A brow lift is a cosmetic procedure that improves the position and shape of low set brows. If done correctly, the procedure creates a natural effect, giving the patient a more youthful appearance. A brow lift can also “open up” the eyes, and even improve some of the forehead wrinkles. Is a brow lift permanent?
Although the effects of any brow lift will ultimately fade as you continue to age and gravity performs its endless function, your results will last for many years depending on the type of brow lift you receive and the condition of your skin. In order to maintain the most lasting results possible, Dr. Zoumalan recommends routine maintenance Botox to keep the brow and forehead muscles at rest.
What are the Different Types of Brow Lift?
Dr. Christopher Zoumalan, a Board-Certified Oculoplastic Surgeon in Beverly Hills, explains that there are several types of brow lifts. Asking, “is a brow lift permanent?” is a challenging question. Each of them gives slightly different results, and they last for different periods of time. The form the procedure takes will largely be decided by the patient’s existing tissues as well as their desired results. These are the four primary types of procedures.
The Endoscopic Brow Lift
This is one of Dr. Zoumalan’s preferred type of brow lift, as it really improves the entire shape and position of the brow. However, not everyone is a candidate, and you will meet with the doctor to determine if you are a good candidate. This procedure requires several small incisions made at the sites of correction. Dr. Zoumalan will use an endoscope, a tiny tube with an attached camera, to maneuver under the skin without making any large incisions. During the procedure, he will lift the brow 3-5 mm for a natural lift and set the lift in place using Endotine fixation devices. These devices will dissolve over the next few months, but your brow lift will last for several years after.
The Temporal/Lateral Brow Lift
This procedure focuses primarily on the outer edge of the eyebrow. It is intended for patients who do not wish to undergo a full brow lift but do want to restore a natural brow contour. The procedure mimics the endoscopic brow lift, except it does not target the entire forehead. Only the outer brow region is lifted by a few millimeters.
The Brow Pexy
A minimal brow lift paired with a blepharoplasty, gives your brow a very slight re-suspension while correcting for drooping eyelids. Essentially, the Brow Pexy removes the clearest signs of aging while maintaining a very natural look in patients who do not require a full brow lift.
The Direct Brow Lift
This procedure can often be performed just under local anesthesia, and the results can last man years as well as the brow lifts mentioned above. During the procedure, Dr. Zoumalan will make a very well-placed incision just near the eyebrow, which allows for extra skin to be removed. This is a great procedure for both males and females, and also those with a high forehead or a receding hairline. Fortunately, scarring is usually fully hidden within the eyebrows themselves.
Finding the Right Cosmetic Surgeon in Beverly Hills
Getting the most out of your brow lift starts with finding the right surgeon. For the best possible results, you will want to make sure your surgeon is Board Certified in their respective specialty and properly trained for those procedures you have in mind at the minimum. You should also look to see that they have been recognized by their peers, speak as experts at medical conferences, and conduct research and publish their research in medical journals.
Lastly, ask to see before and after images of previous patients to ensure your surgeon’s results match your expectations. Once you’ve found your ideal plastic surgeon, the rest is up to you.
Maximizing your Results
When you first get out of surgery, there will be some swelling. During this critical stage, it is important to make sure you follow all of Dr. Zoumalan’s instructions to make your brow lift permanent as possible. This includes any activity limitations and medications. Once you’re fully healed, you should maintain a healthy diet, avoid smoking, and use sun protection to extend your results. Sun damage, smoking, and rapid weight changes can all detract from the longevity of your brow lift. As mentioned before, routine maintenance Botox to keep the muscles around the brows relaxed can also help allow the brow lift to last as long as possible.
