Pretrichial Temporal Browlift: Cost, Recovery, Risks

What is a pretrichial temporal browlift?

Pretrichial temporal brow lift addresses the sagging of the lateral or temporal brow. Sagging in this area of the brow is known as hooding and it can impact the line of vision as well as cause a person to look fatigued. Pretrichial temporal brow lift is also known as subcutaneous brow lift and it involves making an incision in front of the hairline, along the forehead, to lift the brows into a better position. Since the incision for this type of brow lift is closer to the brow area than other techniques, it can provide the most optimal lift while rejuvenating the eye area.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Pretrichial Temporal Brow Lift?

GOOD CANDIDATES for a pretrichial temporal brow lift are:

• An older patient with a lateral drop in the brow or extra skin on the upper eyelid
• A male or female patient with a high hairline that suffers from hooding
• Patients who want a more permanent solution than Botox
• A patient with a low lateral brow who wants a minimally invasive surgery
• A patient with asymmetric brows

The following patients are NOT GOOD CANDIDATES for a pretrichial temporal brow lift:

• A patient who does not wish to risk having a visible scar on the forehead
• Patients who have a short forehead
• Younger patients who can correct the issue with Botox injections

How is a Pretrichial Temporal Brow Lift Performed?

A pretrichial temporal brow lift can be performed with just local anesthesia or with intravenous sedation.  The surgeon will make an incision at the edge of the temporal hairline. The tissue underneath will be dissected and excised. The surgeon will close the wound with both deep and superficial sutures which results in a lifted eye area. Lifting the lateral tissue also helps to smooth the wrinkles located at the corners of the eyes, known as the crow’s feet, while providing an overall rejuvenated eye area.

Performed with Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is often performed in conjunction with a pretrichial temporal brow lift if excess skin will still be present after the brow lift.  An upper and lower blepharoplasty can address excess skin around the eyes and bags under the eyes.

What is the Cost of a Pretrichial Temporal Brow lift?  

The cost of a pretrichial temporal brow lift is around $2000-$3000 but this price does not include anesthesia fees. The total cost also depends on the facility fee and the geographic location of the procedure.

Recovery and Downtime

After a pretrichial temporal brow lift, the incision line will be red and swollen at the start of the RECOVERY period. Patients should keep their head elevated to minimize swelling and discomfort. Bruising can sometimes be seen after a brow lift. Pain medications can help with discomfort and should be used as directed. Wound healing can take 10 to 14 days and any sutures will be removed around that time.

In terms of DOWNTIME, vigorous activities should be avoided for the first two weeks. Most patients can return to work and resume normal activities after 7-10 days. It can take several weeks or months for the scar to fade.

Results

The brow will appear elevated immediately after the surgery.  However more realistic results can be noticed in about 14 days after the majority of the swelling and bruising has subsided. Final results after a pretrichial temporal brow lift can be seen at 3 months post-op. However, it can take a full year for the scar line to fade from red to pale in color. While the results are long lasting, gravity will eventually cause the skin to become lax again and the lateral brow to droop. To maintain the results, many patients utilize Botox injections to keep the muscle subdued and the brow from drooping. Otherwise, another brow lift procedure may be needed to lift the brow again.

Limitations of Pretrichial Temporal Brow Lift

The limitations of the procedure include:

• A scar below the hairline
• A short forehead since the brow hair may end up too close to the hairline

Risks of Pretrichial Temporal Brow Lift

The risks of this brow lift technique include:

• Adverse reaction to the anesthesia
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Numbness or changes in sensations
• Eye irritation or dryness
• Slow healing
• Poor wound healing
• Facial nerve injury resulting in weakness or paralysis (extremely rare)
• Visible scarring

Consult with an Experienced Surgeon

When considering a pretrichial temporal brow lift, patients should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in, and performs, this brow lift technique regularly. A skilled surgeon can provide the most optimal outcome while minimizing any potential risks. The surgeon will also examine a person and determine if he, or she, is an ideal candidate for the procedure. A pretrichial temporal brow lift is minimally invasive and works well on patients with a sagging lateral or temporal brow. Find a doctor near you and schedule a consultation.

Written by Cosmetic Town Editorial Team- MA

Based on an exclusive interview with John Martin, MD in Coral Gables, FL