What is the Difference Between a Facelift and a Brow Lift?

Although its name may give the impression that it applies to the entire face, a facelift only treats wrinkles and loose skin on the lower third of the face as well as the neck. For deep forehead wrinkles or “frown lines” between the eyes, a brow lift is the ideal procedure. Both involve tightening the underlying facial muscles to create a smoother facial appearance and trimming away any sagging or excess skin to provide a natural, more youthful look. In addition, both procedures can be performed at the same time to provide optimal facial rejuvenation.

Facelift

Incisions with a facelift are hidden along the natural hairline. They begin at each temple and extend down toward the ear and around the back of the ear to the lower scalp. These incisions allow direct access to the underlying facial muscles, which are repositioned and tightened to provide a firmer appearance. Tightening the skin will provide improvement to the jowls, a double chin, wrinkles around the mouth, and any sagging of the midface, which can make patients look up to ten years younger.

If necessary, liposuction can be used in combination with this procedure to eliminate excess fatty deposits, usually beneath the chin. Facial injectables like Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® can also be used along with a facelift to add volume to facial hollows in the cheeks or beneath the eyes.  The most exciting advancement in facial rejuvenation surgery is the addition of facial fat injections performed at the same time as a facelift. Facial volume can now be restored using your own body fat with these results lasting longer than any injectable filler on the market. Facelifts can last up to 10 years, but results do vary with individuals.

Brow lift

I perform a technique called Endoscopic Brow lift. As opposed to the standard coronal technique where an incision is made ear to ear, small incisions (3 to 5) are made behind the hairline. The procedure is performed with a video camera so that small incisions can be used. Endoscopic surgery results in less numbness and itching during recovery, less scarring and hair loss. This procedure can correct deep wrinkles between the eyes, and provide subtle improvement to the upper as well as the lower eyelids. Although the incisions are small, they provide a big improvement to the overall appearance by making the patient look more alert and well-rested. Results with a brow lift can last five to ten years.

A facelift and brow lift may not target fine lines and wrinkles caused by sun damage, tobacco use, or natural aging. However, certain skin care products may also be recommended to help correct these fine lines and wrinkles and help protect the skin from further damage.

I perform many facelift and brow lift procedures at my practice in Paradise Valley, Arizona. I can review the results you desire during your initial consultation to determine the procedure that will best meet your needs. To schedule your consultation, please call (480) 890-0600 or fill out our online contact form. I look forward to meeting you.