Brow Lift (Brow Repositioning)

IN SYDNEY

Brow Lift (Brow Repositioning)

Measured elevation and shaping of the brow-temple complex, prioritising natural vectors and discreet incision planning.

My approach is considered, curated, and grounded in a deep understanding of facial anatomy. Planning balances brow position, lateral hooding, forehead height, hairline pattern/density, and eyelid skin so the result reads as rested and proportionate - not tight. Incisions and vectors are selected to respect hairlines, nerve pathways, and scar behaviour.

Dr Phaethon Karagiannis Sydney Facelift Surgery Brow Lift

What is a Brow Lift?

A brow lift repositions descended brow tissues (often most noticeable laterally) to reduce temporal hooding and open the upper eyelid platform. Depending on anatomy and goals, elevation can be subtle and lateral-focused or more global. Techniques differ in incision location, depth of release, and vector of lift.

Dr Phaethon Karagiannis Sydney Facelift Surgery Brow Lift

What Are the Different Types of Brow Lift?

Facelift surgery encompasses a range of techniques, each tailored to the degree and pattern of facial ageing. The choice of technique depends on anatomical findings, the desired outcome, and your tolerance for downtime and scarring. Below are five commonly performed approaches - each with its own advantages.

Endoscopic Brow Lift

Access: 3–5 small scalp incisions hidden in the hairline.

Vector/Depth: Vertical–superior; subperiosteal release under endoscopic visualisation with secure fixation to stable structures.

Best for: Lateral brow descent/temporal hooding with good skin quality and a stable hairline; patients preferring minimal visible scarring.

Notes: Often pairs well with deep plane lower facelift when lower face/neck also need structural work.

Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift

Access: Short incisions within the temporal hairline.

Vector/Depth: Lateral–superior; targeted release of the temporal brow/hood.

Best for: Predominantly lateral hooding with good central brow position; patients seeking a focused, shorter procedure.

Notes: Limited change to central forehead; hairline-awareness is key.

Direct Brow Lift

Access: Incision placed just above the brow hairs.

Vector/Depth: Precise localised elevation (often lateral) with direct skin resection.

Best for: Strong brow descent in heavier skin, revision, facial nerve palsy/asymmetry, or when maximum control is required.

Trade-offs: A visible scar near the brow that typically settles but must be discussed carefully pre-operatively.

Gliding Brow Lift

Access: Typically limited hairline/temporal incisions.

Vector/Depth: Controlled release allowing the brow–temple soft tissues to “glide” to a more favourable position; fixation without excessive skin tension.

Best for: Early–moderate lateral descent in patients who benefit from a vertical-leaning vector and subtle shaping.

Notes: Synergises with MACS lift in combined plans for patients prioritising shorter scars and vertical support.

COMBINE YOUR BROW LIFT

Balanced Planning

Same-session vs staged: chosen to streamline recovery and scar care; periocular resurfacing is commonly staged ~6–12 weeks.

WHY CONSIDER A BROW LIFT?

Who is the Ideal Candidate?

  • Lateral hooding and a low/flat lateral brow.

  • Good hairline density/pattern for planned incisions.

  • Upper eyelid heaviness where true brow descent contributes (vs skin excess alone).

  • Good general health and realistic goals.

When another approach may be better

  • Predominant dermatochalasis with minimal brow descent - consider upper blepharoplasty ± internal browpexy.

  • Unstable hairlines or very thin frontal hair where scars risk visibility - consider alternative vectors/positions.

  • Significant asymmetry/nerve issues - direct brow may be more predictable (with thorough scar counselling).

WHAT TO EXPECT

From Consultation to Recovery - Brow Lift Surgery

Undergoing plastic surgery is a detailed and personalised process. From your first consultation to your final review, every stage is carefully planned to support your comfort, safety, and optimal healing.

  • Your Initial Consultation

    Brow–forehead measurements, hairline mapping, eyelid exam (ptosis/skin), and photo-planning.

    Discuss endoscopic vs temporal vs gliding vs direct; incision positions, vectors, and fixation.

  • Preoperative Planning

    Medication/supplement review, smoking cessation, skincare and sun-protection plan.

    If combining with eyelid/facelift/neck work, confirm same-session vs staged sequencing.

  • Surgery Day

    Setting: Accredited day surgery or hospital.

    Anaesthesia: General or twilight (local for selected direct cases).

    Duration: ~45–120 minutes (technique/combination dependent).

    Technique: Small hidden scalp/hairline incisions (endoscopic/temporal/gliding) or just above the brow (direct); controlled release; secure fixation; meticulous closure.

  • Week 1 Post-Op

    Swelling/bruise pattern at temples and outer lids; peaks 48–72 h then settles.

    Tightness, scalp/forehead numbness or itch are common and improve gradually.

    Sutures/staples: typically day 7–10.

  • Week 2–3 Post-Op

    Back to desk work/social settings ~7–14 days (camouflage as needed).

    Gentle skincare once wounds are closed; hair colouring/chemicals after clearance (often ≥2–3 weeks for hairline incisions).

  • 6 Weeks+ Post-Op

    Progressive refinement as residual swelling resolves; return to full exercise usually by 4–6 weeks as advised.

YOUR RECOVERY

Postoperative Care & Follow-up

Positioning: Sleep head-elevated; avoid heavy lifting and vigorous bending initially.

Incision care: Keep clean/dry; begin silicone therapy and gentle scar massage once closed.

Hair/scalp: Gentle shampoo after first review; avoid heat styling over incisions until healed.

Sensation: Patchy numbness/tingling over forehead/scalp is expected and typically improves over weeks–months.

Direct brow scars: Sun protection is critical; meticulous scar care to optimise blending at the brow–skin interface.

SURGICAL RISKS

What Are the Risks of Brow Lift Surgery?

  • Haematoma, infection (uncommon).

  • Nerve effects - Motor (temporal branch): transient brow-elevation weakness (persistent injury is rare).

  • Nerve effects - Sensory (supraorbital/supratrochlear/scalp): temporary numbness/tingling.

  • Hair & incision issues: Localised alopecia at portals, widened/raised scars, hairline irregularity.

  • Asymmetry, under/over-elevation, recurrence with time.

  • Prolonged swelling or contour tethering (usually settles).

  • General anaesthetic risks (if used).

Why Choose Dr Karagiannis for your Brow Lift?

1. Expertise & Experience

Multiple facial aesthetic fellowships across Europe and Australia with dedicated exposure to endoscopic, temporal, gliding, and direct techniques.

2. Anatomy-first Planning

Vector-led, anatomy-first planning - incision/approach tailored to hairlines, tissue quality, and goals.

4. Discreet Placement

Hairline-aware portal placement and secure fixation designed for discreet, durable support.

3. Integrated care

Thoughtful combination or staging with eyelid and facelift procedures, consistent with Australian guidelines..

4. Continuity

Consultation, surgery, and follow-up with me in accredited facilities.

Brow Lift FAQs

  • The objective is to restore brow position and reduce lateral hooding. Eye shape is not the primary target; any change is usually subtle and related to reduced hooding.

  • Endoscopic: small hairline scalp portals. Temporal/Gliding: short incisions within/along the temporal hairline. Direct: just above the brow hairs (more visible; chosen only when appropriate).

  • Many patients feel comfortable for low-key settings by 7–14 days; refinement continues as swelling settles over weeks.

  • Endoscopic/temporal techniques are hairline-aware; vector and portal placement are planned to preserve hairline aesthetics.

  • Yes. Pairing is common and either same-session or staged depending on scope and recovery planning.

  • Cosmetic brow lifts are generally not eligible. Functional eyelid procedures have separate criteria; we discuss eligibility individually.

Dr Phaethon Karagiannis Sydney Facelift Surgery Brow Lift

Request a Consultation

If you're considering undertaking brow lift surgery, I invite you to schedule a private consultation. Together we’ll explore your goals, assess your anatomy, and tailor a plan to suit your needs.