What Is an Eyebrow Lift?

Also known as a forehead lift, an eyebrow lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure. A brow lift can tighten skin, minimize frown lines, and reshape a heavy brow to create a more youthful upper face.

Rapid changes in weight, stress, or muscle activity can affect how your face is structured and cause loose skin or extra wrinkles.

For many, the face carries a heavy load when communicating emotions. A ruffled brow or tired eyes can send mixed signals about your true feelings. A brow lift can smooth the skin and provide a more animated appearance.

There are three brow lift procedures: endoscopic, temporal, and coronal.

A successful brow lift looks different for everyone. Your surgeon will work with you to determine the best technique for your bone structure, face shape, skin type, and ideal look.

Sometimes, a brow lift may be recommended alongside other facial procedures to produce the desired result.

Temporal brow lift

A temporal or limited incision brow lift, the least invasive approach, is performed under local anesthesia. Your surgeon will make several small incisions just above each temple to lift the outer portion of your brow.

This procedure can also be used to address drooping in the upper eyelids.

Endoscopic brow lift

An endoscopic brow lift is a step up from a temporal lift, targeting the entire eyebrow. Your surgeon will make a series of small incisions across the top of your forehead and temples and insert an endoscope.

This tiny tube has a camera and specialized instruments attached to the tip. Your surgeon will use it to reposition the tissue and muscles beneath your skin and cut out excess fat.

Coronal brow lift

A coronal or classic brow lift is performed under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make one continuous incision behind your hairline that stretches from ear to ear to lift the skin of your forehead.

The underlying muscle and tissue are readjusted, and the excess fat is trimmed away, giving your face a refreshed look.

According to a national survey by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, a brow lift can cost from $1,500 to $10,500 in the United States.

A brow lift is considered cosmetic surgery, so the procedure usually isn’t covered by insurance.

Suppose a doctor or other healthcare professional recommends the procedure to help improve your line of vision or other health concerns. In that case, your insurance may cover a portion of the procedure.

Consult your insurance provider to learn more and confirm coverage before scheduling your procedure.

Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions to prepare for the procedure. Carefully follow your pre-op instructions, including any medication and food restrictions.

Smoking cigarettes can increase your risk of complications during and after surgery. Limit or quit smoking at least a week, if not more, before surgery. The earlier you can reduce your intake, the lower your risk of complications.

A brow lift is usually an outpatient surgery. You’ll arrive at the facility and meet with your care team before the procedure begins.

Your surgeon will recommend either local anesthesia or intravenous sedation. Once you’re comfortable, your surgeon will prep your skin and place your incisions.

They’ll adjust the muscles and tissue underneath your skin to create symmetry and smoothness in your upper face. They’ll also remove excess fat and tissue to create a brighter, more youthful appearance overall.

Afterward, your surgeon will use skin adhesives, special clips, or sutures to close your incisions.

Your care team will go over any post-operative instructions for recovery. Follow these carefully to ensure a smooth recovery free of complications.

You may develop bruising and swelling around your eyes and other areas of your face. This may last for up to 2 weeks after the procedure. Keeping your head elevated for the first few days can help.

As your nerves heal, you may experience numbness and discomfort at the incision site(s) — including tightness and itching. These sensations can last up to 6 months.

Healthcare professionals generally recommend limiting prolonged exposure to the sun and avoiding vigorous activity for several weeks to months following surgery.

How long will the results of a brow lift procedure last?

With the proper care, a brow lift can last for years. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and protecting your skin from sun damage can extend the appearance of your brow lift.

Is a brow lift procedure painful?

Anesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure a comfortable experience.

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication can help ease mild discomfort after the procedure. Your surgeon may also prescribe pain medication to help manage your symptoms.

How much does a brow lift procedure cost?

A brow lift typically ranges between $1,500 and $10,500.

Does a brow lift procedure cause scars?

All brow lift procedures cause some degree of scarring, but they’re usually well hidden within the hairline or can be concealed with makeup.

One 2004 retrospective review found that most people were satisfied with their results — including the appearance of any scarring — regardless of the type of brow lift procedure they received.

Can you give yourself a brow lift without surgery?

Soft tissue fillers and Botox injections can decrease the appearance of frown lines and crow’s feet without cutting the skin.

A brow lift raises a sagging brow, giving the upper face a more refreshed appearance. Common side effects include numbing or itching at the incision site as the scar heals. Visible signs of the procedure should fade within 3 weeks with proper care.

Catasha Gordon is a sexuality educator from Spencer, Oklahoma. She’s the owner and founder of Expression Over Repression, a company built around sexual expression and knowledge. You can typically find her creating sex education materials or building some kinky hardware in a fresh set of coffin nails. She enjoys catfish (tail on), gardening, eating off her husband’s plate, and Beyoncé. Follow her everywhere.

Last medically reviewed on April 10, 2023