Classic Forehead Lift Surgery: Coronal Technique

The coronal brow lift, often considered the predecessor of modern brow rejuvenation procedures, is the oldest and most traditional method in this field. Some patients might feel concerned about opting for an older technique, thinking, “I don’t want an old method; isn’t there something new?”

First and foremost, don’t be afraid of classic aesthetic surgery techniques. Just as a classical music piece is performed and appreciated around the world centuries later, or a painting created 300 years ago still holds its multimillion-dollar value, some classic techniques in plastic surgery are just as valuable.

The coronal brow lift surgery begins with an incision within the hair-bearing scalp, running horizontally across the scalp. Through this incision, the tissue is released downwards towards the eyebrows, lifted upwards, and any excess tissue is removed. The procedure is completed with sutures placed within the hair-bearing scalp, hidden from view.

This technique is particularly indicated for patients with advanced forehead aging, significantly drooping eyebrows, severely wrinkled forehead skin, and a forehead height of less than 6 cm. By forehead height, we refer to the vertical distance between the eyebrows and the hairline.

The coronal brow lift permanently addresses the sagging of the forehead, eyebrows, and eyelids caused by gravity. It reduces forehead lines and is a quick procedure, often completed in under an hour, without requiring endoscopic surgery equipment.

Compared to more limited procedures like endoscopic brow lifts, temple lifts, or isolated brow lifts, the coronal brow lift is undoubtedly more effective. It is typically performed in cases where these less extensive procedures would be inadequate. Recurrences, such as the eyebrows drooping again or forehead wrinkles persisting, are much rarer after a coronal brow lift. Although it leaves a long scar, this scar is usually hidden within the hair-bearing scalp and often goes unnoticed in social settings. You can think of it as trading a visible deformity for an invisible scar.

The downside is that the scar within the hair-bearing scalp doesn't always heal as perfectly as we’d like. Sometimes, the scars can widen, hair loss can occur, and the scar might become noticeable, especially when swimming, at the beach, or at the hair salon. Another disadvantage is the frequent occurrence of sensory disturbances behind the incision, such as numbness, itching, or tingling. Therefore, this technique is not suitable for people with thinning hair, such as male patients. Additionally, because the forehead is stretched during the procedure, it can lengthen and widen, making it unsuitable for individuals with an already broad forehead and high hairline. In these cases, the coronal technique can further widen the forehead and create a more masculine appearance in female patients. Another potential disadvantage is that, if applied aggressively, this technique can raise the eyebrows excessively.

However, for candidates who have advanced forehead aging and severe eyebrow drooping, the benefits provided by this technique often make it a reasonable choice despite these drawbacks.

Finally, it’s important to note that while the coronal brow lift reduces facial expressions and expression wrinkles, it does not eliminate them. Patients with hyperactive facial expressions may continue with Botox injections after the surgery to manage wrinkles between the eyebrows and crow’s feet.

If you would like more detailed information about coronal brow lift surgery and to find out if this technique is suitable for you, please feel free to contact us.