A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is designed to restore a more youthful, refreshed, and naturally lifted appearance to the upper face. This procedure elevates the position of the eyebrows, smooths forehead wrinkles, and softens frown lines between the brows. The result is a more open, alert expression without looking surprised or overdone.

What a Brow Lift Can Address

  • Sagging or drooping eyebrows
  • Deep horizontal forehead lines
  • Frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines)
  • Heavy, tired appearance of the upper face
  • Asymmetry in brow position
  • Hooded appearance of the upper eyelids (when caused by brow descent)

Brow Lift Techniques

Endoscopic Brow Lift

The most common technique today, the endoscopic approach uses several small incisions hidden within the hairline. A tiny camera guides the procedure, allowing Dr. Howley to lift and reposition tissues with minimal scarring and shorter recovery.

Temporal (Limited Incision) Brow Lift

Focuses on lifting the outer portion of the brow, particularly effective for patients whose outer brows have descended more than the inner brows. Incisions are hidden in the hairline at the temples.

Coronal Brow Lift

The traditional technique involves an incision across the top of the head, hidden within the hair. While this approach provides the most dramatic lifting, it's typically reserved for patients with significant sagging.

Brow Lift vs. Botox

While Botox can temporarily relax forehead muscles and create a slight brow lift, surgical brow lift provides more significant and permanent elevation of the brow position. Many patients combine a surgical brow lift with ongoing Botox treatments for optimal results.

Combining with Other Procedures

A brow lift is often performed alongside other facial procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation:

  • Blepharoplasty: For complete upper face rejuvenation
  • Facelift: For full facial rejuvenation
  • Laser Resurfacing: To improve skin texture

Recovery

Most patients return to normal activities within 10-14 days. Temporary numbness, swelling, and bruising are normal. Results are visible immediately and continue to improve as swelling resolves over several weeks.

Brow Lift FAQ

Will I look surprised after a brow lift?

No. Dr. Howley's goal is to create a natural, refreshed appearance—not an overly lifted or surprised look. The brow is elevated to restore it to a more youthful position while maintaining your natural expression.

Will a brow lift help my upper eyelids?

Sometimes what appears to be excess upper eyelid skin is actually caused by a drooping brow. A brow lift can improve the appearance of the upper eyelids by lifting the brow to its proper position. In some cases, both a brow lift and blepharoplasty are recommended.

Will I lose hair from the incisions?

Modern techniques minimize any risk of hair loss. Incisions are made carefully to preserve hair follicles, and any hair loss along incision lines is typically minimal and temporary.

How long do brow lift results last?

Results typically last 10-15 years or longer. While the aging process continues, most patients maintain significant improvement long-term. Complementary treatments like Botox can help extend results.

Ready to Refresh Your Look?

Schedule a consultation to discuss brow lift surgery with Dr. Howley.

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