Cosmetic Surgery: The Guide to Brow Lift Procedures

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the upper face by lifting sagging brows, smoothing forehead wrinkles, and reducing frown lines. By raising the eyebrows to a more youthful and alert position, a brow lift can significantly enhance your overall facial appearance. At WIH Hospital, we offer two primary techniques: the minimally invasive Endoscopic Brow Lift and the traditional Coronal Brow Lift. Each technique is tailored to specific patient needs and aesthetic goals, providing a natural and long-lasting result.

Why Choose WIH Hospital for Your Brow Lift Surgery?

  • Expert Surgeons: Highly skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in facial rejuvenation procedures.
  • Personalized Approach: Tailored treatment plans to meet your unique aesthetic aspirations.
  • Advanced Techniques: Utilization of modern surgical techniques for optimal results and safety.
  • Patient Safety: The highest standards of medical care and patient safety protocols.
  • Comprehensive Care: From your initial consultation through to your full recovery, our team provides continuous support and guidance.
Brow Lift Surgery

Techniques of Brow Lifts

Endoscopic Brow Lift

This technique involves making three to five small incisions (less than an inch) behind the hairline. An endoscope is inserted through one incision to provide a magnified view of the underlying muscles and tissues, while specialized instruments are used through the other incisions to lift and reposition the brow.

Endoscopic Brow Lift with Endotine

The Endoscopic Brow Lift is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes an endoscope (a small camera) to perform the surgery through a few small incisions hidden within the hairline. A modern advancement often used with this technique is the Endotine device. Endotine is a bioabsorbable implant with small pins that help secure the forehead tissue and brow in its new, elevated position. This multi-point fixation provides a more stable and consistent lift compared to traditional suturing. The Endotine device dissolves naturally over several months, and the results can last for many years.

Coronal Brow Lift

This is a more traditional and extensive surgical technique. A single, long incision is made from ear to ear across the top of the scalp, concealed within the hair. The forehead skin and underlying tissues are then lifted and repositioned under direct visualization. Any excess skin is trimmed, and the incision is closed. This technique is often used for patients with more severe brow ptosis or significant skin laxity.

What to Expect

Both procedures are performed under either IV sedation or general anesthesia. The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness or numbness in the forehead and scalp, which are temporary and will subside during the recovery period.

Preparation for Surgery

Initial Consultation: A thorough consultation with your surgeon is essential to discuss your goals, evaluate your facial anatomy, and determine the best approach for you.

Medical Evaluation: You will undergo a medical evaluation, which may include a blood test or EKG, to ensure you are in good health for surgery.

Medication Guidelines: Your surgeon will provide a list of medications, supplements, and herbal drugs to avoid at least seven days before surgery, as some can increase the risk of bleeding.

Lifestyle Adjustments: You will be instructed to stop smoking and consuming alcohol for a specified period before the procedure to promote better healing.

Day of Surgery: Arrive with a clean face and hair, wear comfortable button-front clothing, and follow all fasting instructions. Arrange for someone to drive you home.

Step-by-Step Surgical Process

Endoscopic Brow Lift:

  1. Anesthesia: IV sedation or general anesthesia is administered.
  2. Incisions: Small, short incisions are made behind the hairline.
  3. Visualization: An endoscope is inserted to provide a clear, magnified view of the underlying muscles and tissues.
  4. Tissue Adjustment: The forehead tissue is carefully lifted, and the muscles are adjusted to correct frown lines and wrinkles.
  5. Fixation: The brow is secured in its new, elevated position using sutures or an Endotine device.
  6. Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures or clips, and dressings are applied.

Coronal Brow Lift:

  1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered.
  2. Incision: A single, long incision is made from ear to ear across the top of the scalp, hidden within the hair.
  3. Lifting: The forehead skin is lifted, and the underlying muscles and tissues are repositioned.
  4. Excision: Excess skin is removed to achieve the desired tightening and lifting effect.
  5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Differences Between Endoscopic and Coronal Brow Lifts

Feature

Endoscopic Brow Lift

Coronal Brow Lift

Invasiveness

Minimally invasive

More extensive/invasive

Incisions

3-5 small incisions in the hairline

1 long incision from ear to ear across the scalp

Recovery

Shorter recovery time, less bruising/swelling

Longer recovery time, more significant swelling/bruising

Scarring

Minimal, hidden within the hairline

Longer, but well-hidden within the hairline

Hairline Impact

Minimal to no impact on the hairline

Can raise the hairline, making the forehead appear longer

Ideal Candidate

Mild to moderate brow drooping, hairline is a concern

Severe brow drooping, significant skin laxity, not concerned about hairline

A Good Candidate for an Endoscopic Brow Lift

Mild to moderate brow drooping

Deep horizontal forehead lines

Frown lines (glabellar lines) between the eyebrows

Realistic expectations

Consultation with the surgeon

  • Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with our expert surgeon to achieve your desired appearance.
  • The surgeon will examine your facial structure, skin quality, brow position, and the extent of forehead aging.
  • Endoscopic Brow lift is typically performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia.

Pre-Operative and Post-Operative Care for Endoscopic Brow Lift

     Pre-operative Care

  • Follow all medication guidelines provided by your surgeon.
  • Abstain from smoking and alcohol as instructed.
  • Adhere to fasting instructions.

     Post-operative Care

  • Our dedicated nursing staff will monitor you in our recovery area. You will be provided with specific post-operative instructions.
  • Small dressings will be applied to the incision sites.
  • Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort.
  • Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress.

Recovery Timeline 

  • First Week: Swelling and bruising will be most noticeable during the first few days.
  • Weeks 2-4: Still experience some mild swelling and numbness or tingling sensations in the scalp, which is normal as nerves heal. Strenuous activities can usually be gradually resumed.
  • Final Result: The final results will become more apparent over several months.

Potential Risks

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Poor wound healing or scarring
  • Temporary or permanent numbness or itching in the forehead or scalp
  • Hair loss along the incision sites (usually temporary)

Benefits 

  • Elevated brow position for a more youthful and alert appearance.
  • Minimally invasive technique
  • Shorter recovery time
  • Improved self-confidence
  • Long-lasting results

FAQ

The surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

When can I wash my hair after an endoscopic brow lift?

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions, usually, you can gently wash your hair within a few days after the procedure.

Some discomfort, tightness, and swelling are expected, but significant pain is uncommon and can be managed effectively with prescribed pain medication.

Trust WIH International Hospital to deliver safe, natural, and beautifully balanced results.