The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons

Brow Lift
in Florida

As we age, the effects of gravity and time can cause the brow to descend, resulting in a tired, angry, or aged appearance. A forehead brow lift, also known simply as a brow lift, is a powerful rejuvenating procedure that elevates the brow and smooths the forehead. By addressing deep frown lines and drooping brows, FSPS member surgeons help patients achieve a refreshed and youthful look with natural results tailored to their anatomy and aesthetic goals.

brow lift model

Yoav Barnavon, MD, FACS

What Is a Forehead (Brow) Lift?

A forehead (brow) lift is a surgical procedure that repositions sagging forehead skin and brow tissue while reducing deep furrows and frown lines. It restores a more open, alert look to the upper face. The procedure can be performed using various techniques, including traditional (coronal), endoscopic, hairline, and temporal approaches. Each technique is chosen based on individual patient anatomy and goals. Typically performed under general anesthesia or sedation, a brow lift takes 1 to 2 hours and may be combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) for optimal rejuvenation. Many patients who believe they need an eyelid surgery actually need a procedure for the brow.

Surgical Brow Lift Options

1. Endoscopic Brow Lift (Minimally Invasive)

  • Technique: Small incisions are made behind the hairline, and a tiny camera (endoscope) is used to guide the surgeon.
  • Best for: Mild to moderate sagging.
  • Pros: Minimal scarring, quicker recovery.
  • Cons: Offers a more limited lift compared to open techniques.

2. Coronal Brow Lift (Traditional/Open)

  • Technique: A long incision is placed across the scalp, behind the hairline, allowing comprehensive access to elevate the entire forehead.
  • Best for: Significant sagging or drooping brows.
  • Pros: Powerful, long-lasting results.
  • Cons: More extensive recovery and visible scarring; not ideal for patients with high hairlines.

3. Hairline (Pretrichial) Brow Lift

  • Technique: Incision is made along the hairline, allowing the brows to be lifted without shifting the hairline upward.
  • Best for: Patients with high foreheads who want to avoid further elongating the forehead.
  • Pros: Allows both brow lift and hairline lowering.
  • Cons: Potential for visible scarring, although typically well-concealed.

4. Temporal or Lateral Brow Lift

  • Technique: A shorter incision is made at the temples to target only the outer portion of the eyebrows.
  • Best for: Individuals with lateral brow drooping.
  • Pros: Less invasive with a subtle and natural-looking lift.
  • Cons: Does not address the central brow or forehead lines.

Benefits of a Forehead Brow Lift

  • Elevation of drooping brows
  • Reduction in forehead lines and glabellar creases (frown lines)
  • Improved symmetry of the eyebrows
  • Enhanced expression and a more youthful appearance
  • Increased confidence and facial harmony
  • Long-lasting results with natural effects
  • Customizable surgical techniques to meet individual aesthetic goals

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

Ideal candidates for a forehead brow lift are healthy adults experiencing low-set or sagging brows, deep forehead creases, or frown lines between the eyes. This procedure is especially helpful for individuals whose sagging brows contribute to an angry or tired appearance, even at rest. Candidates should be nonsmokers or willing to stop nicotine use around the time of surgery and should have realistic expectations about the outcomes of cosmetic surgery.

In addition, patients with specific facial anatomy—such as a high forehead, lateral brow droop, or moderate vs. severe ptosis—may benefit from one of the specialized brow lift techniques described above. An in-depth consultation with a board-certified FSPS plastic surgeon is essential to assess candidacy and explore personalized treatment options.

The Procedure Process

Initial Consultation

During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your facial structure, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals. They will explain the different surgical approaches, risks and benefits, and recovery expectations. You will also review photographs and outcomes of previous patients.

Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, the procedure is typically performed in an accredited outpatient surgical facility. Depending on the technique, incisions may be hidden within the hairline, placed across the scalp, or made at the temples. The surgeon lifts and repositions the underlying tissues and skin, securing them in a more youthful position.

Immediate Aftercare

Patients are closely monitored during initial recovery and sent home with detailed aftercare instructions. Compression wraps may be used, and cold compresses are encouraged to minimize swelling.

Follow-Up Visits

Scheduled post-operative appointments help monitor healing and ensure optimal results. FSPS surgeons provide attentive follow-up care and guidance throughout your recovery journey.

Recovery and Aftercare

Initial recovery typically involves 7–10 days of downtime. Swelling and bruising may persist for a few weeks but gradually improve. Most patients resume normal activities in 10–14 days and strenuous exercise in 4–6 weeks. Numbness and tightness may persist temporarily but resolve over time. Adhering to your surgeon’s post-operative guidelines is crucial for a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.

Results: What to Expect

Results are often visible soon after surgery, with final outcomes becoming more evident over the next few months as swelling fully resolves. Patients report a more refreshed, youthful appearance and improved self-confidence. The results of a brow lift are long-lasting, especially when maintained with healthy lifestyle habits and good skin care.

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Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, a forehead brow lift involves potential risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, hair loss at the incision sites, or changes in sensation. However, these risks are minimized when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Choosing a qualified FSPS member ensures your safety, comfort, and a high standard of care.

Why Choose an FSPS Member Plastic Surgeon?

  • Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • Specializing in facial aesthetic surgery with extensive experience
  • Committed to safety, ethics, and excellence in patient care
  • Personalized treatment plans and follow-up support
  • Accessible locations throughout Florida including Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and more

Frequently Asked Questions About Forehead Brow Lift

Costs can vary depending on the technique, location, and surgeon experience. A personal consultation provides a tailored estimate.

Most patients return to work in 7–10 days. Full recovery, including resolution of swelling and final results, may take several weeks to months.

No. A well-performed brow lift by an experienced plastic surgeon enhances your appearance while preserving your natural expressions.

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Serving Florida Communities Statewide

FSPS surgeons proudly serve patients across Florida, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and beyond.

What Should I Do Next?

Schedule your consultation today with an FSPS board-certified plastic surgeon and rediscover a refreshed, youthful version of yourself.

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