A forehead lift, regardless of exact method, elevates the forehead and eyebrows. Each method of surgery requires some form of anesthesia, either general or IV sedation (twilight). Both have similar cosmetic outcomes.
The difference between a traditional forehead lift and an endoscopic brow lift is the approach, or surgical access, to the brow area. Traditional forehead lifts made a long incision either right at the hairline, or just behind the hairline. This approach allows greater degree of control to brow position. Disadvantages are the longer incision, longer operative time, itching, and higher risk of hair loss.
Endoscopic brow lift, or endobrow, is the newer and less invasive approach for cosmetic brow and forehead enhancement. Much smaller incisions are hidden within the hairline. A camera or endoscope is used to visualize the brow area. This technique for brow lifts requires more advanced training. Benefits include shorter operative time, smaller incisions, much less itching, lower risk of hair loss, and faster recovery.
Endobrows are generally the preferred method of cosmetic enhancement of the forehead and brow, and applicable to most patients. However, each patient has specific cosmetic needs and particular anatomy, so endobrows may not be the ideal approach for everyone. Speak to your plastic surgeon to help decide which method is right for you.
