So many of our facial expressions can come from the upper half of our face. Our brows can reveal a lot about the way we think and feel. Over time, however, this forehead/brow region of the face can be affected by signs of aging. Saggin, drooping, and wrinkles may begin to appear in this area, creating a tired or sad appearance unrelated to our true expressions and emotions.
Luckily, at Watterson Plastic Surgery, we are able to offer patients the forehead lift procedure to combat these signs of aging and restore the appearance of youthful expressions on the face. Dr. Watterson is proud to offer forehead lifts to patients in Draper, Salt Lake City, Sandy, South Jordan, and the entire Wasatch Front. Contact us today to request a consultation.
What Is A Forehead Lift?
A forehead lift, also known as a brow lift, is a surgical procedure that raises the eyebrows in order to eliminate the appearance of wrinkles, improve the appearance of the upper eye, and tighten the muscles and skin in the area to achieve a more youthful look. This procedure can also correct sagging brows or deep furrows between the eyes to allow for a more aesthetic appearance. In some cases, this procedure can even improve vision.
What Are The Benefits Of A Forehead Lift?
A forehead lift can provide patients with many benefits, including:
- Raising sagging eyebrows
- Lifting or removing excess skin that hoods the upper eyelids
- Softening wrinkles
- Softening frown lines
- Placing the eyebrows in a more alert position
- Tightening the facial muscles
- Lifting the skin
- Eliminating wrinkles that can appear between the eyes
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for a Forehead Lift?
Ideal candidates for a forehead lift should be in overall good health, non-smokers, and able to maintain realistic expectations regarding the results of their procedure. The forehead lift is safe and effective for most adult patients. However, patients between the ages of 40 and 65 years may see the best results since the forehead lift is beneficial to eliminating the appearance of signs of aging. Younger patients who have heavy brows or deep lines between their brows may also benefit from a forehead lift.
If you are a patient who has already had plastic surgery performed on your upper eyelids, a forehead lift will not be recommended for you as it may affect the ability to properly close your eyelids. Additionally, if you have a higher-set hairline, you may not be an eligible candidate for this procedure.
How Is A Forehead Lift Performed?
A forehead lift may be performed with or without an endoscope (an instrument that allows the plastic surgeon to view the muscles and tissues underneath the forehead skin). Dr. Watterson utilizes a surgical technique that involves a temporal lift and a subcutaneous brow lift to successfully perform this procedure, rather the endoscopic approach which would involve making small incisions in the scalp. This helps to create natural-looking results in patients, allowing them to appear expressive and more youthful.
How Long Does A Forehead Lift Take?
The forehead lift procedure can take anywhere between one to two hours.
Will My Forehead Lift Results Look Natural?
Yes. If you are a patient who is not looking for dramatic results, a forehead lift can be a great option when it comes to achieving a more alert look, enhancing the upper region of your face, and looking younger. Dr. Watterson takes great care to prioritize patient satisfaction during each procedure, focusing on a technique that delivers long-lasting, natural-looking results. Similarly, if you are a patient who wants a more dramatic change, the procedure will be customizable to your aesthetic goals, allowing for room for personalization and adjustments.
Are There Side Effects To A Forehead Lift?
Yes. Like any other surgical procedure, a forehead lift may come with several side effects, which include:
- Swelling
- Numbness
- Headaches
- Bruising
- Itching
These side effects are common after a surgical procedure and should heal independently within two weeks.
Why Choose a Forehead Lift Over Non-Surgical Treatments?
While dermal fillers and injectables such as BOTOX® Cosmetic can all effectively eliminate the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging in the forehead or brow of the face, one thing these non-surgical treatments may lack is the actual lifting of the skin. Additionally, many non-surgical treatments cannot provide long-lasting results. If you are looking for a more permanent solution to lifting your face and improving the appearance of expressions while eliminating signs of aging, a surgical forehead lift will be the most beneficial procedure for you. When performed expertly, a forehead lift will leave patients looking more youthful for years to come.
See What Our Patients Are Saying!
“With my procedure, there was minimal pain, no scarring, and my face looks amazing. I look and feel refreshed and awake. Thank you to the Watterson Plastic Surgery team for restoring my youthful eyes and my confidence!”
What Is The Recovery Like From A Forehead Lift?
Scars will fade considerably over time and are hidden by the hair. Back to work: Two to three days, usually sooner, for endoscopic forehead lift. More strenuous activity: several weeks. Full recovery from bruising: two to three weeks. Limit sun exposure for several months.
How Long Do The Results From A Forehead Lift Last?
The results from a forehead lift can last up to 15 years. If any sagging or drooping of the skin is experienced again, patients may come back to Watterson Plastic Surgery for another forehead lift procedure to maintain their desired results.
Are There Risks To A Forehead Lift?
Although the forehead lift is safe and effective, it still can come with several risks. These include:
- Anesthesia risks
- Asymmetry
- Damage to nerves or blood vessels in the face
- Infection
- Blood clotting
- Collapsed lung
- Hair loss around the incision area
- Chronic facial pain
- Numbness
Dr. Watterson will always talk with you about potential risks specific to your procedures in your consultation.
Brow Lift Techniques
Each of our techniques addresses specific concerns and delivers natural-looking results. They can also be used together. Here’s a closer look at these two options:
Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift
A temporal or lateral brow lift focuses on lifting the outer edges of the eyebrows. Small incisions are made at the temples, hidden within the hairline. This technique smooths crow's feet and elevates the outer brow, offering a refreshed, youthful look with a quicker recovery time.
Subcutaneous Brow Lift
A subcutaneous brow lift involves making incisions just above the eyebrows to lift the skin and underlying tissues. This method is ideal for those with significant forehead wrinkles or drooping brows. It provides precise control over the lifting process, although the incisions are more visible.
Why Choose Watterson Plastic Surgery?
At Watterson Plastic Surgery, you are in the caring and capable hands of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Watterson. His commitment to patient safety and natural, confident beauty is evident in every procedure he performs.
Dr. Watterson’s surgical training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Emory University, combined with an anatomic research fellowship at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, has equipped him with exceptional skills and knowledge. Dr. Watterson has been voted "Top Doc" by Charlotte physicians for 12 consecutive years and is excited to continue his legacy of excellence and compassionate care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Recovery Post-Op Tips After A Brow Lift?
To promote a smooth recovery after your brow lift, keep your head elevated to reduce swelling and avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks. Use cold compresses to help with bruising and swelling. Keep the incision sites clean and dry, following your doctor's advice on wound care. Protect your healing skin by avoiding direct sun exposure and using sunscreen. Lastly, attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns. Following these tips will help you recover quickly and enjoy your refreshed look.
What Is The Best Age To Get A Brow Lift?
The best age for a brow lift depends on individual needs and signs of aging. Most patients are between 40 and 65 years old when they choose to undergo this procedure, as it can help with age-related sagging and wrinkles. However, younger patients with genetically heavy brows or deep forehead lines may also benefit from a brow lift. Consult with Dr. Watterson to determine the right time for you.
Can A Brow Lift Be Combined With Eyelid Surgery?
Yes, a brow lift can be combined with eyelid surgery. This pairing can improve the overall look of your upper face, addressing sagging brows and eyelids at the same time. Dr. Watterson will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the best treatment plan.
Can I Finance My Brow Lift?
Yes, you can finance your brow lift at Watterson Plastic Surgery. CareCredit allows you to manage the cost of your procedure with convenient monthly payments. This makes it easier to achieve your aesthetic goals without immediate financial stress. Contact our office to learn more about our payment options.
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Schedule Your Brow Lift Consultation Today!
Interested in learning more about brow lifts? Give us a call at 801-571-2020 or click here to schedule your consultation with Dr. Paul Watterson today at our office location in Draper, UT!
