Often, signs of aging are most noticeable in the face and neck. A wrinkled forehead and a sagging brow can make people look and feel older than they are. Typically, this leads to patients seeking cosmetic surgery for a long-term solution. After much research, patients understand their options to include two treatments., and wonder which will provide the best answer to their unique circumstances. Brow lift vs Botox? Determining the best answer for you requires a little more information. Simply put, a brow lift may offer better long-term results, however, Botox is non-invasive and can be just as effective. Learn more about the differences here so you can have an educated discussion with your doctor.
What is a brow lift?
A brow lift is a surgical procedure that reduces the wrinkle lines that develop across the forehead. It can also smooth out wrinkles that occur on the bridge of the nose and between the eyes. Your surgeon raises sagging brows that are hooding the upper eyelids and places the eyebrows in an alert and youthful position.
What is the procedure like?
You will arrive one hour before your procedure to fill out any necessary paperwork. Your medical team will then prepare you for surgery. There are two ways to approach the procedure: the coronal approach and an endoscopy approach. Using the coronal approach, your surgeon will make an incision through the hairline and lift the entire scalp. However, the more popular technique is endoscopically-assisted. This requires several small incisions in the hairline and repositioning of the forehead with suspension on dissolving clips. The procedure usually takes approximately one hour.
How long is brow lift surgery recovery?
Recovery from either approach to brow lift surgery is usually less than one week. After that time, your staples will be removed and you will be able to go out in public and resume your regular day-to-day activities.
What is Botox?
Botox is FDA-approved for use in treating forehead and frown lines, as well as crow’s feet. The injectable helps muscles relax. This temporarily smoothes out lines and wrinkles.
Botox is a popular treatment as it takes only a few minutes to inject, with little to no downtime, and is less expensive than surgery. Also, you won’t experience bruising or stitches like you would with surgery.
How does it work?
Botox injections use a toxin called onobotulinumtoxinA to temporarily prevent a muscle from moving. This toxin is a tiny microbe that prevents your nerves from sending signals to the muscles to contract.
Are there any side effects or risks to be aware of?
Typically, Botox injections are safe when performed by an experienced doctor. Possible side effects and complications include the following.
- Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site
- Headache or flu-like symptoms
- Droopy eyelid or cockeyed eyebrows
- Crooked smile or drooling
- Eye dryness or excessive tearing
It is very unlikely, however, some patients have reported instances of the toxin in the injection spreading through the body. Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the following effects hours to weeks after receiving Botox:
- Muscle weakness
- Vision problems
- Trouble speaking or swallowing
- Breathing problems
- Loss of bladder control
Botox is non-invasive, and associated risks and side effects are minimal and very rare.
Choosing the right plastic surgeon matters
When it comes to deciding between a brow lift vs Botox, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. The right plastic surgeon will explain the details of each option and answer any lingering questions that you may have. Honest communication is so important when it comes to making medical decisions. Make sure you are choosing a surgeon who has your best interest at heart and makes you feel at ease. To learn more about brow lift surgery, as well as treatment like Botox, reach out to the team at Berlet Plastic Surgery today. We have over 2o years of experience helping patients in the northern NJ and NYC area. Contact us to learn more!