Changes to the brow as we age, such as loss of brow arch, sagging upper eyelid skin as descent of the brows can be offset with a brow or mini brow lift. While lasers, peels, resurfacing and freezers such as Botox can non-surgically address the wrinkling of foreheads, none of these treat the sagging of skin, underling muscle and tissue. Often patients who do not require a full brow lift opt for a mini-brow lift to minimally lift the brows and/or balance uneven brows. This is a great technique to improve the arch in patients with age-related brow flattening.
Who Is a Candidate for a Mini Brow Lift?
The symptoms that motivate individuals to get a brow lift are common signs of aging such as:
- Crow’s feet
- Horizontal lines and furrows
- Glabella or “11” creases
- Drooping or descended brows
- Asymmetric brows (don’t match)
- Flattened or distorted shaped brows
What does the mini-brow lift involve?
The mini brow lift is also known as the endoscopic brow lift, restores the problem by making small hidden scalp incisions and endoscopically releasing the muscles responsible for frowning while simultaneously lifting the brows. The effect is an overall rejuvenation of the forehead creating a younger and fresher appearance. The area above the eyes is rejuvenated, drooping skin is lifted and the eyebrow arch is restored. Along with this is the smoothing out of wrinkles. The mini brow lift is perfect for the patient who has changes to the forehead and brow that are not extreme. In the mini brow lift tiny incisions are made to lift the underlying tissues off the forehead bone. The frowning muscles are released and the brow is lifted into the desired position and set into place. The incisions are small, heal quickly and promote a natural look. You may experience some numbness and itching in the days following your mini brow lift, but this will go away over time. A wrap dressing is carefully removed the day after your procedure, and the sutures come out seven to ten days later. Patients can typically resume normal activities in about two weeks.
FAQ:
What does recovery from a mini brow lift look like?
Some normal bruising and swelling will follow for about 7-10 days following your brow lift, so the use of cold compresses is recommended for faster healing. You may experience some numbness and itching in the days following your forehead lift as well, but this will go away over time. A wrap dressing is carefully removed the day after your procedure, and the sutures come out 7-10 days later. Patients can typically resume normal activities in about two weeks.
When can I go back to work?
Work restrictions after a mini brow lift surgery are usually in place for about two weeks post op. There may still be some initial swelling after that for another week or so but we allow our patients to return to work in two weeks. It will depend on your comfort level going back to work with some mild swelling after week two.
Will the mini-brow lift make dramatic changes?
This question can only be answered on an individual basis. As a board certified facial plastic surgeon I can evaluate your needs and from there we can manage expectations accordingly.
Is the mini-brow lift for you? Call our office today and set up a consult with Dr. Honrado to discuss all of your cosmetic surgery needs. (310) 286-0043