Most patients who choose to undergo brow lifting surgery have a successful outcome, though, like any surgery, there are some risks and potential complications to keep in mind. Complications can come from both expected and unexpected factors. Since every individual has unique skin types, tissue structures, blood circulation, healing responses, and reactions to anaesthesia, it’s difficult to promise specific outcomes or foresee every possible complication. However, working with a highly qualified and experienced Plastic Surgeon, like Dr. Siegel, can significantly lower the chances of untoward problems developing. Your surgery will be performed safely and with care, to provide you with the best possible result, and to allow for a smooth and speedy recovery. The following complications have been reported in the medical literature. They are listed here for your information, not to frighten you, but to make you aware and more knowledgeable concerning this surgical procedure.

• Nerve damage:  Temporary or permanent paralysis of the forehead muscles, making it difficult or impossible to raise your eyebrows or wrinkle your forehead.
• Numbness: In most cases it is temporary, and a result of swelling. Permanent numbness is rare and is most common with classic forehead lifts. (NOT the type you will have).
• Asymmetry: By nature the face, including the brows, have some degree of asymmetry. This asymmetry may remain, or worsen after surgery.
• Hair loss: Can occur along the incision site or over the scar, in most cases, this is temporary and will self-resolve. Permanent hair loss is rare.
• Scarring: Very rare. It can be visible after the procedure and may require steroid injections, or surgery to remove it.
• Infection: A risk of any surgery.
• Blood clots: Can cause potentially fatal cardiovascular complications such as heart attack, deep vein thrombosis, or stroke.
• Collapsed lung: A risk of surgery.

Other risks, as with any surgical procedure include:

• Allergic reaction to anaesthesia
• Bleeding
• Loss of tissue
• Rough skin
• Stitches surfacing through the skin
• Permanent facial pain
• Blood clots: Can cause potentially fatal cardiovascular complications such as heart attack, deep vein thrombosis, or stroke.

To reduce the risk of complications, you can:

• Stop smoking at least six weeks before the surgery
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid taking certain medicines like aspirin
• Grow your hair out to cover your scars
• Have a driver ready to take you home after your procedure
• Have someone available to take care of you during your first night and day following surgery