Brow Surgery
Brow Surgery
Medically reviewed by Mr. James Hartley, FRCS (Plast) · GMC: 4823910
Overview
Brow surgery addresses a heavy or descended brow that makes you look tired or stern. If you constantly raise your eyebrows to see or feel more open, brow position may be the driver, not just eyelid skin.
The objective is a balanced, calm, refreshed appearance, not a surprised look. Technique is selected based on your brow shape, degree and pattern of descent, skin quality, hairline position, and scar tolerance.
What to Expect
Brow-lift procedures are commonly performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or general anaesthetic. The approach depends on technique: direct brow lift places an incision just above the brow hairs for precise control; temporal brow lift focuses on the outer brow with incisions in the temple hairline; gliding brow lift repositions tissues through controlled release. Recovery involves swelling and bruising around the forehead and upper eyelids in the first week, with most bruising settling by weeks 2-3. Scars soften and brow position settles into final contour over 3-6 months.
Benefits
Elevate a descended brow to a natural position
Improve the ‘frame’ of the eyes
Reduce upper-face heaviness
Improve lateral brow position for a fresher look
Enhance symmetry as far as anatomy allows
Avoid over-elevation for a natural expression
Address forehead lines
Our Services
Brow Lift
A surgical procedure to raise the eyebrows to a more youthful and alert position. It reduces horizontal forehead lines and the vertical ’11’ lines between the brows, while alleviating the heavy feeling over the eyes.
Direct Brow Lift
Involves removing a specific amount of skin directly above the eyebrow hairs. This technique offers a powerful and precise lift, often used for functional improvement in patients with significant brow ptosis or asymmetry. The scar is carefully positioned to be hidden by the brow hair.
Temporal Brow Lift
Focuses on lifting the outer (lateral) one-third of the eyebrow. Incisions are hidden within the hairline at the temples. This procedure opens up the eyes and reduces hooding at the outer corners, creating a fresher look without altering the central brow.
Gliding Brow Lift
A modern, less invasive technique that utilizes the natural gliding plane of the forehead tissues. It allows for brow repositioning with smaller incisions and relies on the body’s natural healing process to secure the brow in its new, elevated position.
Before & After
FAQs
Is my problem brow descent or eyelid skin?
Often it is both. A proper assessment looks at brow position, eyelid skin, and how much of the ‘heaviness’ is driven by brow ptosis. Treating the right cause is key to a natural result.
Will I look surprised?
A well-planned brow lift restores a natural brow position. We plan conservatively and tailor the lift to your facial proportions to avoid an over-elevated appearance.
What scars will I have?
Scar location depends on technique. Direct brow lift scars sit just above the brow hairs; temporal and gliding approaches typically place scars in the temple or hairline region.
How long do results last?
Brow repositioning is durable, but ageing continues. Longevity varies with tissue quality, lifestyle factors, and technique.
When can I return to work?
Usually once comfortable and off strong pain relief. Desk work is commonly possible in 1-2 weeks, depending on bruising and the approach used.