A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a plastic surgery procedure that rejuvenates the upper portion of the face, particularly the area above the eyes. As we age, the skin and muscles of the forehead can sag, leading to a tired or aged appearance. Dr. Guy Watts offers comprehensive consultations and different brow lift techniques to help individuals regain a refreshed look.
A brow lift is a surgical procedure designed to elevate the position of the eyebrows and smooth out wrinkles and frown lines on the forehead. The primary goal is to give more contour to the forehead skin, upper eyelids, and eyebrows. There are various techniques for performing a brow lift, but all aim to address the sagging or drooping of the brows. Whether it’s due to genetics, ageing, or other factors, a drooping brow can have a significant impact on one’s overall facial aesthetics. A brow lift can effectively counteract these changes, providing a refreshed and revitalised appearance.
Dr Guy Watts offers both endoscopic and open brow lift techniques and will assess your specific anatomy to determine which will provide the best results whilst minimising incisions and recovery time.
The decision to undergo a brow lift is a personal one, and the best candidates are those who have thoroughly researched the procedure and have realistic expectations about the results. Here are some characteristics of good candidates for brow lift surgery:
• Elevate a drooping brow
• Improve appearance of horizontal forehead wrinkles
• Reposition and create a more sculpted arched brow
• Improve brow symmetry
• Reduce excess upper eyelid skin by repairing brow ptosis
A brow lift can be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as blepharoplasty or face lift to offer a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Non-surgical techniques such as dermal fillers, wrinkle relaxers and chemical peels can also be used in conjunction with a brow lift to leave the face looking naturally refreshed. After a thorough consultation to determine your goals and desires Dr Watts will recommend which procedure or combination of procedures will deliver you the desired result.
A brow lift requires meticulous precision and expertise. The surgery’s primary objective is to elevate the eyebrows to a different position and smooth out the forehead’s wrinkles. The exact technique used can vary based on the patient’s anatomy, Dr. Watts’ preference, and the desired outcome. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the most common techniques:
Endoscopic Brow Lift:
Direct Brow Lift:
Gliding Brow Lift:
Preparation: Before the procedure, general anaesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort and safety.
Incisions: Small and discreet incisions are carefully made within the hairline or natural forehead creases, strategically placed to allow access while minimising visible scarring.
Procedure: Dr Watts gently separates the skin from underlying tissues, creating a “glide path.” Brow tissues are then lifted and repositioned to achieve a natural and rejuvenated appearance, employing specialised techniques such as internal sutures for secure anchoring.
Closure: After the procedure, the incisions are meticulously closed with sutures to minimise scarring. Patients receive postoperative care instructions for managing discomfort, swelling, and bruising, and follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Each technique has its advantages and potential drawbacks. The best method is determined based on the patient’s specific needs, hairline position, degree of forehead wrinkles, and other factors.
Recovery from a brow lift is a crucial phase, and understanding what to expect can help ensure a smooth healing process:
Plastic surgery comes with inherent risks. While modern techniques and advancements have made these procedures safer than ever, it’s crucial for patients to be aware of potential complications and make informed decisions. Anaesthesia is used in most surgical procedures to ensure the patient’s comfort. However, in rare cases, it can lead to complications such as allergic reactions, lung infections, stroke, and even heart complications.
Also, keep in mind that all surgeries result in some form of scarring. While Dr. Watts often uses techniques to minimise and strategically place these scars, some patients might experience hypertrophic or keloid scarring, which is raised and more prominent. It’s essential for anyone considering plastic surgery to thoroughly research and understand these risks. Read more about risks and potential complications of plastic surgery.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Dr. Guy Watts (AHPRA Medical Reg. MED0001539378) is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with an extensive career that spans across renowned plastic surgery clinics worldwide. His exceptional expertise has been honed through invaluable experiences at esteemed establishments such as the prestigious New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and the renowned Pitanguy Clinic in Brazil.
Having collaborated with the foremost cosmetic plastic surgeons on a global scale, Dr. Watts has chosen to return to Perth after a remarkable 17-year journey of intensive training and invaluable professional experience to bring the latest practices and technology in cosmetic plastic surgery to his patients.
Dr. Watts is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRACS) and a Member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS).