Brow Lift Surgery
The following information sheet is intended to assist patients undergoing brow lift (forehead) surgery with Dr Nicholas Lotz.
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Patient Information
Factsheet
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Tags
Brow Lift
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With age the eyebrows can fall to a lower position and result in an angry or sad look. Wrinkles can appear on the forehead and furrows may appear between the brows. In women, the natural arch to the eyebrow may flatten and look less youthful.
A browlift (or forehead lift) is a surgical procedure to restore the upper third of the face and elevate the brows to their previous position.
A browlift is frequently combined with an upper blepharoplasty for complete rejuvenation of the upper face, or a face lift to treat the entire face. Sometimes non-surgical treatments, such as muscle-relaxing injections may also be of benefit.
Before the
surgery
During your initial consultation, Dr Lotz will spend time with you discussing exactly what your concerns are. All patients have slightly different requirements, and will require surgery to be tailored to their needs. Dr Lotz will explain in detail what is required in your case, and the relevant risks and expected recovery will be discussed.
You will be shown photographs of other patients who have undergone similar brow lift surgery, so you have an idea what to expect with respect to results.
You will be sent an information pack further explaining the procedure, along with a detailed, personalised quotation which explains all the relevant costs pertaining to the procedure as well and any heath fund or Medicare rebates applicable.
It is important that you stop any blood thinning medications at least 10 days prior to surgery in order to reduce the risk of bleeding.
You should also cease smoking a month before and a month after your surgery to reduce the risk of skin healing problems.
You will have a second consultation a week or two prior to your surgery to answer any final questions you may have, and photographs will be taken to aid planning your surgery.
The surgery
Dr Lotz always performs his brow lifts in an accredited hospital under general anaesthetic with an experienced anaesthetist.
Surgical procedure
There are several different ways to perform a brow lift, with incisions being located either within the hair, at the hairline, or in a skin crease just above the eyebrow. There are advantages and disadvantages to each of these, and depending on exactly what you need, one may be more suitable than another.
The aim of the surgery is to reposition you brow, whilst avoiding the overly-tightened, “shocked” look.
The procedure will take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, and you will be in hospital overnight. Dr Lotz will check on you in the hospital before you are discharged the next morning.
After the surgery
Post-operative recovery
Dr Lotz will visit you in the hospital the morning after the surgery before you are discharged.
Follow-up
You will be able to wash your hair the day after the surgery. Stitches will be removed a week after the surgery, and most people can return to work 10-14 days after surgery.
Risks of brow lift surgery
- Anaesthetic (nausea, vomiting, allergy)
- Infection
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Hair loss if incisions are in the hair
- Numbness of the scalp
- Injury to the nerve that moves the forehead (usually temporary)
- Asymmetry of the brow positions
- Recurrence of the brow droop
Before & After
Case Example:
Upper blepharoplasty with direct skin excision browlift - patien
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is there an ideal age for brow lift surgery?
The brow lift procedure can be performed at any age, although the most common age is from the early 30’s onwards. There is no age limit for this procedure.
Where is brow lift surgery performed and do I need to stay in hospital?
All brow lifts are performed in a private, accredited hospital under general anaesthetic with a qualified anaesthetist and usually take approximately 1.5 hours. In direct brow lift, where a small amount of skin is removed from above the eyebrow, the procedure will only take 30 minutes. You can go home the same day but will require someone to pick you up and to care for you at least overnight.
How long does a brow lift last?
Brow lift surgery is usually a one-time event.
Where will the scars for a brow lift be?
Depending on what is the best approach for you, scars are either hidden in the hair, or concealed in a forehead crease. They usually heal with minimal scarring.
How do I avoid a 'surprised' or 'startled' look after brow lift surgery?
Dr Lotz always aims for a very natural look with his cosmetic surgery. Choosing the correct procedure to suit your needs will help ensure the best results.
How much does brow lift surgery cost?
The cost for the procedure will vary a little depending on what you require. There is usually no Medicare item number for a brow lift. You will be sent a detailed quotation following your consultation which outlines the fees for Dr Lotz, the anaesthetist and any hospital fees which apply.
Are there any Medicare rebates for brow lift surgery?
There are no Medicare rebates as a brow lift is a cosmetic procedure.