Endoscopic Brow lift (Forehead Lift)

In a brow lift, the muscles and tissues that cause the furrowing or drooping are removed or altered to smooth the forehead, raise eyebrows and minimize frown lines. Dr. Stein performs the surgery with an endoscope, a viewing instrument that allows the procedure to be performed with minimal incisions. A forehead lift is commonly performed to minimize the visible effects of aging. It also helps people of any age who have developed furrows or frown lines due to stress or muscle activity. Individuals with inherited conditions, such as a low, heavy brow or furrowed lines above the nose can achieve a more refreshed look with this procedure.

Dr. Stein makes three small incisions on each side of the scalp - in the hair - no hair is shaved. An endoscope -- a pencil-like camera device connected to a television monitor -- is inserted through one of the incisions, allowing Dr. Stein to have a clear view of the muscles and tissues beneath the skin. Using another instrument inserted through a different incision, the forehead skin is lifted and the muscles and underlying tissues are removed or altered to produce a smoother appearance. The eyebrows may also be lifted and secured into their higher position by sutures beneath the skin's surface or by temporary fixation screws placed behind the hairline.

After an Endoscopic Brow lift

About a week after your brow lift, you will return to Dr. Stein's office for stitch removal. Swelling and bruising, which can also affect other parts of your face, is common and can last about a week. For at least two days following surgery, you should keep your head elevated to help alleviate the swelling, and you can gently apply ice packs to the affected region. You should be sure to avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise or other activity for the first few weeks after surgery. Itching may be a side effect, though it is much milder than with traditional brow lift surgery. Additionally, you may experience numbness or tingling, which will subside over time. Most patients can return to work or school within 10 days, some sooner, depending your own personal rate of recovery.

Often, patients don't realize how much a sagging forehead contributes to the signs of aging until they see how much younger and more rested they appear after the lift, and they're very happy with the results. Although a forehead lift does not stop the clock, it can minimize the appearance of aging for years. As time passes, you may want to repeat the procedure.