Brow Lift, Also Known as Forehead Lift or Temporal Lift

A brow lift is a plastic surgery procedure designed to raise drooping eyebrows to a higher, more refreshed position. Also referred to as a forehead lift or temporal lift, a brow lift may help smooth forehead wrinkles, reduce frown lines between the brows, and address a heavy or tired appearance in the upper face.

If sagging brows are affecting how rested or alert you look, a brow lift may be a suitable option to discuss with your surgeon.

What Does a Brow Lift Address?

A brow lift procedure is designed to address:

• Drooping or low-set eyebrows
• Deep horizontal forehead lines
• Frown lines (glabellar lines) between the brows
• A heavy or hooded appearance above the eyes
• Asymmetry of the eyebrows

In some cases, a brow lift may reduce the appearance of hooded upper eyelids. Your surgeon will assess whether a brow lift alone is appropriate or whether eyelid surgery may also be recommended.

Planning Your Brow Lift Surgery

The Consultation

Every brow lift begins with a thorough consultation. Your surgeon will ask about your general state of health and carefully analyse your eyebrows, forehead, and upper eyelids. The position of your hairline and brow will be studied, and the findings will be discussed with you to help plan your brow lift treatment.

We will listen to your concerns, discuss your expectations, and help you make a well-informed decision. The brow lift procedure will be described in detail, and you will receive advice on how to prepare for surgery and how to support your recovery. A GP or specialist referral is required before a cosmetic surgery consultation in Australia, and a mandatory cooling-off period applies.

Learn more about Dr Barnouti and his approach to facial plastic surgery.

The Brow Lift Procedure

A brow lift can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia.

The incision is approximately 5 cm long and is placed at the top of the head behind the hairline, resulting in a scar that is typically concealed within the hair. Through this incision, the skin and fascia of the forehead, brow, and eye area are elevated and repositioned.

The brow lift procedure takes approximately 60 minutes, and you will generally be able to return home the same day.

After Your Brow Lift

When you return home after your brow lift, you will receive an aftercare information sheet, a follow-up appointment, and Dr Barnouti’s private phone number so you can contact him day or night if medically required.

Due to local anaesthesia, the area will remain numb for approximately 6 hours after surgery. Once the anaesthetic wears off, you may experience mild pain, swelling, and bruising. These symptoms typically improve with simple analgesics and head elevation. Temporary bruising around the eyes may occur for a few days.

The stitches used in a brow lift are dissolvable and do not require removal.

Recovery and Return to Activities

You will need rest for 1–2 days following your brow lift, followed by light duties. Most patients return to normal activities within 10–14 days, though individual recovery may vary.

Combining a Brow Lift with Other Procedures

A brow lift is often performed alongside other facial rejuvenation procedures to address multiple areas of the face. Procedures commonly combined with a brow lift include:

• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) — to address puffiness, excess skin, or under-eye bags
• Face and neck lift — for mid- and lower-face rejuvenation
• Deep plane face and neck lift — for more comprehensive facial repositioning
• Fat injection (lipofilling) — to restore volume to temples, cheeks, or under the eyes
• Thread lift — a less invasive lifting option

Dr Barnouti will advise you on the most suitable combination of procedures for your individual situation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brow Lift

What is the difference between a brow lift and eyelid surgery?

A brow lift raises the entire brow and may smooth the forehead, while eyelid surgery addresses excess skin and fat on the eyelids. In some cases, a brow lift alone may improve hooded upper lids. Dr Barnouti will assess whether you may benefit from a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or both.

How long do brow lift results last?

Brow lift results are generally long-lasting, though the natural ageing process continues over time. Sun protection, a healthy lifestyle, and following your surgeon’s aftercare advice may help maintain your results. Individual outcomes vary.

Is a brow lift suitable for men?

Yes. Brow lift surgery is performed on both men and women. For male patients, care is taken to maintain a natural brow shape appropriate to masculine facial proportions.

How much does a brow lift cost?

The cost of a brow lift depends on the technique used and whether it is combined with other procedures. Visit our Plastic Surgery Costs page for pricing information. Payment plans are also available.

Final Thoughts

A brow lift is a well-established procedure for addressing drooping eyebrows, forehead lines, and frown lines in the upper face. At Sydney Plastic Surgery®, every brow lift is planned individually. Dr Barnouti will take the time to understand your concerns, explain the procedure, and develop a plan tailored to your goals and anatomy.

If you are considering a brow lift in Sydney, the next step is to book a consultation. There is no obligation — just honest, personalised advice.

How much does a brow lift cost?