Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery in Menomonie

Whether you need a simple in-office cosmetic procedure or major reconstructive surgery, you can be assured your expectations of a positive experience throughout your service will be met. You'll receive a personalized, confidential consultation for your skin care, cosmetic procedures, plastic surgery or reconstructive surgery needs. Our goal is to help you create a look so good it’s natural.

Surgical facial services

Brow lift surgery

What is a brow lift?

A brow lift is a cosmetic surgery that raises the eyebrows and smooths the forehead. Sometimes called a forehead lift, this procedure repositions skin and underlying tissue to improve the appearance of the brow, forehead and upper eye area.

A brow lift may be performed on its own or combined with other facial procedures, such as eyelid surgery or a facelift.

Who may benefit

You may consider a brow lift if you have:

• Low or sagging eyebrows
• Uneven brow position
• A tired, angry or sad appearance caused by brow drooping
• Excess upper eyelid skin related to a lowered brow

Why it’s done

As we age, skin and soft tissues lose elasticity, allowing the brows to gradually move downward. This can shorten the space between the eyebrows and eyelashes and affect facial expression. A brow lift restores a more open, refreshed appearance by repositioning the brows.

Risks to consider

All surgical procedures carry risk.

Possible brow lift risks include:

• Scarring
• Temporary or permanent numbness of the forehead or scalp
• Uneven brow position
• Hairline changes or hair loss near incision sites
• Bleeding, infection or anesthesia-related complications

Your surgeon will review these risks and help you decide if surgery is right for you.

Preparing for surgery

Before surgery, you’ll meet with a plastic or facial plastic surgeon to review your medical history, discuss goals and examine your facial anatomy.

You may be asked to:

• Stop smoking before and after surgery
• Avoid certain medications and supplements
• Arrange transportation and help during early recovery

During the procedure

Brow lift surgery is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center using sedation or general anesthesia. Several surgical techniques are available, including endoscopic, temporal, direct, coronal and hairline approaches. Your surgeon will recommend the method best suited to your needs and hairline.

Surgery usually takes one to two hours.

Recovery and aftercare

After surgery, mild swelling, bruising, itching or numbness is common and typically improves over time.

You may be advised to:

• Rest with your head elevated
• Use cold compresses to reduce swelling
• Avoid pressure or strain near incision sites

Bandages are usually removed within a few days, and stitches within one to two weeks. Swelling may last several weeks. Incision lines fade gradually and can often be concealed with makeup once healing allows.

Seek medical care right away if you experience sudden swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats.

Results

A brow lift can create a smoother forehead and a more youthful, alert appearance. While results are long‑lasting, they are not permanent. Aging and sun exposure will continue to affect the skin over time.

Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tissue from the upper and/or lower eyelids. Aging can cause eyelid skin to loosen and fat to shift, leading to drooping upper lids, under‑eye bags, and a tired appearance. In some cases, sagging eyelids can also limit side vision. Blepharoplasty can improve vision when medically necessary and help restore a more alert, refreshed look.

Why eyelid surgery is done

Blepharoplasty may be recommended if you have:

• Drooping upper eyelids
• Excess eyelid skin that affects peripheral vision
• Bags or puffiness under the eyes
• Loose skin on the lower eyelids

Eyelid surgery may be performed alone or combined with other procedures, such as a brow lift or facelift. Insurance coverage may apply when the surgery is needed to correct vision problems.

Risks to consider

All surgery carries some risk. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, dry or irritated eyes, scarring, temporary vision changes, or the need for additional surgery. Your care team will review potential risks and help determine whether this procedure is right for you.

Preparing for blepharoplasty

Before surgery, you’ll meet with a surgical specialist to review your medical history, eye health, and treatment goals. Preparation may include an eye exam, vision testing, and eyelid photographs. You may be asked to stop certain medications, quit smoking, and arrange for transportation home after surgery.

What to expect

During surgery:
Blepharoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure. Small incisions are made along natural eyelid creases or inside the lower eyelid to remove or reposition excess tissue.

Recovery:
Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common and usually improve within one to two weeks. Most people return home the same day and resume normal activities gradually, following their provider’s instructions.

Seek immediate medical care for chest pain, shortness of breath, severe eye pain, heavy bleeding, or sudden vision changes.

Results

Many people report looking more rested and confident after eyelid surgery. When performed for vision concerns, blepharoplasty can also improve daily function. Results are long‑lasting for many patients, though natural aging continues over time.

Watch this video to find out what to expect with an eyelid lift, also known as blepharoplasty:

Not all treatments, tests and services are available at all Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Check with your preferred location in advance.