As we get older, sagging near the upper third of the face is often one of the first signs of aging. The brows may droop. You may discover more wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes. And both men and women often complain of feeling like they look tired, worn-out, or even angry.
A lateral brow lift (sometimes called a temporal brow lift) may be able to help. But before we discuss lateral temporal brow lift surgery, let’s talk about brow lifts in general.
What is a brow lift?
Essentially, this is a surgery that improves signs of aging on the upper face. It can help with lines around the eyes and between the brows, wrinkles on the forehead, drooping brows, deep frown lines, and more. Different brow lift techniques and brow lift procedures exist to correct for different issues.
Below, we’ll be discussing the lateral brow lift (or temporal lift), which is quite common and effective.
What Is a Lateral Brow Lift?
A lateral brow lift is a cosmetic procedure that elevates the outer portion of the eyebrows and that general area. In short, it targets the lateral brow area, which can sag with age and lead to a tired or sad appearance. This surgery can also reduce frown lines and improve the overall look of the forehead.
Ideal Lateral Brow Lift Candidates
Candidates for a lateral brow lift are usually adults who have sagging eyebrows, a drooping upper eye area, or excess skin in the brow and temple area. They should be in good health and have realistic expectations for their results. Additionally, candidates should not smoke and should discuss any medications they currently take during their brow lift consultation.
Lateral Brow Lift Procedure Steps
The lateral brow lift procedure typically begins with anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The surgeon then makes incisions along the hairline at or near the temples. This helps minimize the appearance of brow lift scars. The brow is then lifted and repositioned, excess skin is removed, and finally, the incisions are carefully closed.
Lateral Brow Lift Recovery
Recovery from a lateral brow lift generally involves swelling and some bruising, which can last for about a week. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days. As long as you carefully follow your plastic surgeon’s aftercare instructions, you should have a smooth brow lift recovery day by day.
Other Types of Brow Lift Surgery
Traditional Brow Lift (Coronal Lift)
This method involves larger incisions and is often used for significant lifting of the brow area. While effective, it may leave more noticeable scars compared to other techniques.
Endoscopic Brow Lift
Endoscopic brow lifts involve smaller incisions and special instruments, including one with a camera to help your surgeon better visualize their work.
Botox Brow Lift or Lateral Brow Lift Botox
Botox can be used alone to smooth the forehead and temple region. Alternatively, Botox lateral brow lift injection sites can enhance the results of a simple temporal lift.
FAQs: Lateral Brow Lift Before and After
What is the difference between a lateral brow lift and a traditional brow lift?
The main difference lies in the area of focus and incision length. A lateral brow lift primarily targets the outer brow region and utilizes smaller incisions.
On the other hand, a traditional brow lift (sometimes called a coronal or classic brow lift) addresses the entire brow and forehead area and uses larger incisions. Patients seeking a subtle lift with minimal scarring may prefer a lateral brow lift.
How long is the recovery for a lateral brow lift?
Recovery after a lateral brow lift typically lasts about one to two weeks. But this depends on individual healing rates and what the scope of the procedure was.
Patients may experience some swelling and bruising, but these symptoms usually subside within the first week. Following post-operative care instructions can help speed up recovery and improve results.
Can I combine a lateral brow lift with other procedures?
Yes, many patients opt to combine lateral brow lifts with other facial procedures, such as upper eyelid surgery, Botox, or fillers. Combining surgeries can create a more comprehensive rejuvenation effect. It can also bring down the cost of surgery as combining surgery is often cheaper than undergoing separate procedures.
Discuss your options during the brow lift consultation to find the best approach for your goals.
Are there any risks associated with a lateral brow lift?
Like any surgery, a lateral brow lift carries some risks, including potentially poor or noticeable scarring, infection, bleeding, or undesirable results. That said, when the surgery is performed by a qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon, complications are rare.
Your surgeon will go over potential complications and risks at your consultation appointment and prior to surgery. It’s important to discuss any concerns during your consultation and to follow all pre- and post-operative care instructions.
Set Up a Consultation with Us Today
Are you interested in reducing signs of aging on your upper face? Have you started to notice fine lines near the outer corner of your eyes or a sagging brow line? A lateral brow lift may be the solution you need.
Contact our office today to book your one-on-one consultation appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Raja Mohan.