Eyebrow and Forehead Lifting addresses eyebrow position and loose or wrinkled forehead skin and underlying tissue. To fully understand the benefits of eyebrow and forehead lifting, one must be aware of the importance of the position of the eyebrows.
Eyebrow position changes as we age.
Our natural eyebrow position, the effects of gravity and fat deflation, how active our eyebrow and forehead muscles are, and previous eyelid, eyebrow or forehead surgeries (if applicable), all contribute to the position our eyebrows are in today. The face sends a message, and the position of the eyebrows is a significant part of that message. That message could be, “I feel worried,” “I feel angry,” or “I feel stressed.” The message could also be, “I feel calm, rested, and relaxed.”There are several types of eyebrow and forehead lifts. The type you and your surgeon choose will depend on your current eyebrow position, facial structure, and on what is possible to maximize your appearance. The main types of forehead lifting are as follows:
Endoscopic Forehead Lift
The Endoscopic Eyebrow/ Forehead Lift is very popular. It requires 3 or 5 small incisions hidden in the hair and leaves no visible scar. This procedure can lift everything from the hairline to the eyebrows. It tightens and smoothes the entire forehead while lifting the eyebrow area which “opens up” the entire upper face. Eyebrow shape and asymmetry can be addressed with this type of lift. Following the procedure there will be some bruising and swelling. Patients are usually comfortable returning to their normal routine activities in about 2 weeks.
The Pretrichial Eyebrow/ Forehead
The Pretrichial Eyebrow/ Forehead Lift requires a long incision. This procedure is ideal for patients who want to both lift the eyebrows and raise and shorten the forehead by removing a strip of skin and underlying tissue along the incision. Because the forehead is shortened, the hairline is lowered which is ideal for those with a high forehead. This procedure lifts everything from the hairline down to the eyebrows and can address eyebrow shape and asymmetry. The scar from the incision, once healed, is virtually undetectable. Following the procedure there will be some bruising and swelling. Patients usually return to their normal daily routine in 2 – 3 weeks
The “Gull Wing” or Direct Brow Lift
The “Gull Wing” or Direct Brow Lift requires removing a section of skin and underlying tissue above and following the length of the eyebrows. This procedure is ideal for those who do not want to involve the hairline. The “Gull Wing” beautifully lifts a sagging brow while tightening and smoothing the forehead by pulling the skin and tissue of the forehead down rather than up. It therefore lowers the hairline which is ideal for a receding hairline and/ or a high forehead. This procedure also addresses eyebrow shape and asymmetry. Care is taken to position the scar just along the eyebrows so that it is maximally camouflaged. Patients will experience some bruising and swelling following the procedure. They are usually comfortable returning to their normal routine activities in about 2 weeks.
As a board-certified, fellowship trained oculoplastic surgeon with extensive training and experience, Dr. Selena Fu customizes each treatment to reflect each patient’s unique anatomy, skin condition, aesthetic concerns and lifestyle— an approach that consistently delivers excellent results for her patients.
Call for a personal consultation today, Dr. Fu will discuss the surgical and non-surgical options that will provide your best possible outcome. Insurance may cover all or a portion of reconstructive surgeries.
A brow and forehead lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to elevate the eyebrows, smooth forehead wrinkles, and reduce sagging skin in the upper face. The goal is to create a more youthful, refreshed, and alert appearance.
While a brow and forehead lift is generally safe, potential risks include:
Seek medical attention if you experience:
Phase | What to Expect |
---|---|
Before Surgery | Consultation, anesthesia plan, pre-surgery precautions |
During Surgery | Brow lift technique chosen, 1-2 hour procedure |
First 48 Hours | Swelling, bruising, mild tightness or numbness |
First Week | Stitches removed, return to light activities |
2-4 Weeks | Swelling fades, brow position stabilizes |
3-6 Months | Final results, scars fade |
A brow and forehead lift is a great way to restore a youthful, refreshed appearance while reducing forehead wrinkles and sagging brows. If you’re considering this procedure, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for your needs.
A brow and forehead lift is a cosmetic surgery that lifts the eyebrows and smooths forehead wrinkles. It corrects sagging brows, deep forehead lines, and frown lines, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
✔ Lifts sagging brows that make you look tired or angry.
✔ Smooths forehead wrinkles and frown lines.
✔ Opens the eyes for a brighter, refreshed appearance.
✔ Can improve vision if drooping brows obstruct eyesight.
You may be a candidate if you:
No, when performed correctly, a brow lift enhances your natural look without over-elevating the brows. A skilled surgeon ensures a subtle, youthful result.
Recovery Phase | What to Expect |
---|---|
First 48 hours | Swelling, bruising, mild discomfort; use cold compresses. |
First week | Sutures removed in 7-10 days; light activities resume. |
2-3 weeks | Swelling reduces, and results become more visible. |
3-6 months | Full healing, scars fade, and final results appear. |
Yes! Many patients combine a brow lift with:
Although rare, risks include:
Feature | Brow Lift | Botox |
---|---|---|
Effectiveness | Long-lasting (10-15 years) | Temporary (3-6 months) |
Procedure Type | Surgical | Non-surgical |
Downtime | 1-2 weeks | None |
Wrinkle Reduction | Yes | Yes |
Cost | Higher | Lower |
A brow lift provides permanent structure enhancement, while Botox is a temporary fix for mild sagging.
Yes! Many men opt for brow lifts to achieve a natural, youthful look without looking overdone.
A brow and forehead lift is an excellent way to rejuvenate the upper face, smooth wrinkles, and lift sagging brows for a refreshed, youthful appearance!