Gravity and aging can result in frown lines, wrinkling across the forehead, and increasing heaviness of the eyebrows. Even people in their mid- thirties may have faces that look older than their years. A brow-lift restores a more youthful, refreshed look to the area above the eyes.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A BROW LIFT?
A gentle Brow Lift is usually performed in patients in the 35-65 age range to minimize the visible effects of aging. This procedure can help to rejuvenate the area between the upper eyelid and the brow. It lifts the brow into a position that is more pleasing and enhances the overall appearance of the eyes.
Sometimes patients who believe they need upper eyelid surgery find that a brow lift better meets their surgical goals. Additionally, for some patients, attending to both the eyelids and the brow at the same time can provide a more harmonious aesthetic outcome. At your initial consultation, our team perform a detailed evaluation of your brow and eyelid function to offer non-surgical and/or surgical options to enhance the appearance of your mid-face.
HOW IS SURGICAL BROWPEXY PERFORMED?
There are two types of browpexy – internal and external. Both procedures are regarded as minimally invasive. The mini brow lift is scarless or leave a very small incision mark that fades with time and application of adjuvant therapies.
In this surgery, one-two sutures are used to stabilize the central and outer portions of the brow to give a more youthful look the the eye area. Browpexy can be used to treated a drooping of the outer portion of the brow and reduce the amount of any overhanging eyelid skin on the outer aspect of the eye.
An internal browpexy is usually performed along with an upper eyelid blepharoplasty or ptosis surgery such that the same incision can be used for lifting the eyebrow. This means that no additional scars are created and the brow is secured to a higher and more pleasing position through an internal approach.
An external browpexy makes a small incision that is less than 1 cm wide at the eyebrow hairs or just above.The brow is then sutured to a higher position onto the bone underneath.
With both techniques your oculoplastic surgeon will compare both brows to ensure they are as symmetrical as possible before completing the procedure.
ARE THERE ANY NON-SURGICAL OPTIONS TO ACHIEVE A GENTLE BROW LIFT?
Yes, not all patients need surgery to achieve a gentle brow lift. For those who would like to attempt a minimally invasive approach, Botox or laser skin tightening can be attempted. During your consultation, Dr Bedi will review your options with you and provide you guidance on the scope of each procedure.
HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY TIME FOLLOWING SURGERY?
Recovery following browpexy is similar to the recovery following standard eyelid surgery. There may be swelling and bruising that can last for about two weeks although some people may take longer. Some people experience some numbness to the eyelid and brow that should resolve with time. A tight sensation is common following a browpexy and usually lasts for about two months as the area heals. The sutures used are dissolvable and this sensation should settle with time. Patients are advised to take a week off work following the surgery and avoid any strenuous exercise for 2-4 weeks.
WHEN CAN I EXPECT TO SEE THE RESULTS OF MY MIINI BROW LIFT?
The results of an internal or external browpexy are not immediate as the swelling and bruising can mask the final outcome. The results will become more obvious once the swelling starts to settle showing a more pleasing look to the eyelid and brow region on the face. As the incisions in an internal browpexy are in the natural eyelid crease the scar is usually hidden and there are no additional scars. The results typically last for 2-5 years and possibly even longer as this varies from person to person.
Factors that influence how long the results last for include how often you contract your eyebrows and foreheads with your natural expressions, your lifestyle habits, and the application of ongoing maintenance therapies that help to offset the impact of aging.
ARE THERE ANY LIMITATION OF MINI BROW LIFT?
- Browpexy provides a small lift and is not suitable for severe brow droop.
- It only treats the area between the upper eyelid and eyebrow and does not correct any deep forehead furrows.