Eyebrow/forehead lifting is now done with minimal incisions and an endoscopic technique. Large incisions across the scalp are no longer used or recommended. Instead, 3 small incisions are used in the scalp (if a facelift is being done at the same time) or 5 small incisions if the forehead lift is being done as a stand-alone procedure. The endoscopic technique has made forehead lifting a much less invasive procedure while still achieving beautiful and long-lasting results. Likewise, with this new technique, recovery has been minimized.

Dr. Lindsey uses absorbable endotines as part of this procedure. These are temporary internal “hooks” that hold the eyebrows in the desired location during the healing process. These do not require removal, but do gradually absorb over several months.

Eyebrow lifting is often a very important part of facial rejuvenation, particularly in the female patient. Elevation of the brows slightly above the orbital rims with a slight peak between the medial two-thirds and lateral one-third of the brow in the female patient not only gives a youthful effect, but also feminizes the facial features. In the female patient, endoscopic brow lifting normally works well with blepharoplasties and facelifting to give the most balanced and natural-appearing result. A secondary benefit of brow lifting is the effacement of the forehead wrinkles. This occurs because with the eyebrows in an elevated position, the forehead muscles do not have to contract as much to allow unobstructed vision.

Brow lifting in men is less frequent and is usually done with upper blepharoplasties to improve the field of vision. The goals in men are to raise the eyebrow to the level of the orbital rim, but not above, and also to produce a flatter configuration of the brow (no arch).