Numbness on Forehead After Brow Lift

Transient numbness after open or endoscopic brow lift is very common. Often times, the nerve which provides sensation to the forehead doesn't function properly secondary to swelling and bruising of the nerve. This is referred to as a neuropraxic nerve injury. Normal recovery of sensation is expected, but it can take several months to 2 years. The nerve in question (supraorbital nerve) will slowly regenerate fibers at a maximal rate of 1 mm/day (an inch/month). You may experience paresthesias (electrical jolts or a marching sensation) as nerve recovery happens. The pressure you describe is also quite normal.
Best of luck.

Numbness and some sensory changes are often temporary and can last up to 6 months or so. It is rare for it to be permanent.

Hello! Thank you for your question! Numbness after any surgical
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following. As the
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction. This usually
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure
performed, sometimes much longer. Typically this should resolve by 1
year. As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation
returning is small. However, it can take up to 2 years. If no return
from there, it is unlikely to return. It should be discussed that
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical
procedure. The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then
occasional sharp, shock-like pains. These will be normal to experience,
and actually a promising sign. Usually, normal sensation returns, but
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased
sensation to the areas affected. Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc. If
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity. You can try various textures
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc. Massaging the areas is
also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible. The
last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
location. If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted. After
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has
developed and may require surgical excision. This is very unlikely
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during
the procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

Return of forehead sensation after brow lift can improve over a two year period subsequent to the surgical procedure.
There are many different techniques utilized and it is difficult to assess the potential for nerve injury from your description.
We are generally more concerned with the motor nerve as this is more vulnerable to permanent injury.
It will likely come back with time. In the meantime protect it from injury or sun burn.
Generally as time proceeds you will appreciated a "marching" return of sensation. Nerves return and grow an average of 1 inch per month.

Patients can occasionally feel some numbness after surgery.  However, this usually resolves in several months.  I would definitely talk to your surgeon about this if you have any concerns.  

Dr. Cat Begovic M.D.