Brow Lift Surgery

Elevate sagging brows to restore a youthful and refreshed appearance.

What Is a Brow Lift Surgery?

Brow lift surgery, also known as a forehead lift, is a cosmetic procedure designed to elevate sagging eyebrows and smooth the forehead area. This procedure addresses concerns such as droopy brows, deep forehead wrinkles, and frown lines between the eyebrows, which can make the face appear tired, angry, or aged. By repositioning the brows to a more youthful and natural position, a brow lift enhances facial symmetry and restores a refreshed appearance.

This surgery is tailored to each individual’s needs and facial anatomy, ensuring results that look balanced and harmonious. Brow lift surgery is often sought as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan, providing long-lasting aesthetic and functional improvements. For more information about techniques, candidacy, and recovery, please explore the additional sections on this page.

Before and After Comparison

Surgical Techniques

Advanced Surgical Approaches

There are multiple advanced techniques used to perform a brow lift, each tailored to the patient’s needs and anatomy

The right technique for you will be determined based on factors such as the severity of brow sagging, hairline position, and overall facial structure.

Endoscopic Brow Lift

A minimally invasive technique involving small incisions hidden within the hairline. A tiny camera (endoscope) guides the surgeon in repositioning the brow tissue. This method results in less scarring, reduced recovery time, and a natural look.

Coronal Brow Lift

A traditional technique involving a longer incision across the scalp behind the hairline. This method allows for significant brow repositioning and long-lasting results but requires a longer recovery time.

Temporal (Limited) Brow Lift

A less invasive approach that focuses on lifting the outer portion of the brows. It is ideal for patients who need subtle improvement in lateral brow positioning.

Direct Brow Lift

An option for patients with thick forehead skin, where an incision is made directly above the brows. This technique is often used in cases of severe brow ptosis or for those who cannot undergo more invasive procedures.

Who is the Right Candidate?

Understanding if this procedure is right for you

You may be a suitable candidate for a brow lift if you experience:

  • Low-set or sagging eyebrows that create a tired or aged appearance.
  • Deep forehead wrinkles or frown lines between the brows (glabellar lines).
  • Eyebrow asymmetry affecting facial balance.
  • Upper eyelid hooding due to brow descent.
  • A desire for a more youthful, refreshed look without altering natural facial expressions.

Candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and not have any medical conditions that could interfere with healing. A consultation with an experienced surgeon will help determine the best approach for your unique needs.

Procedure Timeline

What to expect before, during, and after surgery

Pre-surgery (few days before)

A detailed consultation is conducted, including an evaluation of brow position, forehead movement, and skin elasticity. Pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding blood-thinning medications, will be provided.

Day of Surgery

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Depending on the technique used, the surgery can take 1-2 hours. Incisions are made either behind the hairline or directly above the brows, and the underlying tissue is lifted and secured in a more youthful position.

Post Surgery

Patients can return home the same day. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are expected, with initial healing occurring within two weeks. Final results develop over several months as the tissue settles into place.

Anesthesia Options

Understanding your anesthesia choices

The choice of anesthesia depends on the extent of the surgery and patient preference:

Available Options:

  • Local Anesthesia: Numbs the eye area while keeping you awake
  • Local Anesthesia with Sedation: Provides additional comfort and relaxation
  • General Anesthesia: Complete sleep throughout the procedure

Factors Influencing Choice:

  • Preference and desired comfort level expected by the patient
  • Extent of surgical correction to be done
  • Medical history and overall health
  • Duration of procedure

Recovery Process

Your journey to healing and recovery

Recovery from a brow lift is generally well-tolerated, but proper aftercare is essential for optimal results:

Immediate Post-Surgery (First 24 Hours)

  • Rest with head elevated
  • Apply cold compresses as directed
  • Take prescribed medications

Early Recovery (Days 1-7)

  • Manage swelling and bruising
  • Keep incisions clean
  • Attend follow-up appointment
  • Limited daily activities

Expected Benefits

Understanding the outcomes and improvements

A brow lift offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. Most patients experience increased confidence due to their rejuvenated, yet natural, facial appearance.

  • Elevated and naturally positioned brows, creating a more youthful and refreshed look.
  • Reduction in forehead wrinkles and frown lines, smoothing the upper face.
  • Improved upper eyelid appearance, reducing hooding and making the eyes appear more open.
  • Long-lasting results, often maintaining a rejuvenated look for 10-15 years or longer.

Risks and Complications

Important safety information to consider

While brow lifts are generally safe when performed by a skilled surgeon, some risks include:

  • Swelling and bruising, which are temporary and resolve over time.
  • Temporary numbness or itching around the incision sites.
  • Asymmetry, which may require revision surgery in rare cases.
  • Scarring, although incisions are strategically placed to be discreet.
  • Hairline changes, particularly with coronal brow lifts, though this is rare.

Careful surgical planning and adherence to post-operative care instructions help minimize these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Results typically last 10-15 years, though natural aging continues over time.

No, when performed by an experienced surgeon, a brow lift results in a natural, refreshed look rather than an overly pulled or surprised appearance.

Most patients return to work within 7-10 days, depending on their healing process and comfort level.

Incisions are placed within the hairline or in natural creases, making scars minimally noticeable once healed.

Yes, it is commonly combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or facelift procedures for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Learn More

Additional resources and references

Before & After Gallery