Brow Repositioning Surgery
Brow Lift (Brow Repositioning)
Elevates and repositions the brows to restore a refreshed, balanced upper facial appearance while preserving natural expression.
Brow lift surgery addresses brow descent, forehead heaviness and upper facial imbalance. Planning considers brow position, eyelid relationship, forehead anatomy, hairline position and facial expression, with the aim of restoring support without creating an over-elevated or surprised appearance.
Surgical focus
My approach is considered, curated and grounded in a deep understanding of facial anatomy. A brow lift is not simply about elevating the brows; it is about restoring balance between the forehead, brows and upper eyelids while preserving natural facial expression.
Understanding Brow Lift Surgery
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.
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.
What Are the Different Types of Brow Lift?
Brow lift 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 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.
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).
Recovery and Aftercare
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.
What Are the Risks of Brow Lift Surgery?
All surgery carries risk. Possible complications include:
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
May occur as swelling settles and tissues mature.
Prolonged swelling or contour tethering
Usually settles.
General anaesthetic risks
If used.
Combine your Brow Lift
Balanced Planning
Upper eyelid (blepharoplasty)
Refines skin excess/pseudoherniated fat; often planned with or after a brow lift depending on brow position.
Facelift/Neck procedures
Gliding brow lift ↔ MACS lift pair well in vertical-vector strategies; Endoscopic brow lift ↔ Deep plane lower facelift when lower-face/neck require structural repositioning.
Temple/upper-lid volume
Fat grafting (micro/nanofat) for deflation/hollowing.
Skin quality
Laser or chemical peel (commonly staged) for fine lines and texture.
Same-session vs staged
Chosen to streamline recovery and scar care; periocular resurfacing is commonly staged ~6–12 weeks.
WHAT TO EXPECT
From Consultation to Recovery
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.
3. Discreet Placement
Hairline-aware portal placement and secure fixation designed for discreet, durable support.
4. Integrated Care
Thoughtful combination or staging with eyelid and facelift procedures, consistent with Australian guidelines.
5. Continuity
Consultation, surgery, and follow-up with me in accredited facilities.
Brow Lift FAQs
