A forehead lift, also sometimes referred to as a brow lift, is designed elevate the brow, which can address certain types of aesthetic concerns that affect the upper areas of the face, including the upper eye regions. Our specialist plastic surgeon, Dr Vlad Milovic, is experienced in two advanced brow lift methods:
The Classic Brow Lift is performed with one continuous incision that starts at the level of the ears and continues around the hairline.
The Endoscopic Brow Lift involves significantly smaller cuts, and anchor sutures are used to secure the tissue.
Risks of Surgery
All surgical procedures carry risks and the potential for complications. While Dr. Milovic is extensively trained and experienced with a comprehensive array of plastic surgery procedures and utilizes advanced techniques to help mitigate those risks, patients considering treatment should always be fully aware of them beforehand. Dr. Milovic will go over all risks and potential complications associated with the procedure during the initial consultation, and we are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Risks of this procedure include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Excessive bleeding
- Pain/discomfort
- Nerve damage
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Complications relating to anaesthesia
- Seroma (a growth/lump near the surgery site that may become infectious)
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
- Death
- Poor wound healing
- Potential for an additional surgery
- Blood clots
- An elevated hairline
- Dry/irritated eyes
- Facial asymmetry
- Injury to the facial nerves, which may be accompanied by weakness
- Hair loss at or near the incision sites
- Numbness or other skin sensation changes in the treatment area
- Thrombosis that may lead to a pulmonary embolism
- Loss of skin
There are always risks with any surgery and Dr Milovic will discuss your expectations and goals along with any possible risks prior to the surgery being performed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it right for me?
Surgery is a very personal decision and you should have realistic goals and expectations before undergoing the procedure. Dr Milovic will examine your face during your initial consultation and discuss how a forehead/brow lift can possibly achieve an improvement and meet your goals and expectations. If you are in good health and a non-smoker (or you are prepared to give up smoking for at least six weeks prior to and after surgery) you may be a suitable candidate for surgery.
Will I need anaesthesia?
Forehead/brow lift surgery is typically done under general anaesthesia. Dr Milovic will engage the services of a qualified anaesthetist from the Royal Australian and NZ College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) to perform your sedation or general anaesthesia. For your safety, please make sure you provide an up-to-date list of your allergies and medications before the surgery.
Will I have scarring?
As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr Milovic will choose the incision option that will potentially minimise scarring. If scarring is a concern for you after surgery, Dr Milovic will provide you with a scar treatment plan to possibly expedite the healing of your scars. There are several treatment options, including silicone gel and laser.
Where will the surgery take place?
Depending upon your general health and the extent of the procedure, forehead/brow lift surgery is typically performed as a day procedure. Dr Milovic will only perform your forehead/brow lift surgery in an accredited operating facility. The procedure can take between one to three hours to complete, depending on which incision option is used.
What is the recovery period after forehead/brow lift?
The recovery period for forehead/brow lift surgery will vary from patient to patient, but generally you will not be able to work for at least one to two weeks post-surgery. As soon as the bandages have been removed, which is normally within one to two days, you can shower and wash your hair. Light exercise may be resumed within four to five weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for six to eight weeks. You will be given post-surgery instructions to follow and if you have any questions, please speak to Dr Milovic and/or his practice nurse.