Brow Lift Surgery Aftercare

It is normal to have some bruising and swelling after brow lift surgery. Bruising gets better in about 2 weeks. Much of the swelling improves in 6 weeks, but you may continue to have some swelling for 2-3 months after surgery. Bruising and swelling sometimes starts along the hairline and forehead area but can shift down towards the eyes and cheeks as it gets better. This is normal.

• Call the office immediately if you experience any of the following:
  • Sudden excessive pain, temperature over 100 degrees, excessive bleeding
• You should apply Vaseline along the incisions 3-4 times a day.
• You can shower 48 hours after surgery. Soap and water can run over the incisions and the surgical tape but be careful not to scrub or rub directly on the incisions while washing or drying off. Be gentle. Pat dry.
• NO baths, Jacuzzis, saunas, steam rooms, swimming, or submerging the incisions until after the incisions have completely healed. This is typically at least 4 weeks after surgery. You may swim or take baths sooner if you do not submerge your head underwater.
• Do NOT take Aspirin, Aspirin-containing drugs, or Vitamin E for 2 weeks after surgery.
• No alcohol for 2 weeks after surgery.
• Arnica Montana is a homeopathic anti-inflammatory that can help swelling and bruising to resolve more quickly. It is available over the counter at most pharmacies in oral tablets or topical forms (gel, cream). You can apply to the skin where there is bruising and swelling but not directly over incisions. You can start the oral tablet 1-2 days before surgery or use the tablets or topicals after surgery.
• Driving is typically OK 5-7 days after surgery. The swelling must be improved enough so you can see clearly, you must be able to safely get in and out of the car, move your body enough to see behind you, and not be taking any of the following medications: gabapentin, tramadol, oxycodone, diazepam (Valium).
• You may use some frozen peas in a baggie to place gently over the eyes. This should be applied on the skin for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes, as often as possible when awake to help with swelling.
• If using a blowdryer for your hair, use it on a cool setting for the first 2 weeks after surgery. Excessive heat may cause an accidental burn to the scalp.
• Makeup may be applied 1 week after surgery. Be very gentle when removing makeup.
• Avoid sun exposure to the face for 6 weeks after surgery. Use sunscreen thereafter.
• Do not lift/push/pull anything heavier than a gallon of milk for the first week after surgery. After 1 week, you may increase activity and lifting as tolerated.
• Avoid strenuous activity, lifting, or bending for 1 week after surgery. If you must pick something up from ground level, squatting is better than bending.