How is a forehead lift performed?
Your surgeon may use the conventional surgical method, in which the incision is hidden just behind the hairline, or he/she may use a newer method which employs an endoscope, (a camera-like narrow tube with a bright light on one end) to achieve the desired results with minimal incisions. Before surgery, your hair will parted to reveal the incision line. Hair in front of the incision(s) may be trimmed.

Method #1: Conventional forehead lift (also called a coronal browlift):
First, the surgeon makes an incision behind the hairline, from ear to ear. For men with a receding hairline, or women with thinning hair, the incision may be placed at the hairline instead, in order to avoid adding more height to the forehead. Next, the skin of the forehead is lifted away from the underlying muscles. The excess skin is trimmed away, and the incision is closed with sutures (stitches), clips or staples. Finally, the surgeon may cover the incision with gauze padding and wrap the head in an elastic bandage. If bandages are used, they can usually be removed a day or two after surgery.

Method #2: Endoscopic forehead lift:
This procedure is often preferred for younger patients who are just beginning to have brow problems. In this procedure, an endoscope is placed under the skin in order to get a clear view of the muscles and tissues under the skin. Then the surgeon inserts another instrument through a separate incision to lift the forehead skin and remove or alter the muscles and underlying tissues. The forehead skin is tacked up in a higher position with temporary screws/sutures. The skin will heal in this position and remain there even after the screws/sutures are removed.

What is the long-term outcome like for most people?
Most people are pleased with the results of a forehead lift, no matter which surgical method was used. Many people only have one lift in a lifetime, while others have a second surgery 7 - 15 years later.

The results of a forehead lift are different for every individual. Remember that a forehead lift cannot stop the aging process, but your forehead will always be smoother and firmer than it would be if you hadn’t had this procedure.

What is the recovery period like?
You may feel a bit tired at first, but your energy level will probably return to normal within a week. Most of the visible signs of surgery should fade completely within about three weeks. Minor swelling and bruising can be concealed with special camouflage makeup. For at least 2-3 weeks you should limit strenuous activities such as jogging, bending, heavy housework, sex, or any activity that increases your blood pressure. Prolonged exposure to heat or sun should be limited for several months.

Some hair around the incision may fall out, and hair regrowth may be thinner for several months. Permanent hair loss is rare. Your surgeon will schedule a series of follow-up exams after your surgery. If you have a conventional forehead lift, the numbness on the top of your scalp may be replaced by itching as the nerves heal. These sensations may take as long as six months to fully disappear.