Endoscopic & Open Brow Lifts

Introduction
Browlift can be achieved by a variety of techniques, and the indications for each depend upon the patient and whether or not combination procedures are being performed at the same time. Browlift elevates the brow and removes unwanted wrinkles in the transverse plane between the brow and hairline. Browlift can also effectively remove vertical lines above the nose and between the eyebrows. Browlift also reduces symptoms of heaviness and tiredness at the end of the day, and can lift the troublesome brow droop that obstructs vision in many susceptible individuals. Modern browlift techniques use minimal access, or ‘keyhole’ surgery, where incisions are made behind the hairline in the scalp and temple. ‘Open’ traditional browlift still has its indications, is usually combined with various facelifting techniques, and involves a longer scar within, or just in front of the hairline. Endoscopic, minimal incision, browlift has a very high satisfaction rate and may be combined with other techniques such as facelift and blepharoplasty.

Procedure
The scars of the ‘endobrow’ are behind the hairline in the temple, and adjacent to the midline. From here a keyhole camera guides the surgeon to elevate the brow at the forehead, and weaken the muscles that cause brow and high nasal wrinkles. The brow can be elevated in a pleasing upcurve that many have likened to the Audrey Hepburn – look! The elevated brow is fixed in a variety of ways, including the use of buried dissolving sutures looped though the clients own bone under the scalp for secure, low profile, fixation.

Recovery
Return to light work is acceptable after 7-10 days, but vigorous activity is better avoided for the six weeks that it takes for the brow to heal in its elevated position. Light bruising and swelling is common around the lower forehead and eyelids. The sutures in the scalp are dissolving and fall out in the shower. Hairdressing appointments should be avoided for 6 weeks, and the gentle use of a hairdryer and finger drying is preferable to towel dry for this period of time postoperatively.