Brow lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure used to raise your upper eyelids and make the eyebrows appear more natural, removing the excess skin from the forehead and under them. Before deciding if brow lift surgery is right for you, you should consult with a facial plastic surgeon who can evaluate your face in person and give you an idea of what to expect.
In this guide, we review the aspects of Eye Brow Lift Procedure, types of brow lift surgery, botox brow lift, and endoscopic brow lift.
Eye Brow Lift Procedure
The eye brow lift is a surgical procedure that lifts the upper eyelid, improves the appearance of your eyes, and can make you look younger. It’s often performed on patients who have been through other facial procedures such as facelifts or liposuction.
What Are the Benefits of an Eye Brow Lift?
- The procedure can help to reduce wrinkles, fine lines and crow’s feet around the eyes.
- It can also help to reduce bags and dark circles under your eyes.
- An eye brow lift will lift your eyelids and improve your vision by making it easier for you to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses.
- In addition to improving the appearance of your face, an eye brow lift may make you look younger than before!
Who is a Candidate for a Brow Lift?
- You are a candidate if you have sagging skin and drooping brows.
- You are a candidate if you have a tired, aged appearance.
- You are a candidate if you want to look younger and more alert.
- You are a candidate if you have had a previous brow lift but want additional tightening that can only be performed by an experienced surgeon who understands the anatomy of your face, knows how to modify his technique based on your unique features, and has results that are consistently beautiful and natural looking (no “surgery face”).
What Are the Risks of Brow Lift Surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. The most common complications include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the incision site
- Swelling of the eyelids and face (can be severe)
- Infection at the incision sites or surrounding tissue
How Much Does Brow Lift Surgery Cost?
The cost of a brow lift surgery depends on the type of procedure you choose. A forehead lift costs about $10,000, while a coronal brow lift is more expensive at $12,000 to $15,000. Other procedures can cost even more; for example, if you also have an eyelid surgery with your brow lift then it may add another $5,000 or so to your total bill.
The average price range for all forms of cosmetic procedures ranges from about $2,100 to $6,500 depending on location and provider type (e.g., surgeon vs non-surgical).
What Is Brow Lift Surgery Like?
A brow lift is a procedure that lifts and tightens sagging skin around the eyes. It’s done under local anesthesia, so you will be awake during the entire procedure but won’t feel any pain.
The incision is made along your hairline and extends across both eyebrows to just above where they meet in the middle of your forehead. The surgeon then lifts up this skin with tiny stitches (called mattress sutures), removes excess fat from beneath it, and tightens underlying muscles before closing up the incision with dissolvable stitches on either side of your nose.
When Can I See the Results of My Brow Lift Procedure?
The results of your brow lift procedure can be seen immediately, but it will take a few weeks for swelling to subside. The incision site will continue to heal for several weeks after surgery and should be completely healed by six weeks post-surgery. It’s important that you follow all instructions given by your doctor so that healing continues smoothly without complications or unwanted results.
Your brows may settle within three months after surgery; however, they may also remain slightly elevated throughout their lifetime due to the nature of this procedure (which lifts tissue). If this is something you’re concerned about, talk with your doctor about possible options for further revision surgeries later on down the road if necessary!
Why Choose Dr.Wong for Your Eye Brow Lift?
Dr. Wong is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has been practicing for over 20 years. He has performed over 1000 brow lift procedures and his patients have consistently praised him for his professionalism, skill and attention to detail in achieving their desired results. Dr. Wong was voted one of the best plastic surgeons in Toronto by his peers in 2016 and 2017, as well as being named one of Canada’s Top Doctors by Canadian Living magazine (2017). In addition to being highly experienced with this procedure, Dr. Wong also holds membership with both The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) as well as The Ontario Medical Association (OMA).
A brow lift can rejuvenate your eyes and enhance your overall appearance.
A brow lift can rejuvenate your eyes and enhance your overall appearance.
In addition to lifting the brows, a brow lift also tightens the skin around the eyes. This helps reduce sagging skin that can make you look older than you actually are. The procedure also improves drooping eyelids, which may be caused by aging or weight loss. A brow lift can also improve hollowed cheeks and deep lines between your nose and mouth (nasolabial folds).
A candidate for a brow lift is anyone who has lost their youthful appearance due to age-related changes in their face or neck area.
- Risks include bleeding under the skin; infection; asymmetry (unevenness) of the eyelids after surgery; depression around one eye resulting from nerve damage during surgery; double vision if nerves were damaged during surgery causing paralysis of muscles controlling eye movement.* Costs vary widely depending on geographic location and surgeon experience/reputation but generally range between $5k – $10k.* Recovery takes several weeks with swelling lasting up until 3 months post-op.
types of brow lift surgery
The brow and forehead are often the first areas to show signs of aging. A brow lift (also called a forehead lift) raises the brows in order to remove the appearance of forehead wrinkles and ease frown lines, and may also improve the appearance of the upper eye.
The operation itself carefully removes excess fat and skin and tightens the muscles in the forehead area. It can also correct sagging brows or ease deep furrows between the eyes.
What You Need to Know
Why consider a brow lift?
A brow lift can improve the appearance of people of any age who have furrows or frown lines such as those caused by stress or muscle activity over time, or as the result of inherited conditions, such as a low, heavy brow or furrowed lines above the nose. A brow lift can also help reduce excess skin of the upper eyelids.
Different Methods for Brow Lift
The plastic surgeon begins with a careful analysis of the person’s face, noting where volume has been lost and gravity has caused pulling or sagging. The forehead lift procedure replaces the lost volume and gently pulls specific areas to achieve a younger appearance.
There are a few options for brow lifts.
Classic or coronal brow lift. Once the patient is under anesthesia, the surgeon makes a cut or incision that starts at about ear level and goes across the top of the forehead to the other ear. In some cases, the surgeon may place the incision at the hairline. The surgeon then carefully lifts the skin of the forehead, removes any excess tissue and fat, and realigns the muscles if necessary. The surgeon may place the eyebrows at a higher level. Excess skin is trimmed away.
Endoscopic brow lift. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in the operating room and involves small incisions hidden within the hair. Fiberoptic equipment gently releases and elevates the tissue of the brows. For most patients, bruising is minimal and the healing time is generally faster than with a classic approach.
Temporal Lift. This is a minimally invasive procedure that your facial cosmetic surgeon can perform under local anesthesia in the office. It is essentially a scaled-back version of the minimally invasive endoscopic brow lift and can produce excellent results with minimal downtime.
botox brow lift
These days, declaring that you’re going to get Botox is kind of like saying you’re running to the grocery store. The injectable treatment has made a name for itself over the past two decades as a solution for reducing the appearance of existing wrinkles and preventing new ones from forming as well as various medical uses such as excessing sweating. It’s so widespread, in fact, that botulinum toxin injections (which include the brand name Botox as well as injectables such as Dysport and Xeomin) were the most commonly administered cosmetic treatment of 2019 and 2020, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
The versatility of Botox is probably a major reason it’s so popular. When it comes to cosmetic uses alone, people rely on Botox for reducing forehead wrinkles, lifting the upper lip, or even creating a temporary brow lift. But what exactly is a Botox brow lift and what can one do for your face? Keep scrolling to find out more about the popular procedure.
First, What Is Botox, and How Does It Work?
You probably already know Botox can reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It does this thanks to a protein called botulinum toxin, says John Layke, D.O., plastic surgeon and co-founder of Beverly Hills MD. When a provider injects small amounts into a muscle, the botulinum toxin temporarily prohibits muscle contraction. “These proteins work by blocking receptors that allow for muscle contraction to occur,” explains Dr. Layke. That temporary paralysis of the muscle can prevent movement that causes the skin to crease, and as a result, Botox can contribute to the look of smoother skin and fewer or less pronounced wrinkles.
Botox treatments are not permanent, and results typically last three to four months. Since 2002, Botox has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic use for treating “crow’s feet” (on the sides of eyes), forehead lines, or “11 lines” between the eyebrows. (That said, additional off-label uses are common, and many experts believe they’re also safe.) Common side effects of Botox include bruising or swelling at the injection site, while rare side effects include temporary headaches or eyelid drooping that can last a few months.
So What Is a Botox Brow Lift?
Since Botox can temporarily pause your ability to contract a muscle, when injected into the forehead, it can slightly raise your eyebrows. For a Botox brow lift, “Botox is used to rebalance the forehead muscles to create a lifting effect to the brow,” explains Dr. Layke. To create this effect, the doctor will use “a range of 20 to 30 units, which are placed in the central part (Glabella) between the eyes and along the brow in a specific pattern to get at least a 5 mm lift.” Using Botox for the purpose of a brow lift is considered an “off-label” use of the injection, but is still a common practice among many credentialed injectors.
Lifting the brow is a common strategy for creating a youthful look, since the eyebrow can drift downward with age, as muscles stretch and skin loses some elasticity, according to Mount Sinai. At the same time, a brow lift can smoothen forehead wrinkles and make the eyes seem more awake. Injectors can use Botox or other botulinum toxin injections to create a temporary brow lift.
The Botox brow lift is less invasive than a surgical brow lift, which requires incisions and a week or more of downtime, according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. On the other hand, a surgical brow lift can have a more dramatic effect because the surgeon can remove excess muscle and skin from the forehead area, which can ultimately make the skin on the forehead look tauter.
Can a Botox Brow Lift Go Wrong?
You may have seen someone online or on TV with an extremely lifted brow that creates a perpetually surprised look. If you’re thinking of getting a brow lift but want to avoid that, make sure to check out before and after photos of clients your doctor has treated to get a sense of their work. “Typically, if placed incorrectly a common result leads to peaking of the outer brow, creating a ‘Spock-like’ look,” says Dr. Layke.
If it’s already too late for that, you’re not necessarily out of luck. Injectors can remedy a Botox brow lift gone wrong by injecting “small amounts of additional Botox in the correct areas,” says Dr. Layke. If the entire eyebrow is already lifted too high for your liking, there’s unfortunately not much you can do. You’ll just have to wait 10 to 12 weeks for the Botox to wear off and the eyebrows to fall back down again.
What Else You Should Know Before a Botox Brow Lift
If you’re interested in the treatment, the best way to find out whether a Botox brow lift is right for you is to meet with an experienced, qualified injector. (A board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist are your best options, though other physicians can administer Botox after receiving training and so can registered nurses and physician’s assistants in some states.) They can assess your brow shape in-office and let you know their predictions for how the injections will alter the appearance of your brows. Note the word “predictions,” as even seasoned injectors can’t say for certain how the results will show on your face.
endoscopic brow lift
The brows are typically one of the first areas of the face affected by aging. Their prominent role in facial expressions, gravitational descent of the brows and the forehead’s susceptibility to sun damage accelerates the aging process, leading to premature sagging. By about age 35, both men and women start to notice that their brows sit lower than they used to. This change is usually accompanied by an increase in wrinkling across the forehead and around the eyes and hooding of skin above the eyes. Though Botox and dermal fillers can effectively treat these creases in their early stages, advanced forehead laxity requires surgical care. At Eyelid & Facial Plastic Surgery Associates, Dr. Malena Amato uses brow lift surgery to restore the brows to a youthful position and smooth frown lines.
Patient Experiences
I had an upper and lower blepharoplasty and eye brow lift! I was frequently asked if I was tired. My eyelids were aging and they were making me look less alert. I’d heard of Dr. Amato’s wonderful work from another plastic surgery professional. I had a consultation with her and she answered all my questions and explained my options. She asked me what was bothering me about my eyes and addressed those concerns directly. I felt she also considered my full result so that my look would look natural and complete. I had my surgery a few days ago. It went smooth with Dr. Amato and her team at the surgery center making me feel comfortable and relaxed. Everyone was so caring and kind. I woke up after the surgery, and was made comfortable. By post op day one I didn’t need any meds for this procedure. Dr. Amato has remained in great communication. I’ve been icing my eyes regularly. I feel great. I’m excited for my result.
About Brow Lift Surgery
Brow lift surgery, also known as a forehead lift, involves the tightening of the tissues that support the forehead. Sometimes, depending on the type of brow lift being performed, excess skin is also removed during this procedure. Dr. Amato frequently combines brow lift surgery with blepharoplasty to rejuvenate the upper face and restore optimal vision completely (if the patient’s vision has been impacted by eyelid ptosis) or for the ideal aesthetic result. As an experienced oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Amato is well-versed in all types of brow lifting techniques, including the minimally invasive endoscopic brow lift; her goal is to offer the best procedure with minimal scarring for each patient.
Meet Malena Amato MD FACS
Learn more about the Georgetown and Stanford alumna and why you should visit Dr. Amato for your next procedure.
Endoscopic brow lift surgery is an excellent choice for eligible candidates because it dramatically reduces the amount of healing time needed after your procedure. Endoscopic brow lift surgery is usually performed under light IV sedation and lasts about an hour. This surgical technique also limits postoperative swelling and bruising, so most patients don’t experience noticeable discomfort during endoscopic brow lift recovery. Endoscopic brow lift surgery can be performed under local anesthesia.
During an endoscopic brow lift, several short incisions are made just behind the patient’s hairline. Dr. Amato then uses a tiny camera (called an endoscope) and delicate surgical instruments to gently manipulate the position of the tissues that support the forehead. The forehead is released, then lifted and fixed into place with self-dissolving sutures or implants. As the patient heals, his or her forehead tissue will become permanently attached to their new location. Dr. Amato often offers Botox® or other neuromodulators as a compliment to the forehead lift surgery to enhance the smooth forehead and brows in their new, elevated position. Be sure to ask Dr. Amato for endoscopic brow lift before and after photos.
Direct brow lift surgery involves the placement of a single incision above the brow, either hidden in the brow, forehead wrinkle, or behind the hairline. Several factors determine the surgical incision site, including the thickness of brows, depth of forehead furrows, and hairline. Some brow lifts can shorten a tall forehead by removing skin. In this technique, Dr. Amato accesses and releases the patient’s forehead muscles, then tightens and repositions them using self-dissolving sutures. Excess skin may be removed before the incision is closed. Direct brow lift surgery is usually recommended for mature patients (those over age 55) who have significant skin laxity or patients with deep forehead wrinkles or a high forehead. Brow lift surgery usually takes 30 to 60 minutes under local and light IV sedation.
Dr. Amato can combine brow lift surgery with various surgical and non-surgical therapies, including blepharoplasty, mid facelift, laser resurfacing, and Botox® injections, dermal fillers, or a liquid facelift for comprehensive revitalization. Feel free to discuss all your cosmetic concerns with her during your consultation; she’ll be happy to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets all your objectives.
What is Brow Lift Recovery Like?
Recovery from endoscopic brow lift surgery is generally one to two weeks for most healing. Most patients see a reduction in swelling and bruising after just 48 hours, and very little discomfort post-operatively. We recommend taking about one week off work following an endoscopic brow lift.
Recovery from direct brow lift surgery takes 10 to 14 days on average, and patients who have a direct brow lift may notice more significant swelling and bruising. Still, recovery from direct brow lift surgery can be managed comfortably with the aid of prescription pain medication. Dr. Amato may also use special compression bandages and place a surgical drain to reduce swelling and expedite healing.
Though you’ll feel better after resting for a week or two, it’s important to understand that your face will continue to heal and adjust for a while after you have surgery. Your brows and hairline may look higher than you expected at first, but don’t worry – they will gradually settle into a more natural position throughout about six months.
Dr. Amato provides thorough, personalized follow-up care to all her patients. If at any point during your recovery you experience discomfort or have concerns, she encourages her patients to reach her directly by phone, even outside of regular office hours.
Ready to book your procedure?
If you are ready to take the next steps, or simply want more information about a procedure, please contact our team! Dr. Amato is looking forward to speaking with you soon!
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Brow Lift Surgery?
You may be a good candidate for brow lift surgery if you have low-set brows, heavy upper eyelids from low-set brows, and visible creases in your forehead, especially if those creases don’t respond optimally to non-surgical treatments like Botox. Another indicator that you could benefit from a brow lift is a changed expression: Do you look tired, sad, or angry all the time—no matter how happy and well-rested you are? If you do, then a brow lift may help restore an alert, vibrant look that reflects your real personality.
To have brow lift surgery, you’ll need to be in good overall health and be a non-smoker. If smoking cessation is difficult for you, ask your doctor about using a nicotine patch before and after surgery. Be prepared to provide information about your medical history, including any medications (prescription and over the counter) and supplements you take. Dr. Amato will need to review this information during your consultation to determine your eligibility for surgery. Dr. Amato may offer other nonsurgical techniques that can lift the outer brow, such as Botox or another neurotoxin. For surgery, she may ask you to stop taking certain medications (with your doctor’s permission) before surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Is Brow Lift Surgery Covered by my Insurance?
In some instances, brow lift surgery may be covered by insurance if the brow position is extremely low and contributing to peripheral vision loss. Dr. Amato is experienced in evaluation to see if you are a candidate for medically necessary coverage.
Schedule a Consultation for Forehead Lift Surgery in Austin, Texas
If your forehead and brows are altering your natural expression and aging your face, brow lift surgery might be right for you. To learn more about this procedure, contact Austin brow-lift surgeon Dr. Malena Amato to arrange a personal consultation. When you meet Dr. Amato, she’ll listen to your concerns and create a fully individualized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and wishes.