Temporal/Brow Lift
Drooping eyebrows can make even the happiest person look angry and the most well-rested person look exhausted. This effect only amplifies during aging, as brow tissues lose their springiness and sag above the eyes.
A brow lift, also known as a temporal lift, will return eyebrows to their expressive youthful state.
How Brow Lifts Work
A temporal/brow lift involves repositioning eyebrow tissues to undo sagging, as well as creating an appealing shape for the brow line.
For women and men with full heads of hair, surgical incisions will be placed around the hairline so that scars are ultimately hidden within the hair. For patients with receded hairlines, incisions sit directly above the eyebrow or within forehead wrinkles. In select patients, minimally invasive surgical techniques will ensure inconspicuous scars, along with small implants to maintain the position of the brow tissues as they heal.
A successful brow lift hinges on attention to the surrounding facial structure.
Dr. Schmidt will elevate the brows to a specific point based on how it will impact the eyelids underneath and whether the patient seeks a masculine or feminine appearance.
For women, the restructured eyebrow will sit just above the bone ridge over the eyes; for men, it will rest level with the bone ridge.
Surgery And Recovery
A brow lift generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete when performed in isolation. However, many patients find it is most efficient and cost-effective to get a brow lift in conjunction with other facelift procedures such as a forehead lift. A short extension of the incision along the hairline allows for a brow lift to complement a forehead lift.
If a brow lift is right for you, plan for about three weeks of recovery time. You will wear a compressive head wrap for the first 24 hours and you should refrain from physical activity for the first postoperative week. During the second week, you can increase activity slightly. Most exercise can resume after the third week.
Temporal Brow Lift FAQs
What is a temporal brow lift, and how does it differ from other types of brow lifts?
A temporal brow lift corrects the outer third of your eyebrows, giving your eyes a more open, attractive appearance. It leaves more inconspicuous scarring with less downtime and risks than other lifting techniques.
Am I a good candidate for a temporal brow lift?
The best brow lift candidates are in good overall health with no underlying conditions that could complicate the healing process. If you smoke, you’ll need to quit before your surgery and remain tobacco-free throughout your recovery.
What type of anesthesia does this procedure involve?
Dr. Schmidt can perform your temporal brow lift while you are under local or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is safer overall because it only numbs one specific area of your body. Instead of being fully unconscious, you’ll be awake and aware of what’s going on around you.
What happens during brow lift surgery, and how long does it typically take?
Dr. Schmidt begins a Denver brow lift by making tiny incisions within your hairline or concealed in your natural forehead contours. Then, he will elevate your brows to an ideal point based on your unique facial anatomy.
If performed as a stand-alone procedure, a brow lift typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes for Dr. Schmidt to perform.
What should I expect during the recovery period?
The initial swelling and bruising can temporarily obscure your results. To diminish these effects, apply ice packs and sleep on your back with your head propped up by pillows. Listen to your body and rest when you feel tired.
Will I experience pain or discomfort after the surgery, and if so, how can I manage it?
After the anesthesia wears off, discomfort is usually minimal. You can take over-the-counter painkillers to alleviate it. Dr. Schmidt will provide you with detailed instructions to follow while you heal.
What type of scarring can I expect after the surgery, and how can I minimize it?
Inconspicuous scarring is a notable advantage of the temporal brow lift technique. If you have sufficient hair, Dr. Schmidt will place incisions within your hairline. If you have a receding hairline, your incisions will be directly above your eyebrows or within your forehead furrows. You can take steps to minimize scars by protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure by applying sunscreen and wearing a broad-brimmed hat.
When will I be able to return to work or other normal activities after the surgery?
Dr. Schmidt recommends planning at least three weeks for your brow lift recovery. Devote the first week to self-care, and don’t try to rush the process. You will probably feel more fatigue than usual, which is a sign that your body is spending most of its resources on healing.
In the second week, you can gradually ramp up your activity level by taking light walks. You may feel well enough to return to work by the two-week mark if your job isn’t physically demanding. By three weeks, Dr. Schmidt clears most of his brow lift patients to resume their fitness regimen.
Are there any risks or complications associated with temporal brow lift surgery?
A temporal brow lift is a superior approach because it has fewer risks and less healing time than other techniques. It’s critical to attend scheduled follow-up appointment so Dr. Schmidt can evaluate your progress. Diligently adhering to your post-surgical directions will ensure a smooth, successful recovery.
How long will the results of the surgery last, and what can I do to maintain them?
While repositioning sagging brow tissue will make you look younger and well-rested for years to come, it won’t stop you from aging. Luckily, you can take steps to prolong your brow lift benefits, including staying hydrated, following a consistent skin care routine, wearing sunscreen, reducing stress, and getting enough restful sleep every night.
Scheduling a Consultation
Dr. Schmidt’s priority is to provide personalized and cost-effective procedures for each patient. He is available for one-on-one consultations to discuss your individual needs and potential solutions. For patients who live outside the Denver area, Dr. Schmidt will conduct preliminary consultations over the phone or webcam via Skype, Tango, or Facetime.
Connect with our office to schedule your consultation.
Schedule Your Consultation
Connect with our office to schedule your consultation.
