Brow Lift Surgery: Four Surgical Approaches That May Be Discussed During Consultation

Brow lift surgery is a procedure that may be considered when discussing the position of the brow, forehead tissues, and upper eyelid area. Different surgical approaches may be used depending on a patient’s anatomy, medical history, skin quality, hairline position, previous surgery, and suitability for surgery.

This article outlines four brow lift approaches that may be discussed during consultation. It is general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice.

1. Endoscopic Brow Lift

An endoscopic brow lift involves small incisions usually placed within the hair-bearing scalp. A camera-assisted instrument is used to view the surgical area and assist with tissue release and repositioning.

This approach may be discussed for some patients depending on brow position, forehead anatomy, hairline position, and skin quality. Suitability can only be assessed after consultation and examination.

As with all surgery, an endoscopic brow lift involves risks, recovery time, and possible complications. These should be discussed before deciding whether to proceed.

2. Temporal Brow Lift

A temporal brow lift, also known as a lateral brow lift, focuses on the outer portion of the brow. Incisions are usually placed near the temple or within the hair-bearing scalp.

This approach may be considered where the main area of concern relates to the lateral brow. The surgical plan depends on the individual’s anatomy, hairline position, skin quality, and whether any other procedures are being considered.

A temporal brow lift is still a surgical procedure. It requires assessment, planning, anaesthesia, wound care, and recovery.

3. Trichophytic Brow Lift

A trichophytic brow lift is performed through an incision along or near the hairline. This approach may be discussed when hairline position, forehead height, and brow position are relevant to surgical planning.

Because this technique involves an incision at the hairline, scar position, hair growth pattern, skin type, and healing factors need to be carefully considered. Not all patients are suitable for this approach.

A consultation is required to discuss the possible benefits, limitations, risks, alternatives, and expected recovery process.

4. Brow Lift with Upper Eyelid Surgery

In some cases, brow position and upper eyelid skin are assessed together. This is because brow position can affect the appearance and function of the upper eyelid area.

A brow lift may sometimes be discussed in combination with upper eyelid surgery, also known as upper blepharoplasty. Combining procedures is not appropriate for every patient and should only be considered after clinical assessment.

Patients should be informed about the risks of each procedure, the combined recovery process, and the option of having one procedure, both procedures, or no surgery.

Factors Considered During Brow Lift Planning

Surgical planning may include assessment of:

• brow position and forehead anatomy
• upper eyelid skin and tissue position
• hairline position and hair density
• skin quality and elasticity
• previous surgery or scarring
• medical history and medications
• smoking or vaping history
• healing factors
• anaesthetic considerations
• recovery requirements and post-operative support

The most appropriate approach varies between patients. No specific technique is suitable for everyone.

Recovery After Brow Lift Surgery

Recovery after brow lift surgery varies. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, tightness, discomfort, numbness, altered sensation, temporary changes in scalp sensation, or changes around incision sites.

The time required to return to work, exercise, and usual activities depends on the type of procedure performed, whether other procedures are combined, and individual healing.

Follow-up appointments are important so that healing can be reviewed and any concerns can be assessed.

Risks of Brow Lift Surgery

All surgery has risks. Risks of brow lift surgery may include, but are not limited to:

• bleeding or haematoma
• infection
• scarring
• delayed wound healing
• pain or discomfort
• bruising and swelling
• altered sensation or numbness
• temporary or persistent scalp sensation changes
• hair thinning or hair loss near incision sites
• asymmetry
• changes in brow position over time
• facial nerve injury
• anaesthetic complications
• dissatisfaction with the outcome
• need for revision surgery

The likelihood and significance of these risks varies between individuals. A consultation is required to discuss personal risk factors and whether surgery is suitable.

Consultation and Further Information

A consultation with Dr Adam Honeybrook can be used to discuss brow lift surgery, available surgical options, risks, recovery, alternatives, and whether surgery is suitable for your circumstances.

Dr Adam Honeybrook is a registered medical practitioner with specialist registration in Surgery – Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Registration number: MED0001602935.

To contact the practice, call:

• New patients: 07 3485 0596
• Existing patients: 07 3488 8118

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