Endoscopic Browlift
The brow and forehead areas are often the first to show signs of aging. Sun, wind and gravitational forces cause the skin to lose its elasticity leading to wrinkling and a perceived heaviness in this region of the face. A forehead or brow lift is one option for minimizing the effects of these changes on your appearance. Dr. Rawnsley performs this procedure by tightening the skin in the forehead region, thus reducing the amount of horizontal wrinkling in the forehead region and minimizing the appearance of "drooping brows." In some cases, the surgeon may remove or weaken a portion of the muscles that form vertical wrinkles caused by squinting and frowning. The goal of surgery is a smoother, more youthful appearance. While the average age range for this procedure is between the ages of forty and sixty-five, it can occasionally be considered at an earlier age for patients with inherited heaviness of the brow.
Because of advances in medical technology, endoscopic techniques are now available. These new techniques greatly minimize the length and number of incision as well as scar visibility. Using the technique, the surgeon makes several small incisions immediately behind the hairline. The endoscope is then utilized to remove the muscles that create the wrinkles in this region. Dr. Rawnsley then tightens the forehead and lifts the eyebrows to reduce their sagging appearance.
For approximately 7 to 10 days following endoscopic browlift surgery there will be some swelling and occasionally bruising in the forehead, cheek, and eye region. You will be instructed to use cold compresses and keep your head elevated to reduce swelling after surgery. With the healing process, you will most likely experience some temporary numbness and itching. These conditions will improve gradually with time. Bandages are removed one to three days following surgery and suture removal occurs seven to ten days later. Most patients are fully recovered two weeks following surgery, however, it is generally wise to avoid strenuous activity for a slightly longer period.
