Brow Lift Surgery

Why might a brow lift be considered? With age, sun exposure, and changes to skin and muscle, the position of the brow can alter over time. This may contribute to the appearance of forehead lines or a lower brow position. Some people also notice changes above the eyelids that may relate to brow position.

What is brow lift surgery? A brow lift is a surgical procedure that repositions the brow. Different techniques are used, and incisions are usually placed within or behind the hairline. Like all surgery, brow lift procedures result in scars, although these are designed to be as inconspicuous as possible. The aim of surgery is to alter the position of the brow and change the relationship between the brow, eyelid, and forehead. Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.

Brow lift or eyelid surgery? In some cases, changes above the eyes may relate to the brow position, the upper eyelid skin, or a combination of both. During a consultation, Dr Sophie Ricketts, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, will assess your individual circumstances and discuss whether a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or a combination may be appropriate.

Brow Lift: Risks and Complications

A brow lift is a surgical procedure intended to reposition the eyebrows and address tissue laxity in the forehead region. While Dr Sophie Ricketts follows rigorous clinical protocols to manage and address potential complications, all invasive surgery carries inherent risks. It is essential that patients understand these possibilities before deciding to proceed.

General Surgical Risks

• Anaesthesia-Related Complications: Potential adverse reactions to general anaesthesia, including respiratory or cardiac issues.

• Infection: Post-operative infection at the incision sites may require antibiotics or further surgical intervention.

• Haematoma and Seroma: The accumulation of blood (haematoma) or clear fluid (seroma) under the forehead skin or scalp, which may require surgical drainage.

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): The risk of blood clots forming in the legs, which can be life-threatening if they migrate to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

• Poor Wound Healing: Risk of wound breakdown or delayed healing, which is significantly higher for patients who smoke.

Specific Risks of Brow Lift Surgery

• Nerve Injury (Motor and Sensory): * Motor Nerve: Potential injury to the frontal branch of the facial nerve, which can result in a temporary or permanent inability to raise the eyebrows or wrinkle the forehead.

  • Sensory Nerve: Temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or “itching” sensations across the forehead and scalp.

• Permanent Scarring: Incisions result in permanent scars. Depending on the technique (endoscopic, coronal, or hairline), these are typically placed within or along the hairline, but their final appearance is influenced by individual healing.

• Asymmetry: Variations in healing or underlying facial structure may result in the eyebrows being positioned at different heights or shapes.

• Hairline Alteration: Depending on the surgical approach, the hairline may be raised or slightly shifted.

• Hair Loss (Alopecia): Temporary or permanent hair thinning or loss may occur along the incision lines.

• Lagophthalmos: Difficulty closing the eyelids completely, which can lead to eye irritation or corneal dryness, typically resolving as swelling subsides.

• Unsatisfactory Results: The final outcome may not meet aesthetic goals, and revision surgery may be necessary to manage complications or contour irregularities.

Your Consultation Process

A consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, is a comprehensive clinical assessment to determine your suitability for surgery. This process is designed to ensure you are fully informed of the potential risks, expected clinical outcomes, and available non-surgical alternatives relevant to your circumstances.

In accordance with the Medical Board of Australia’s mandatory guidelines for cosmetic surgery:

• Clinical Evaluation: Dr Ricketts will assess your medical history and physical anatomy to determine if the procedure is clinically appropriate.

• Psychological Screening: A mandatory assessment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and psychological readiness is required for all patients.

• GP Referral: You must provide a valid referral from your General Practitioner prior to your initial consultation.

• Two-Stage Process: A minimum of two pre-operative consultations is required.

• Cooling-Off Period: After your second consultation, a mandatory 7-day cooling-off period must elapse before any surgery can be booked or payments made.