Brow lift is a surgical procedure to raise the eyebrows and forehead. It is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries performed today.
A brow lift can correct droopy eyebrows caused by aging, which can make you look older than your age. A brow lift can also help to correct sagging skin in the upper eyelid region that is not helped with Botox or fillers alone.
The procedure helps to give a more youthful appearance to the face.
The procedure removes excess skin from above the eyelids and lifts some of it so that it covers less of the forehead. The hairline is usually trimmed slightly as well, but this depends on how much of a difference is needed between forehead and scalp hair.
Here are some steps that you can take before your surgery:
Choose an experienced surgeon
If you’re considering a brow lift, it’s important to choose an experienced surgeon who has performed many of these procedures in the past. A board-certified facial plastic surgeon is qualified to perform this procedure and should have extensive training in cosmetic surgery procedures along with experience performing both minor and major cosmetic procedures.
Discuss your goals for brow lift with a surgeon
The first step in deciding whether you need a brow lift is to discuss your goals with your surgeon. Your surgeon will be able to provide the most accurate assessment based on what you want out of the procedure. In addition, be sure to discuss any allergies or medical conditions that might affect your recovery process.
Don’t be pressured into making a decision
It’s important not to make any rash decisions about whether or not you should get a brow lift. You should take as much time as possible before deciding whether this is something that’s right for you or not. If you feel pressured into making a decision, consider meeting with another doctor or speaking with other patients who have had similar procedures done before making your final choice.
Discuss all of your medications with your surgeon.
Some medications promote blood clotting or may increase bleeding, so it’s important to discuss any medications you’re taking with your surgeon. It’s also important to be honest about any allergies or previous reactions to anesthesia.
Stop taking blood thinners.
Blood thinners include warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin. It’s important to avoid these medications before surgery, because they can increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. If you have been taking blood thinners, make sure your doctor knows about it before your surgery.
Learn about the procedure.
Brow lifts are typically done on an outpatient basis, which means they take place in a hospital or surgery center rather than an inpatient facility. The operation takes about two hours and involves making small incisions along the hairline, removing excess skin and fat from your forehead and repositioning your facial muscles. You can expect bruising, swelling and numbness around your eyes during recovery but will likely return to normal activity within a week or so after surgery.
Clean your house.
It’s important to clean all of the rooms in your house before guests arrive. If you’re planning a party, make sure there’s plenty of food and drinks available. If you’re having surgery, it’s best if you stay in bed for two days following the procedure.
Quit smoking.
Smoking increases your risk for infection and slows healing after surgery. If you smoke, plan ahead to quit at least six weeks before your surgery date to allow time for your body to recover from quitting smoking before undergoing surgery.
Avoid alcohol
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause dryness of the skin and make you more prone to infection. It also reduces blood supply to the tissues, which may result in swelling or bruising after the procedure. To avoid these problems, it’s better to stop drinking alcohol at least two weeks before your appointment with your surgeon.
Do not eat or drink anything the night before your surgery.
This includes water, gum and other drinks. You will be given a medication that causes nausea and vomiting to prevent you from eating or drinking until after the surgery has taken place.
Do not drink coffee, tea or any other caffeinated beverages
Caffeine can increase your blood pressure and heart rate, which may make you feel anxious or jittery during your procedure. It also increases the risk of bleeding during surgery and may prevent you from receiving medications that keep blood clotting.
Get your blood pressure under control
If you have high blood pressure or uncontrolled blood sugar, it may be difficult to get an accurate reading of your blood pressure before your surgery. Having an inaccurate reading could result in too much bleeding during or after the procedure, which can be dangerous.
Take time off from work
If you have a job where the quality of your work depends on your ability to concentrate, it’s important that you take time off from work before and after your procedure. This will help reduce stress and allow you time to recover from any complications that may arise during or after surgery.
Don’t wear heavy makeup or lotion.
Your face will be wrapped tightly for several days following your brow lift, so stop using makeup with heavy coverage on your face at least two weeks before the surgery. Also avoid wearing any lotion or moisturizer on your face during this time.
Prepare your home.
You’re going to need to stay home for a few days after the procedure, so make sure you have everything you need before surgery. For example, if you have pets at home, hire someone to look after them or find a friend or relative who can bring them over. If you work from home, make sure your boss knows about your upcoming surgery and that they understand why it may be hard for you to get back into the office right away. And don’t forget to cancel all of your appointments during this time.
Stay Hydrated
It is essential that you stay hydrated during your recovery period because this will help prevent dryness around your eyes and mouth, which can lead to discomfort or even infection. Drink plenty of water throughout the day for best results.
Limit sun exposure.
If you’re planning on having a brow lift, make sure you protect your face from the sun before your procedure. Exposing your face to UV rays can increase your chance of scarring and other complications after surgery.
