A Brow Lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the forehead, the brow area, and the area around the eyes. The Brow Lift involves adjusting and tightening the soft tissues of the forehead to restore a more youthful contour to your forehead skin, upper eyelids, and eyebrows.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan recommends Brow lift surgery for both men and women experiencing signs of ageing in the forehead and brow region, such as sagging eyebrows, deep furrows between the eyes, and horizontal forehead lines.
In today’s fast-paced world, where first impressions often matter, many of us are looking for ways to enhance our appearance and feel better about how we present ourselves. A Brow Lift, or Forehead Lift, is a subtle yet effective way to achieve this.
General
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6 months
Benefits of the Brow Lift Procedure
A Brow Lift offers a range of benefits that can enhance your facial appearance. Some of the key advantages, include;
- Reduces Horizontal Forehead Wrinkles: One of the primary benefits of a Brow Lift is the reduction of horizontal lines across your forehead. These lines often give the impression of ageing or stress. By smoothing out these wrinkles, your forehead appears calmer and more relaxed, offering a fresher aspect to your face.
- Minimises Frown Lines Between the Eyebrows: Frown lines, or the vertical creases between your eyebrows, can make you look worried or stern even when you’re not. A Brow Lift eases these lines, softening your expression and making you appear more approachable and at ease.
- Improves Lines on the Bridge of the Nose: Lines that appear on the bridge of the nose, often extending to the brow area, are also addressed in a Brow Lift. This results in a smoother transition between your nose and forehead, contributing to a more harmonious facial balance.
- Lifts Sagging Brows: Drooping eyebrows can shadow your eyes, making you look tired or older: By lifting the brows, a brow lift opens up the eye area, giving you a more refreshed and attentive look.
- Repositions the Eyebrows: The position of your eyebrows plays a significant role in your overall facial expression: Post-surgery, your eyebrows are placed in a position that is more natural and alert, enhancing the expressiveness of your eyes.
- Enhances Overall Facial Appearance: Beyond improving specific areas, a Brow Lift enhances the overall look of your face. It harmonises various facial features, contributing to a more balanced and pleasing appearance.
- Long-Lasting Results: Unlike non-surgical treatments that need regular upkeep, a Brow Lift offers long-term results. This means you can enjoy your rejuvenated look for several years, without the need for frequent touch-ups.
Can a Brow Lift Help You?
If you’re considering a Brow Lift, it’s important to know if you’re a suitable candidate for surgery.
Generally, individuals who benefit most from a Brow Lift are those experiencing sagging brows or noticeable lines between their eyes. These physical changes can often make you look tired, worried, or even upset, even when you’re not.
You’re likely a good fit for this procedure if your drooping brow area affects your facial expressions, making you appear less vibrant or approachable than you feel.
Health-wise, ideal candidates are those in good physical health. This means you don’t have any major health issues that could affect your surgery or recovery. Being a non-smoker is also key, as smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
Equally important is your mental and emotional outlook. If you’re considering a brow lift, you should have a positive attitude and realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve. It’s about improving your appearance in a way that’s natural and harmonious with your overall facial structure, not about completely altering how you look.
Five Types of Brow Lift Procedures
Endoscopic Brow Lift
- Involves making small incisions within the hairline.
- A tiny camera and specialised instruments are used to view and adjust the underlying tissues.
- It’s a minimally invasive procedure, resulting in less scarring and a quicker recovery.
- Ideal for moderate brow lifting, especially when there’s not much skin excess.
Coronal Brow Lift
- Requires a larger incision, usually from one ear to the other, across the top of the head.
- This allows for significant lifting of the entire forehead and brow area.
- It’s more extensive, offering substantial changes in brow position and the appearance of forehead wrinkles.
- Recovery time is generally longer, and there’s more potential for scarring.
Hairline Brow Lift
- The incision is made at the top of the forehead, along the hairline.
- Suitable for individuals with a high forehead, as it prevents raising the hairline further.
- Effective in lifting both the brow and the forehead, improving brow position and forehead lines.
- This lift can result in a more visible scar but can be concealed with hair styling.
Temporal Brow Lift
- Focuses on the outer part of the brows, specifically targeting sagging in this area.
- Small incisions are made above the temples, hidden within the hairline.
- It provides a subtle lift, making it ideal for those who need slight corrections to the brow’s outer part.
- The procedure is less invasive, with minimal scarring and a shorter recovery period.
Direct Brow Lift
- Incisions are made directly above the eyebrows, allowing for precise adjustments.
- This method is particularly useful for correcting asymmetry or significant drooping.
- It offers more control over the final brow position and shape.
- The scarring is more noticeable but can be masked depending on the brow’s natural shape and position.
How is a Brow Lift Surgery Performed?
Understanding how the Brow Lift procedure is carried out can help you feel more prepared and informed about what to expect. The process varies slightly depending on the technique used, but generally, it follows these steps:
- Preparation: Before the surgery, you’ll have a detailed discussion with Anthony about your goals and the best approach for you. You’ll receive instructions on how to prepare, including guidelines on eating, drinking, and medication adjustments.
- Anaesthesia: Brow Lifts are performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep during the procedure. In some cases, local anaesthesia with sedation might be used, especially for less invasive techniques.
- Making the Incisions: The location and length of the incisions depend on the type of Brow Lift being performed. In an Endoscopic Brow Lift, several small incisions are made just behind the hairline. For a Coronal Lift, a longer incision is made across the top of the head, hidden within the hair. In a Hairline Lift, the incision is made at the front of the hairline.
- Adjusting Tissues and Muscles: Once the incisions are made, Anthony carefully lifts the forehead skin and adjusts the underlying tissues and muscles. This step is crucial for correcting the sagging brow and smoothing out wrinkles. Excess tissue may be removed, and the muscles may be altered to soften frown lines and forehead creases.
- Closing the Incisions: After reshaping the brow area, the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical clips. This helps minimise scarring and ensures a smooth, natural-looking lift.
- Recovery: The procedure usually takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. After the surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where your vitals are monitored as you wake up from anaesthesia. You can usually go home on the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you.
- Follow-Up: Postoperative care is important for a smooth recovery. You’ll receive instructions on how to care for the surgical site, medications to take for pain and to reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow up with Anthony.
When you’re considering a Brow Lift, it’s important to understand the different types available, as each is tailored to meet specific needs and concerns.
The different types of lifts have specific indications and outcomes. The choice depends on individual factors like the extent of sagging, skin elasticity, forehead size, and personal aesthetic goals.
Consulting with Anthony is crucial to determine the most suitable type of lift for your needs, ensuring results that enhance your facial appearance while maintaining a natural look.
Recovery after a Brow Lift Procedure
Recovery after a Brow Lift procedure varies depending on the specific technique used and individual healing factors. However, here is a general overview of what to expect during the recovery process:
Immediate Postoperative Period
- After Brow Lift surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area until you are fully awake and stable. You may experience some discomfort, swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate pain around the forehead and eyebrows.
- Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.
- Cold compresses can also help reduce swelling and bruising.
Dressing and Bandages
- Your forehead may be wrapped in bandages or a dressing immediately after surgery to protect the incision sites and minimise swelling.
- Your surgeon will provide instructions on when to remove the dressings and how to care for the incisions.
Activity Restrictions
- It’s essential to rest and avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending forward during the initial recovery period.
- Most patients can resume light activities within a few days but should avoid vigorous exercise and activities that could strain the forehead muscles.
Medication and Eye Drops
- Take any prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs, as directed by your surgeon to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- If your surgeon recommends eye drops or ointments to keep the eyes moist and prevent dryness, use them as instructed.
Follow-Up Appointments
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
- Your surgeon will examine your forehead, remove any sutures if necessary, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
Swelling and Bruising
- Swelling and bruising around the forehead and eyebrows are common after a Brow Lift and typically peak within the first few days before gradually subsiding.
- Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help reduce swelling and bruising.
Hair Care
- If your surgeon made incisions within the hairline, you may need to be gentle when washing your hair to avoid disrupting the incisions. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when it’s safe to shampoo and style your hair.
Resuming Normal Activities
- Most patients can return to work and resume normal activities within 7 to 10 days, depending on the extent of surgery and individual recovery progress.
- It’s essential to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard during the recovery period.
Sun Protection
- Protect your forehead from sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and applying sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Sun exposure can increase swelling and prolong the healing process.
Be Patient
- Remember that healing takes time, and it’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising during the recovery period.
- Be patient with your body and follow your surgeon’s recommendations for a smoother recovery.
By following these guidelines and closely adhering to your surgeon’s instructions, you can promote a smoother recovery and achieve optimal results from a Brow Lift procedure. If you have any questions or concerns during the recovery process, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon for guidance and support.
How Much Is Brow Lift Surgery in the UK?
The total cost of Brow Lift surgery in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the specific type of Brow Lift procedure chosen, the surgeon’s experience and expertise and any additional services or procedures included in the treatment plan.
On average, the cost of Brow Lift surgery in the UK typically ranges from £3,000 to £7,000 or more. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost may vary based on individual circumstances and specific requirements.
To obtain an accurate price quote for brow lift surgery tailored to your needs, it’s recommended to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and provide you with a personalized treatment plan, including a detailed cost breakdown.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
How long does recovery from a Brow Lift take?
Recovery time can vary, but most people can return to normal activities within 2 weeks post-surgery. Initial swelling and bruising are common, which subside within the first two weeks.
Full recovery, including the complete settling of tissues and fading of scars, may take several months.
What are the risks associated with Brow Lift surgery?
Brow lift surgery, also known as Forehead Lift surgery, is generally considered safe, but like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks and complications. It’s important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure. Some common risks and complications associated with Brow Lift surgery, include:
Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision sites following surgery. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat infections.
Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can lead to hematoma formation, which may require drainage to resolve.
Scarring: While efforts are made to minimise scarring, Brow Lift surgery involves incisions, which can result in visible scars. Scarring may be more noticeable in some individuals, particularly those with a tendency to form keloid or hypertrophic scars.
Nerve Damage: Brow Lift surgery involves manipulation of facial nerves, which carries a risk of nerve damage. Nerve damage can result in temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the forehead or scalp area.
Hair Loss: Brow Lift surgery can sometimes cause temporary or permanent hair loss around the incision sites. This is more common with certain Brow Lift techniques, such as the Coronal Brow Lift.
Eyebrow Asymmetry: Despite the surgeon’s best efforts, there is a risk of asymmetry between the two eyebrows following surgery. Additional surgery may be required to correct asymmetry if it occurs.
Changes in Hairline: Certain techniques may alter the position of the hairline, leading to changes in hair growth patterns or hairline position. This risk is higher with techniques that involve removing skin or tissue from the forehead.
Eye Problems: Brow Lift surgery can sometimes affect eye function, leading to dry eyes, difficulty closing the eyes completely (lagophthalmos), or changes in eyelid position (ectropion or ptosis). These complications are rare but require prompt treatment if they occur.
Anesthesia Risks: Risks associated with anesthesia, including allergic reactions, respiratory complications, and cardiovascular events, can occur during or after surgery.
Unsatisfactory Results: Despite the surgeon’s efforts, some individuals may be dissatisfied with the aesthetic outcome of surgery. Additional surgery or revision procedures may be necessary to achieve the desired results.
It’s essential to discuss these risks and complications with your surgeon and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions carefully to minimise the likelihood of complications and promote a smooth recovery.
If you have any questions or concerns about Brow Lift surgery, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your surgeon.
It’s important to discuss these potential risks with Anthony during your consultations to fully understand them.
Medical References about Brow Lift
- Brow lift – Mayo Clinic
- Brow lift – Cleveland Clinic
- Forehead Lift – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Cosmetic Procedures and the Brow Lift – WebMD
- Brow Lift Surgery Information – ABCS
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
Having always suffered with slightly ‘hooded’ or droopy eyelids, I bit the bullet in September and had an Upper Blepharoplasty procedure; basically, the excess eyelid skin (roughly 13mm) was removed.
Mr MacQuillan put me at ease immediately, with his friendly, approachable manner. I didn’t feel at all rushed during the consultation, and he was happy to answer countless questions. He was very open and direct in discussing the procedure and potential outcome. I chose to have it done under local anaesthetic, and was literally home having tea and watching TV a few hours later!
It’s absolutely one of the best decisions I’ve made. I no longer feel tired all the time due to heavy eyelids, my peripheral vision has improved and I find driving at night much easier. An added bonus is that I look much brighter, I no longer have to keep raising my eyebrows to open my eyes, which conversely seems to have improved the frequency of migraine.
Additionally, family and friends have said it really opens my eyes/face and makes me look younger – something I’m definitely not complaining about!
Eyelid Surgery
Had my surgery done at St Josephs, Mr MacQuillan explained everything to me at my first consultation, he discussed exactly what I was expecting to achieve and talked me through it at a relaxed pace, I didn’t feel like I had to make my decision there and then as there was no pressure what so ever. I understood everything and decided to go ahead. I recovered really quickly and was delighted with the results.
Upper Blepharoplasty 59 Year Old Female – United Kingdom
From the initial consultation through to the after care Mr MacQuillan remained consistently professional, approachable and extremely confident that he could make a huge difference to my eyelids and he has certainly achieved that beyond my expectations! I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Mr MacQuillan to anyone thinking of having this procedure done.
Blepharoplasty – Bristol, GB
After researching cosmetic surgery providers in my area, I made an appointment with Anthony MacQuillan at the Spire Hospital in Bristol.
Anthony thoroughly discussed the options available to me to enable me to carefully consider my choices and be in a position to make an informed decision with no pressure.
A very professional service from start to finish with continued aftercare, undertaken by a caring, approachable and experienced surgeon.
I am delighted with the results and would have no hesitation in recommending Anthony MacQuillan to anyone considering a cosmetic procedure.
New Eyelids I’ve Always Dreamed of ! Bristol, GB
I was very embarrassed about my wrinkled and baggy upper eyelids to the extent I didn’t like being close up to people as I thought they would notice straight away.
I am so pleased that I chose Mr MacQuillan from the list of surgeons I was given.
He is one of the kindest, most professional people I have ever met. I was very nervous and immediately put at ease. The procedures were explained to me in great detail, together with any possible complications that could occur. Mr MacQuillan was so patient and understanding with all my indecisions and just let me make up my own mind in my own time and reassured me that that was indeed the correct decision for me. I had three appointments before my op, all of which were followed up immediately by letters from Mr MacQuillan detailing in full everything we had discussed so I had written confirmation of all my queries which was so useful as I’d forgotten most of it by the time I got home!
I was so well looked after during my overnight stay in hospital and constantly put at ease by all the staff who also rated Mr MacQuillan very highly indeed. He visited me just before the op to reassure me again and twice afterwards to make sure I was OK and even showed me a photo he took for me on his phone.
I am thrilled with the results and cannot thank Mr MacQuillan enough for all he has done for me. Margaret and Heather have also been so kind and patient with me.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Mr MacQuillan to anyone considering surgery.
I am also impressed with the follow up care to ensure I am fully satisfied with the results and will be looked after for 5 years!
Why Choose Anthony MacQuillan for Your Facial Procedure
Anthony’s dedication to artistry, precision, and individualised care ensures that your facial procedure will be tailored to meet your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Our clinic combines the latest surgical techniques with a compassionate approach to patient care, ensuring a supportive and reassuring experience from consultation through recovery.
Whether you’re seeking subtle enhancements or a more significant transformation, we are here to guide you towards achieving a refreshed, natural-looking beauty that aligns with your personal vision.
To learn more about how our facial procedures can help you achieve the look you desire, or to schedule a consultation with Anthony, please contact us today.
