Questions about brow lift surgery? Get answers from Manhattan plastic surgeon Dr. Preminger.
Brow Lift in New York
A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, refreshes the upper face by correcting drooping skin, eliminating deep forehead wrinkles and a heavy-looking eyebrow that can age us well beyond our actual years. The result: a well-rested, more youthful appearance marked by bright, alert eyes.
Aging and continued sun exposure both take a toll on the elasticity of our skin, which can leave us looking tired or even angry as vertical frown lines develop and repeated facial expressions create noticeable wrinkles in the forehead. As the brow drops with time, the upper eyelids also begin to sag. A forehead lift, which is often accompanied with upper eyelid surgery, opens up the eye area for a revitalized look.
Coronal Brow Lift (Traditional Brow Lift)
The coronal brow lift is a more extensive procedure that involves a long incision across the scalp, from ear to ear. The forehead skin is lifted, and excess tissue is removed to smooth deep wrinkles and reposition the eyebrows. While this technique provides dramatic and long-lasting results, it also requires a longer recovery and can slightly raise the hairline. It is best suited for those with significant forehead sagging or deep frown lines.
Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift
The temporal brow lift is a subtle, minimally invasive procedure focused on lifting the outer edges of the eyebrows. Small incisions are made within the temples (near the hairline), allowing the lateral brow to be gently repositioned. This technique is ideal for those who want a slight, natural-looking lift rather than a full forehead lift. It is often combined with eyelid surgery for a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
Quick Facts
Procedure Length
1 hour
Anesthesia
Local or general, depends on extent
In/Out Patient
Outpatient
Risks
Pain, bleeding, infection, rare damage to nerves, incomplete improvement
Side Effects
Numbness, temporary swelling, bruising, and some pain
Recovery
1 week back at work
1 week light exercise
2 – 3 weeks more strenuous activity
4 – 8 weeks for swelling to completely resolve
Duration of Results
About 5 years
Planning for a brow lift
When evaluating patients for a forehead lift, Dr. Preminger looks at the amount of excess eyelid skin, hairline and eyebrow position to determine one of the best approach for treatment. Younger patients may also be ideal candidates for the procedure if they have an inherited lowbrow that creates excessive eyelid hooding.
During the initial consultation, patients may be asked to bring in old photos of themselves that illustrate the ideal position that best suits their face. Dr. Preminger will thoroughly review your medical history and perform a physical examination which looks at skin elasticity, texture, facial muscle dynamics and bone structure. In preparation for a forehead lift with Dr. Preminger, patients may be asked to:
- Refrain from smoking before and several weeks after the surgery
- Avoid alcohol
- Adjust current medications
- Stop taking anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin and any natural supplements
Although complications from a eyebrow and forehead lift are very rare, risks include:
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Scarring
- Swelling and discoloration of skin
- Infection
- Numbness
- Elevated hairline
- Asymmetry of the upper face
- Hair loss at incision sites
Long-lasting results
The final results of your forehead lift should be evident within four to eight weeks. Your new elevated brow line and smooth forehead can be maintained over time with proper diet, skin care and sun avoidance. Dr. Preminger will counsel you on effective products to preserve your newly rejuvenated face, such as antioxidants and retinol-containing serums.
Keep in mind that an eyebrow/ forehead lift can last for ten years or more.