What is a Brow and Forehead Lift?

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.

What to Expect from a Brow and Forehead Lift

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.

Before the Surgery

1. Consultation & Pre-Surgical Planning

Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your facial structure, skin elasticity, and brow position.
Discuss your aesthetic goals and whether you need an endoscopic, coronal, or temporal brow lift.
You may also discuss combining the procedure with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or Botox for optimal results.
If you have a high forehead, the surgeon may adjust the incision placement to avoid making it appear longer.

2. Pre-Surgery Preparations

Stop smoking and alcohol at least 2-4 weeks before surgery.
Avoid blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen) for at least 1 week.
Arrange for transportation home after surgery, as you may have swelling that affects your vision.

During the Surgery

1. Anesthesia

Usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the technique.

2. Procedure Duration

Takes 1-2 hours, depending on the technique and whether additional procedures (like eyelid surgery) are performed.

3. Surgical Techniques

Endoscopic Brow Lift: Minimally invasive, small incisions hidden in the scalp.
Coronal Brow Lift: Traditional method with a longer incision across the scalp.
Temporal Brow Lift: Lifts the outer eyebrows, using small incisions near the temples.
Trichophytic Brow Lift: Incision at the hairline, ideal for patients with high foreheads.

Recovery Process

1. First 24-48 Hours

Swelling and bruising peak during this time.
Mild discomfort, tightness, or numbness in the forehead and scalp.
Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.

2. First Week

Sutures or staples are usually removed in 7-10 days.
Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activity.
Most patients return to work in 10-14 days, depending on swelling.

3. Weeks 2-4

Swelling gradually decreases, and results become more visible.
Incisions start to heal, and scars fade over time.

4. 3-6 Months (Final Results)

The brow position stabilizes, and residual swelling completely resolves.
Scars (if any) continue to fade, blending into natural skin creases or hairline.

Possible Risks & Complications

While a brow and forehead lift is generally safe, potential risks include:

Temporary numbness or tightness in the forehead.
Scarring (minimal with endoscopic techniques).
Hairline changes (only in coronal brow lifts).
Asymmetry (rare but correctable).
Mild hair thinning near incisions (temporary).

Long-Term Results & Maintenance

Results typically last 10-15 years.
Aging will continue, but the procedure delays forehead sagging.
Maintain results with good skincare, sun protection, and non-surgical treatments (e.g., Botox or fillers).

When to Contact Your Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

Severe pain or excessive swelling.
Signs of infection (redness, pus, fever).
Uneven healing or unexpected asymmetry.

Summary of Expectations

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Brow and Forehead Lift

1. What is a brow and forehead lift?

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.

2. What are the benefits of a brow and forehead lift?

✔ 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.

3. Who is a good candidate for a brow and forehead lift?

You may be a candidate if you:

Have low, sagging eyebrows.
Notice deep forehead wrinkles or frown lines.
Have hooded upper eyelids due to brow drooping.
Are in good overall health with realistic expectations.

4. What are the different types of brow and forehead lifts?

Endoscopic Brow Lift – Minimally invasive with small incisions in the scalp; faster recovery.
Coronal Brow Lift – Traditional long incision across the scalp, best for severe sagging.
Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift – Lifts outer brows with small incisions near the temples.
Trichophytic Brow Lift – Performed at the hairline to avoid raising the forehead.
Direct Brow Lift – Removes excess skin above the brows, often for older patients.

5. How long does the surgery take?

The procedure typically lasts 1-2 hours, depending on the technique used.

6. What type of anesthesia is used?

Local anesthesia with sedation (minimally invasive techniques).
General anesthesia (for more extensive procedures).

7. Will a brow lift make me look surprised?

No, when performed correctly, a brow lift enhances your natural look without over-elevating the brows. A skilled surgeon ensures a subtle, youthful result.

8. Will there be visible scars?

Endoscopic and temporal brow lifts leave minimal scarring hidden in the hairline.
Coronal brow lifts have a longer incision but are concealed in the scalp.
Direct brow lifts may have more noticeable scars above the brows.

9. How long is the recovery process?

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.

10. Does a brow and forehead lift affect my hairline?

Coronal brow lifts may slightly raise the hairline.
Trichophytic brow lifts are performed at the hairline to avoid this issue.
Endoscopic and temporal lifts have minimal impact on the hairline.

11. When can I return to normal activities?

Work: 7-10 days after surgery.
Strenuous exercise: Avoid for 3-4 weeks.
Makeup application: After 2 weeks.

12. Can a brow lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes! Many patients combine a brow lift with:

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) – To improve sagging eyelids.
Facelift – For full facial rejuvenation.
Botox or fillers – To enhance results by reducing wrinkles.

13. What are the risks of a brow and forehead lift?

Although rare, risks include:

Temporary forehead numbness or tightness.
Mild asymmetry (usually correctable).
Hair thinning near incision sites.
Scarring (minimal with endoscopic techniques).

14. How long do the results last?

A brow lift typically lasts 10-15 years.
Aging continues, but proper skincare and sun protection help maintain results.

15. How does a brow lift compare to Botox?

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.

16. Will my vision improve after a brow lift?

If drooping brows obstruct your vision, lifting them can improve your sight.
In some cases, insurance may cover the procedure if vision obstruction is documented.

17. Is a brow lift permanent?

While long-lasting, a brow lift cannot stop aging.
Over time, gravity and skin aging may cause slight brow descent.

18. Can men get a brow and forehead lift?

Yes! Many men opt for brow lifts to achieve a natural, youthful look without looking overdone.

19. How much does a brow and forehead lift cost?

Costs range from $3,500 – $7,500, depending on the technique and surgeon’s expertise.

20. How do I schedule a consultation?

If you’re considering a brow and forehead lift, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best approach for your face shape and goals.

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!