Endoscopic Brow Lift

The endoscopic browlift is a procedure that can correct drooping brows and horizontal lines and furrows in the forehead to help restore a youthful appearance. Endoscopy is a surgical technique that incorporates the use of an endoscope, a thin camera device connected to a television monitor, which allows the doctor to see the body's internal structures through minimal incisions. Through an endoscopic browlift, patients can achieve raised eyebrows and fewer frown lines without the large incision typically used for a traditional browlift. Along with the advantage of smaller incisions, browlifts performed endoscopically have less chance of infection, less numbing and itching, less wound care, and fewer side effects.

In an endoscopic browlift procedure, 3-5 short incisions (less than one inch in length) are made in the scalp. An endoscope is then inserted into one of the incisions. Using another instrument inserted through a different incision, the forehead skin is lifted. The muscles and underlying tissues are removed or altered to produce a smoother appearance. The eyebrows may also be lifted and secured into a higher position using sutures underneath the skin's surface or through temporary fixation screws placed behind the hairline.

The difference between an endoscopic browlift and mid-facelift?

Endoscopic browlifts typically either raise or lower the brow and mainly address the forehead, eyebrows, and the upper eyelids. The limited mid-face lift with endoscopy can be done through same incisions. A traditional mid-facelift provides middle face rejuvenation and addresses any remaining areas below the eyes along with the area of the face level with the nose down to the teeth. It also elevates the cheeks and can further correct any drooping eyebags.

Who should get an endoscopic browlift?

The endoscopic browlift uses smaller incisions and decreased incidence of bleeding with a faster recovery time. It is a compatible procedure for most people, especially those with smaller foreheads and low hairline.

Where are the incisions for an endoscopic browlift?

The incisions for an endoscopic browlift, each one-half to 1 inch in length, are hidden above the hairline. These incisions heal quickly and are usually not noticeable after a few weeks of recovery.

What kind of anesthesia is used?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with oral or intravenous conscious sedation.

How long does a browlift last?

Although the results of a browlift vary depending on the procedure and aging of the patient, browlifts typically last 5-10 years. Patients who are in good general health and who do not smoke or abuse their skin will see longer lasting results.

What happens after the procedure? How long does healing take?

The endoscopic browlift incisions are closed using stitches or clips, gauze and sometimes an elastic bandage. After the procedure, patients may experience numbness, mild itching, incision discomfort and some swelling. Incision site pain can be controlled using medication. The stitches or staples used to close the incisions are typically removed within 1 week of the surgery. Healing with the remodeling process and evaluation of the final result can take up to 6 months or longer.

What are the complications and risks for an endoscopic browlift?

Complications may include bleeding, facial nerve damage, hair loss due to follicle shock, and scarring. However, these complications are rare.

If I have a browlift, will I end up with a "surprised" look?

Although a browlift does not always raise the brow area, it is not uncommon for patients to see themselves with a "surprised" look for up to three weeks following a browlift. This effect can result from temporary swelling. Some patients may experience this "surprised" look for longer than three weeks, but it's usually not noticed by others.

If I have a browlift, will it also lift my face?

Browlifts can also address the area below the eyes. When combined with a mid-facelift suspension, which can be performed through the same incisions, the procedure can lift some amount of sagging in the face.