Brow Lift Surgery FAQs

How can I prepare for a brow lift?

Your brow lift preparation is easier than ever with the list of tips we have put together for you. Getting things in order before your surgery will no doubt help to make your post-operative period as smooth and easy as possible.  You may like to come up with more ideas but here are some suggestions for preparing for a brow lift:

Cleaning

Make your recovery more relaxed by getting all your cleaning jobs out of the way beforehand.  It may help to get on top of the washing, take out the rubbish and give the house a clean so that you can take a few days off after your brow lift.

Shopping

It is likely your face will be bruised and swollen after your surgery and you may not feel like going shopping.  The solution? Do a big food shop to keep you going the day before your procedure. You may also like to make up some meals and freeze them, that way you won’t have to worry about cooking.

Support network

You may like to organise for friends or family to help look after kids or pets for a few days after your brow lift. Organising this in advance will help prevent you any unnecessary stress during your recovery period.

Beauty treatments

If you are planning to have any hair or facial treatments, we recommend you do these before your surgery. Your scars will be sensitive to the chemicals often used in these treatments for the first few weeks.

Driving

Due to the anaesthesia used during surgery, you will be unable to drive yourself home. You will, therefore, need to ask someone you know to drive you home. You may be unable to drive for up to two weeks after the browlift, but check restrictions with your surgeon.

Clothing

It is advised you choose to wear clothing that zips or fastens easily at the back or the front so you do not have to pull anything over your head. This will avoid contact with the treatment area and make sure you are comfortable!

Eating and drinking

We advise that you try to stick to high-protein, low-sodium foods like fruit and vegetables after your brow lift. Avoid consuming high amounts of salt and sugar while you recover.  Drink water regularly to stay hydrated and aim to avoid beverages containing caffeine.

Sleeping

Ensure you have plenty of extra pillows to help you elevate your head while sleeping after your surgery. Your BAAPS/BAPRAS surgeon will advise that you rest and sleep on your back in an inclined position, avoiding lying flat. This will help reduce your swelling.

For further hints and tips you can read the brochure here.

Will the NHS pay for my brow lift?

Brow lifts are not usually available on the NHS for cosmetic reasons. However, it may be provided by the NHS if the drooping of your brows is affecting your vision or making it difficult for you to open your eyelids. You may like to speak to your GP about whether not you would qualify for the NHS to pay for your surgery. 

Do I need a GP referral for my brow lift?

Generally, most cosmetic surgeons will be happy to see you for an initial consultation without a referral from your GP. It is likely, however, that they will ask permission to contact your GP if you decide to opt for a brow lift.  This will be to gain access to medical information they will need to know about you. 

What effect will drugs have on my brow lift?

The use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs can increase the risks of complications for your brow lift. Consequently, we recommend that you stop smoking for at least six weeks before and after your surgery.  You may even like to use this as an opportunity to quit smoking. We also advise that you try to cut down on your alcohol consumption around the time of your brow lift and refrain from taking recreational drugs.