When it comes to facial procedures, there are plenty of options available. From non-surgical treatments like volumising and wrinkle treatments to surgical procedures, such as Facelifts and Blepharoplasty, the field of plastic surgery offers many ways to change and alter your appearance. Among these techniques, Brow Lift procedures have long been a popular choice for those seeking to address the upper face. The Gliding Brow Lift is a specific technique that specifically targets the brow area.
Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Michael Kernohan has extensive experience in performing a wide range of facial procedures, including Facelift, Neck lift, Brow lift, and Blepharoplasty.
To better understand the GBL, it’s helpful to become familiar with the evolution of brow lift procedures. Historically, brow lifts have been performed using various methods, each with its own advantages and limitations.
The journey began with the traditional coronal brow lift, a technique that involved a long incision across the scalp from ear to ear. While effective, this method often resulted in visible scarring and a somewhat ‘surprised’ look. As surgical techniques advanced, the endoscopic brow lift emerged in the 1990s. This approach used small incisions and a camera-guided system, reducing scarring and recovery time.
Following this, the temporal brow lift gained popularity, focusing on lifting the outer third of the brow. However, this technique, provides more limited results. Then there was the development of a direct brow lift, which involved incisions just above the eyebrows, this technique offered precise control but left visible scars.
It’s within this context that the Gliding Brow Lift emerged. Developed to address the limitations of previous techniques, the GBL aims to provide aesthetically pleasing results. This new approach represents the latest step in the ongoing evolution of brow lift procedures.
The Gliding Brow Lift, or GBL, is an advanced surgical technique designed to address the upper face by elevating the eyebrows and reducing forehead wrinkles. Unlike traditional brow lift methods, the GBL employs a unique approach that works with your facial anatomy to create optimal results.
At its core, the GBL involves making small incisions within the hairline, through which Dr Kernohan can access and reposition the underlying tissues. The ‘gliding’ aspect of the technique refers to the gentle, controlled movement of these tissues upwards, effectively lifting the brows and opening up the eye area.
What sets the GBL apart from traditional techniques is its focus on preserving movement and expression. While older methods often resulted in a ‘frozen’ or overly tight appearance, the GBL aims to maintain your ability to form expressions. This is achieved by carefully manipulating the soft tissues and adjusting the position of key muscles, rather than simply pulling the skin taut.
Compared to traditional brow lifts, the GBL offers several advantages:
The GBL is grounded in a deep understanding of facial anatomy and leverages advanced surgical techniques to achieve optimal results.
Anatomically, the procedure focuses on the forehead and brow complex, which includes the frontalis muscle (responsible for raising your eyebrows), the corrugator muscles (which create frown lines), and the procerus muscle (which causes horizontal lines across the bridge of your nose). The GBL technique manipulates these structures to alter your appearance.
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
This methodology allows for precise control and customisation, enabling Dr Kernohan to tailor the procedure to your unique facial structure and goals. The ‘gliding’ aspect of the technique helps achieve optimal results, whilst avoiding the tight or pulled appearance sometimes associated with traditional lifts.
While the Gliding Brow Lift can be an option for some people, it’s important to understand that not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. Your suitability for a GBL will depend on various factors, which Dr Kernohan will evaluate during your consultation.
Typically, good candidates for a GBL include:
Factors that may affect your suitability for a GBL include:
It’s worth noting that younger patients with only slight ptosis/excess skin might be better suited to less invasive treatments, while those with very severe brow ptosis might require more extensive techniques. Additionally, if you have a high hairline, Dr Kernohan might recommend alternative approaches to avoid further raising the hairline.
During your consultation, Dr Kernohan will thoroughly assess these factors and discuss your goals to determine whether a GBL is the most appropriate option for you.
Being aware of the process of undergoing a Gliding Brow Lift and what to expect during recovery can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for the procedure. Here’s an overview of what you can anticipate:
Before your GBL, you’ll have an intial consultation with Dr Kernohan. This is your opportunity to discuss your goals, ask questions, and undergo a physical examination. He will explain the procedure in detail, discuss potential risks and benefits, and provide pre-operative instructions.
The GBL is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia.
The procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of work required.
Dr Michael Kernohan will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including how to care for your incisions, when to follow up, and any activities to avoid during recovery. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to ensure optimal healing and results.
As with any surgical procedure, the Gliding Brow Lift (GBL) does come with potential risks and complications. While these are generally rare, especially when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, it’s important that you’re fully informed. Here are some of the potential risks and complications associated with the GBL procedure:
Make sure to discuss these potential risks and complications thoroughly with Dr Kernohan during your consultation. He can provide more detailed information based on your individual case and medical history.