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Definition

A brow lift, also known as a browplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that lifts and tightens the skin on the forehead and around the eyebrows. This reconstructive surgery helps reduce wrinkles, sagging eyebrows and extra skin, giving the face a more youthful and refreshed look.

Alternative names

Browplasty; Forehead lift; Eyebrow lift; Temple lift (when combined with another lift surgery)

Description

A brow lift procedure usually involves lifting and repositioning the skin on the forehead, the eyebrows and the muscles underneath. It’s performed to treat signs of aging, such as sagging eyebrows and forehead wrinkles. There are several techniques for brow lifting, including:

• Endoscopic brow lift: A less-invasive option that uses small incisions and a camera to help the surgeon lift and reposition the skin
• Hairline brow lift: For people with a high hairline, this technique moves the hairline while lifting the eyebrows
• Temporal brow lift: Focuses on the outer part of the eyebrow and is often done with eyelid surgery
• Traditional brow lift: Makes an incision along the hairline to lift the forehead skin and remove extra tissue

The facial plastic surgery technique that is used depends on the patient’s specific needs and the results they want.

Treatments

While the brow lift itself is a surgical procedure, there are nonsurgical treatments for those who want less-invasive options or enhancements:

• Botox or Dysport
• Dermal fillers

Before the procedure

Before a brow lift surgery, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss expectations, medical history and any underlying conditions. Two weeks before your cosmetic procedure, it’s important to:

• Arrange for post-procedure care
• Avoid blood thinners
• Stop smoking

After the procedure

After your brow lift procedure, make sure you:

• Attend follow-up appointments
• Avoid straining
• Elevate your head
• Limit sun exposure
• Manage swelling and bruising
• Resting

Potential side effects

Though brow lifts are generally safe, there are potential complications, including:

• Asymmetry
• Hair loss
• Infection
• Numbness
• Scarring

Outlook (prognosis)

Brow lift recovery will depend on the method used and the individual’s lifestyle changes, but generally, swelling and bruising peak within the first 2-3 days and should go down within 1-2 weeks. If stitches are used during the surgery, they are usually removed 7-10 days after surgery. Most people can return to work within 7-10 days, but avoiding strenuous activities for 2-4 weeks is important. It may take up to six months to see the final brow lift results as the skin settles into its new position.

The effects of a brow lift can last for many years, though aging will continue. Treatments like Botox may be needed to maintain a fresh look.

With proper care and following your plastic surgeon’s instructions, recovery should go smoothly, and the results can last for years, leaving you with a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Related specialties

• Plastic surgery

This entry was written by Jennifer Cruz-Urbano, marketing specialist, and reviewed for accuracy by Kalyan C. Dadireddy, MD. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.