stress you may feel about how others perceive your appearance.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
If you’re not sure you’re ready for a brow lift just yet, but you’d like to see some improvements to this area of the face, you’ll be pleased to learn there is a non-surgical alternative, thanks to Botox. These injections can be particularly helpful for patients with strong brow muscles that have caused significant wrinkles to appear.
Botox will not technically lift a sagging brow, and results will be more subtle than with a brow lift. This is why it’s important to discuss your goals with a qualified professional. If you’re ready to improve sagging and wrinkling in your forehead area, contact Beverly Fischer, MD and the talented team at the Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery today, online or at 410-308-4700, to request a consultation and learn more.
