Forehead Lift & Browlift FAQ
Dr. John Smoot and Dr. Wendell Smoot, cosmetic surgeons in the La Jolla, San Diego area, would be happy to address any questions you might have about the forehead lift (also called browlift) procedure. These surgeons enjoy explaining their credentials, experience and techniques to prospective patients.
The following are a few key questions and answers regarding the forehead lift technique.
Would I make a good forehead lift candidate?
One of the following conditions or a combination of these may indicate that you could benefit from a forehead lift:
- Low or sagging positioning of the eyebrows, presenting a doleful or tired appearance
- Creases that are deep and run horizontally across the forehead
- Frown lines between the eyebrows and horizontally across the top of the nose
What techniques would my plastic surgeon use to improve my appearance?
Often, a surgical incision across the top of the scalp is the first step; the incision starts above the ears and is concealed by hair. The incision can take place at the front of the hairline, or sometimes, toward the middle portion of the scalp. It is meant to be undetectable once healed, and especially male cosmetic surgery patients should let us know if you have a family history of balding so we can situate the incision accordingly.
Another browlift procedure employs an endoscope, a long, slim tube with a lighted end. The endoscope goes in through several small scalp incisions. The tube is connected to a video camera, and allows for the use of tiny instruments in performing the procedure. Using this tool, we are able to view and work on the forehead's internal structures with only very small incisions.
How should I get ready for surgery?
If you smoke, it is in your best interest to quit smoking altogether or at least for several weeks or months prior to the surgery. Aspirin and some anti-inflammatory medications can increase bleeding, so these medications should not be taken for a specified time period prior to surgery. Your cosmetic surgeon will instruct you as to proper post-operative care. If your surgery will be performed on an outpatient basis, make certain you have someone ready to drive you home and stay with you for at least one night post surgery, or you are welcome to recover in our on-site three bed facility.
What can I expect on the day of surgery?
Frequently, local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used for patients undergoing browlift and forehead lift surgery, although general anesthesia may be desirable in some instances. Various monitors are used to check your vital signs. After surgery, you will be moved to recovery where monitoring will continue. Discomfort from the surgery is minimal. You probably will be permitted to go home after a few hours, although some patients may stay overnight in the hospital or surgical facility.
When can I get back to my day-to-day activities?
Straining, lifting and bending should be avoided in the early stages of recovery from your browlift. Frequently, normal activities can be resumed in as little as ten days. However, it is advisable to wait for a period of several weeks before performing strenuous activities. Sunscreen is very important especially during this healing period.
How long will my new look last?
Heredity and lifestyle will play a role in how long your forehead lift with maintain itself. Smoking in particular has been shown to affect skin tone and shorten the life of many cosmetic surgery procedures. Patients often express satisfaction with their appearance for many years after a forehead lift / browlift .
If you are considering a forehead lift / browlift procedure, please email or call the offices of Dr. John and Dr. Wendell Smoot to schedule a forehead lift / browlift consultation in the San Diego area. Our doctors can help you determine what approach is right for you.
Wendell Smoot, M.D.
John Smoot, M.D.
Reza Sadrian, M.D.
Carol Hollan, M.D.
9850 Genesee Ave. #300, #380
La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone No: (858) 587-9850
Fax: (858) 622-2066
If you live near La Jolla or elsewhere in San Diego and would like to learn more about abdominoplasty or liposuction, contact our practice today.
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