Browlift Surgery in Sydney

Browlift Surgery (forehead lift)

Dr. Jason Roth (MED0001185485) Registered medical practitioner, specialist otolaryngologist – head and neck surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – otolaryngology head and neck surgery).

Please note that all cosmetic surgery involves risks and individual results vary. The outcomes shown in any images on this page are relevant only to the specific patient depicted and do not reflect the results that other patients may experience, as results may differ due to factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise. Decisions about cosmetic surgery should be made after careful consideration and consultation with a qualified medical practitioner.

Introduction

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift or browplasty, is a surgical procedure intended to address concerns related to the position of the eyebrows, the appearance of the forehead, and areas around the eyes. It may revise brow descent, reduce certain forehead lines, or improve the openness of the eye area in suitable candidates. This procedure is an invasive medical treatment that carries risks, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Patients are encouraged to discuss their goals and any concerns during a consultation to determine if this procedure is appropriate.

Cosmetic surgery is a serious decision. Full information about risks and potential risks can be found in the risks section below or on our website.

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift or browplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the eyes, the forehead and the areas around the eyes.

Risks of surgery

Cosmetic surgery is a serious decision. Information about the risks of a browlift can be found here.

Reasons Patients May Consider a Brow Lift

Individuals may seek a brow lift for various reasons, including:

To open the eye area by reducing hooding of the upper eyelids, which may improve peripheral vision if brow or eyelid descent affects the visual field.
To complement other facial procedures, such as a deep plane facelift or neck lift, where brow position influences overall facial and neck contour and longevity of results.
To address vision impairment caused by low-hanging forehead or brow skin.
To partially smooth horizontal forehead lines (dynamic wrinkles from expressions are better managed with non-surgical options such as neurotoxins).
To improve noticeable asymmetry between the eyebrows.

These concerns may be cosmetic or, in some cases, functional. Suitability is assessed individually during consultation.

Types of Brow Lift Procedures

Several techniques exist for brow lift surgery, each suited to different degrees of brow descent, forehead characteristics, and patient anatomy. The choice depends on facial balance, goals, and examination findings. In general, Dr Roth recommends the endoscopic brow lift or the mini-brow lift. These require only small incisions and allow for a quicker recovery. Other types of brow lift surgery may be recommended for special circumstances such as very high foreheads or in revision surgery. Common approaches include:

Endoscopic Brow Lift Involves small incisions (typically five) within the hairline. An endoscope and instruments lift the forehead tissues and adjust underlying structures. The brow is secured with sutures, small screws, or absorbable devices. This is minimally invasive with shorter recovery and minimal scarring, suitable for mild to moderate descent.
Trichophytic Brow Lift A beveled incision is placed just behind the hairline, allowing hair regrowth through it. Forehead skin can be shortened without raising the hairline or distorting brow position. Closed in layers with dissolving sutures; a head bandage may be applied overnight. This provides precise skin adjustment with well-hidden scars and is versatile for various brow concerns.
Coronal Brow Lift An incision across the scalp within the hair-bearing area. The forehead is lifted, excess skin removed, and tissues adjusted. Effective for significant descent and deep wrinkles, with long-lasting results, though it involves a longer scar (hidden in hair) and temporary scalp numbness.
Lateral Temporal Brow Lift Small incisions within the hairline at the temples lift the outer brow. Less invasive with quicker recovery, but limited to lateral effects with minimal impact on the central forehead.
Direct Brow Lift Incisions directly above the brows allow targeted lifting and skin removal. Precise for asymmetry or specific cases, but scarring may be more visible and is typically reserved for patients where other methods are unsuitable or scarring is not a concern.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation in an accredited surgical facility. It may be combined with other procedures (such as upper eyelid surgery) on a case-by-case basis. All cosmetic surgery is serious, with recovery involving downtime and potential complications.

Suitability for a Brow Lift

Not everyone is a suitable candidate. This procedure is generally considered for individuals in good overall health with concerns about brow position or forehead appearance, who maintain reasonable skin elasticity. Candidates should be non-smokers (as smoking impairs healing and increases risks) and have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less to minimise complications. No ideal age exists; suitability is assessed individually based on medical history and absence of conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure or bleeding disorders.

A thorough consultation evaluates facial anatomy, skin quality, and goals to determine the most appropriate technique.

The Consultation Process

Identifying Concerns

Patients describe specific concerns about the forehead, brows, and eye area. Medical history, previous surgeries, medications, allergies, and lifestyle factors (such as smoking or exercise) are reviewed to tailor the approach and identify risks.

Discussion focuses on realistic outcomes suited to individual facial structure. Complementary options may be mentioned if relevant.

Physical Examination

A comprehensive examination assesses skin quality, muscle tone, brow position, and descent. Photographs may be taken for medical records with consent, stored securely, and not used for advertising without separate informed consent.

Preoperative Appointment

Approximately two weeks before surgery, instructions are reviewed (e.g., fasting from midnight the night before), prescriptions issued if needed, final consent obtained, and avoidance of blood-thinning substances (e.g., aspirin, certain supplements) advised for at least two weeks prior and after. Patients may raise any concerns.

The Brow Lift Procedure

Patients arrive early at the accredited facility, having fasted. Final review and upright markings ensure accuracy.

Under general anaesthesia or deep sedation with monitoring, incisions are made per the chosen technique. Forehead tissues are lifted, underlying muscles/tissues adjusted, and the brow secured. Incisions close with sutures; drains may be placed if required. A companion must accompany the patient home and stay overnight.

Recovery from a Brow Lift

Recovery varies; patients should plan time off work and activities. Swelling and bruising peak early and improve over weeks. Discomfort is managed with prescribed pain relief (e.g., paracetamol).

Key aspects include:

Follow-up the day after surgery and in the first two weeks (e.g., days five, seven, ten) for monitoring and suture removal (typically 7–10 days).
Head elevation and cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Avoidance of strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or exercise for at least four weeks.
For distant patients, remaining nearby for at least seven days before travel.
Full swelling resolution may take months.

Follow postoperative instructions for wound care and restrictions. Healing rates and pain thresholds differ between individuals.

Risks and Potential Complications

All surgery carries risks; cosmetic surgery is no exception. Potential risks include, but are not limited to:

Bleeding or haematoma.
Infection.
Scarring (designed to be discreet where possible).
Nerve injury causing temporary or permanent numbness/weakness.
Asymmetry or irregularity.
Prolonged swelling/bruising.
Adverse anaesthesia reactions.
Poor wound healing (higher in smokers or certain conditions).
Hair loss along incisions.
Need for revision surgery.

Rare serious complications may include deep vein thrombosis. Risks are minimised but not eliminated. Full details are discussed in consultation and available on our website.

Expected Outcomes

Outcomes vary due to age, skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle. The procedure aims to modify brow/forehead appearance, potentially improving eye openness or visual fields if relevant. Results may last several years, influenced by stable weight, healthy habits, diet, and exercise, though ageing continues. Non-surgical options may support maintenance.

Incisions fade over months. No surgery guarantees specific results or halts ageing. Complementary procedures may be considered later.

If you have questions or wish to schedule a consultation, please contact our practice. Remember, cosmetic surgery is a significant decision requiring thoughtful consideration.