A browlift, or forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that smoothes out the forehead, while raising the upper eyelids and reducing frown lines. The procedure is one of the least complicated and least painful of all cosmetic surgeries. A forehead lift erases many of the effects of aging, leaving you with a smoother, more youthful looking appearance.

The Surgery

The surgeon begins by making an incision at the level of the ear and extending it upward and across the forehead. The incisions are made as close to the hairline as possible in order to minimize the visibility of scars. In the case of bald patients, a mid-scalp incision may be the best option. Once the incision is made, the surgeon removes the appropriate muscle and tissue. The skin is then stitched or clipped back into place (excess skin is trimmed away) and gauze padding or an elastic bandage is applied. The surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, using a local anesthesia and mild sedative.

After the Surgery

To minimize postoperative swelling, your surgeon will advise you to keep your head elevated for several days. Although some bruising and swelling usually occurs, it will be greatly reduced within a week's time. The bandages are removed after a day or two while stitches generally come out within the first two weeks. Patients can expect to return to work in a week to ten day's time.

Health Concerns

As with any cosmetic surgical procedure, complications are rare, but include infection and a reaction to the anesthesia. You may experience some numbness or temporary discomfort following the surgery, although medication alleviates much of this. Patients may also lose some hair near the incision, which may or may not grow back. You may also experience difficulty raising your eyebrows or wrinkling your forehead. Although invasive surgery presents a risk of scarring, the surgeon makes every effort to minimize its visibility. To maximize the success of surgery and reduce the risk of complications, always follow your doctor's instructions for surgical preparation and postoperative care.