Brow Lift San Diego
The Best Brow Lift Candidates
- Want to achieve a brighter and more refreshed look
- Do not have a history of extensive facial trauma
- Have the appearance of a heavy brow that makes you look sad or angry
- Have trouble applying eye makeup because sagging tissue is in the way
- Have permanent wrinkles along your forehead or between your eyebrows
- Are a healthy, non-smoker and not taking blood thinner medication
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus is a board certified plastic surgeon and Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.
Dr. Chao’s elite facial plastic surgery training and remarkable attention to detail offers patients safe, natural-looking results. She will work closely with you to understand your goals and concerns to bring your aesthetic vision to life.
Brow Lift Options
Brow lift is a procedure that can benefit both women and men. There are a variety of surgical techniques that can involve a camera-assisted minimally invasive technique or an incision along the scalp or hairline. Direct lifting above the eyebrows and elevation with a hairline incision are other common options. Often, patients will be good candidates for upper and lower eyelid surgeries or facelift at the same time. Dr. Gallus or Dr. Chao will partner with you to determine the technique that best meets your goals and can be accomplished in a safe manner that optimizes healing and your appearance.
Brow Lift Surgery
Brow lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited ambulatory surgery center or hospital setting. The procedure can take from 1 to 2 hours depending on the technique used and the extent of surgery performed. The camera-assisted brow elevation technique requires a small absorbable implant to be placed at the upper part of the forehead. This small implant may be felt for several months before it dissolves and goes away. In order to maximize the result, the forehead muscles can also be treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic during surgery to keep the muscles from moving while you heal. A lightly compressive head dressing is applied at the end of the procedure.
Brow Lift Recovery
Once you have recovered from the anesthesia you can return home, as brow lift surgery is an outpatient procedure. You should arrange to have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for the next one to two days. Some surgical pain is expected and treated with pain medications. Depending on the technique your surgeon uses, you may have stitches or staples at the incision sites.
Dr. Gallus or Dr. Chao will see you frequently after surgery and determine the optimal timing for suture or staple removal. Two to three days after surgery your dressings will be removed and you will be able to wash your hair. You will use antibiotic ointment over the incision sites until they are fully healed.
When the camera-assisted technique is used, a small absorbable implant is used to hold the brow in its new position. The implant dissolves over several months and it may be felt high on the forehead near the hairline in the months right after surgery.
Most patients can return to work after 1 to 2 weeks. It is generally safe to start applying makeup after 2 weeks. Normal daily activities such as showering, eating and light activity such as walking can be resumed within 24 hours after surgery. Some post-operative swelling is normal and resolves in the first 4 weeks in the typical patient. You should refrain from intense physical activity for 4 weeks. During the recovery period, you will have follow up with your surgeon and will be guided back to your usual activities. Most complications occur from getting too active too early, so select a surgical date that allows an appropriate amount of time to heal and gradually return to your more vigorous activities.
“There was no pressure at all on any of the procedures I got quotes on. After getting quotes from six doctors I chose Restore SD because of how much I liked the doctor and everyone in the office. My procedure went great with no complications and great follow-up care. Thanks so much I would highly recommend you to all!”
—Real patient review
Combining brow lift with other procedures
Brow lift is frequently performed in association with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as eyelid surgery and facelift. Injectable fillers, BOTOX® Cosmetic, and laser treatments are all possible at the time of brow lift surgery. You can discuss additional procedures such as breast augmentation, tummy tuck, or liposuction with your Restore SD surgeon to determine what may be safely done at the same time.
Brow Lift FAQs
What happens at my brow lift consultation?
When you arrive at Restore SD Plastic Surgery to discuss a possible brow lift, your Restore SD surgeon will perform a thorough medical exam and detailed facial analysis as well as review your medical history and any medications you are taking. At your consultation, you will have photos taken with our Vectra 3D imaging system and discuss treatment areas and options while viewing your photos series. This ensures you can address all areas of concern with your surgeon. With our state-of-the-art Canfield software, potential surgical results can be viewed and adjustments can be made, helping you to visualize possible outcomes. We will focus on surgical preparation with skin care recommendations as well as using adjunctive treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, Daxxify®, laser or injectable fillers to optimize your results in the safest manner possible.
Why is brow lift surgery for me?
Much like the double-chin, a heavy brow can be passed along in families. In others, natural aging or weight loss can be the factors that lead to a the appearance. Brow lift is a powerful and durable surgical procedure that elevates your brow and results in a well-rested, refreshed appearance. Frequently brow lift is combined with eyelid surgery and facelift as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation program that may also include BOTOX® Cosmetic, laser treatment, or an injectable filler. Over the years our patients consistently say that the fresh and well-rested look they see after brow lift surgery is definitely a “worth-it” procedures.
- Key Benefits
- Glossary
- Smoothes out wrinkles across the forehead and between the eyes
- Lifts sagging eyebrows for a more alert and rejuvenated look
- Reduces the appearance of deep vertical furrows (frown lines) between the eyebrows
- Helps make the eyes look more open and awake
- Anesthesia: Medication used during surgery to prevent pain; a brow lift can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
- Brow Lift (Forehead Lift): A surgical procedure aimed at raising sagging eyebrows and reducing wrinkles and lines on the forehead, creating a younger facial appearance.
- Coronal Brow Lift: A traditional method where an incision is made from ear to ear across the top of the head, hidden within the hair, to lift the forehead and brow.
- Direct Brow Lift: Involves removing a segment of skin and muscle directly above the eyebrows to elevate the brows, leaving a scar that is concealed within the natural brow hair.
- Elevated Hairline: A potential risk or side effect of some brow lift techniques, where the hairline is moved higher on the forehead.
- Endoscopic Brow Lift: A minimally invasive technique using a small camera (endoscope) and special instruments through small incisions in the scalp to lift the brow.
- Incisions: Cuts made during surgery, the location and length of which depend on the type of brow lift performed.
- Nerve Damage: A rare complication that can lead to numbness or changes in forehead or scalp sensation.
- Non-Surgical Brow Lift: Techniques such as Botox injections that temporarily lift the brow area by relaxing underlying muscles.
- Recovery Time: The period required for healing post-surgery, during which swelling and bruising decrease and the results become more apparent.
- Sutures: Stitches used to close incisions; they may be absorbable or require removal after a certain period.
- Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift: Focuses on lifting the outer part of the eyebrows through incisions hidden in the hairline above the temples.
How do I choose a surgeon?
It is important to ask if your surgeon has the proper qualifications and experience specifically in performing brow lift surgery. The plastic surgeons at Restore SD have years of training and expertise in facial rejuvenation surgery that cannot be imitated by short courses and alternative certifications. Ensure that your surgeon is proficient in facial rejuvenation surgery and capable of handling any complications.
Why should I choose Restore SD for my brow lift surgery?
Dr. Gallus holds over 20 years of experience with cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery and is a fully credentialed, board certified plastic surgeon. She also takes the time to listen to you, and partners with you to develop a surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and beautiful results.
Dr. Janet Chao is a distinguished facial plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery of the face and neck. With over a decade dedicated to studying and perfecting techniques for the face and neck, Dr. Chao brings great care and expertise to the patients of Restore SD Plastic Surgery.
We want you to leave Restore SD Plastic Surgery looking and feeling your personal best!
How long do the results of brow lift surgery last?
Brow lift surgery is very durable and will provide many years of a refreshed and youthful look. Over time, skin laxity and aging will contribute to some subtle relaxation of the facial features and a little touch up years down the road may be desired. There are many factors that determine the length of time that a surgical procedure lasts and your Restore SD surgeon will discuss a comprehensive aftercare program that includes sun protection and skin care.
How much time off work should I take after brow lift surgery?
Depending on your profession, you should expect to take 1 to 2 weeks off from work. You will not be able to drive until you are no longer taking narcotic pain medications. You will need a ride home after having general anesthesia and have a friend or family member stay with you for the first night and a day or two if possible.
How do I minimize post-operative scarring after brow lift surgery?
Unfortunately, scarless surgery does not yet exist. However, most brow lift techniques use small incisions that are hidden in the hair. Your Restore SD surgeons will educate you about scar management postoperatively. A surgical scar will take 9 to 12 months to fully mature. Your scar will go through changes during the healing process and your Restore SD team will help you manage this part of your recovery. This can consist of sun avoidance, scar massage, scar cream, and fractionated laser treatments.
What should I do to prepare for brow lift surgery?
If you have close friends or relatives who have had brow lift surgery – start there! A personal story of their journey may guide you to questions to ask your surgeon, and having someone with a shared experience is invaluable. Educate yourself by reading our procedure page and viewing our educational videos. Other sources of information include RealSelf and WebMD.
I am a smoker – can I have brow lift surgery?
At Restore SD Plastic surgery, we pride ourselves in delivering safe, consistent, and reproducible results. Smoking tobacco or using any nicotine products has adverse effects on wound healing. Your risk of tissue loss, infection, and prolonged incision healing are much higher if you use nicotine. We recommend a nicotine-free period of 8 weeks prior to surgery and at a minimum of 4 weeks post-operatively. We have a simple urinary nicotine test that we complete in the office to help you on your journey to a safe and gratifying surgical experience with us.
I have Diabetes – what do I need to know about brow lift surgery?
If you have diabetes it is important to work with your medical team to maintain an ideal HbA1C. Diabetes can increase your risk for prolonged wound healing and certain types of infections. Surgery can be safely performed but requires a coordinated effort from patients, surgeons, and medical doctors to attain outstanding results. There are some instances where your Restore SD surgeon may want to postpone surgery until your diabetes is under better control.
How soon can I travel after having brow lift surgery?
Having surgery means a commitment to an appropriate recovery. We recommend scheduling your surgery at a time that allows enough time to recover and gradually return to your normal activities. Flying, driving long distances, or leaving the immediate area are not recommended until you have been cleared by your surgeon. If you have specific travel needs or require advice for emergency travel soon after a procedure, please let us know and we will be glad to discuss the details with you.
Your Safety = Beautiful Results
Brow Lift at Restore SD
At Restore SD Plastic Surgery, patient safety comes first. Board-certified plastic surgeon and former Navy plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Janet Chao operate in a private, on-site Quad A-accredited surgery center, with state-of-the-art equipment and LED surgical lighting. Our plastic surgeons proudly work with a board-certified anesthesiologist and hold privileges at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla.
Schedule your consultation!
Board certified La Jolla plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Janet Chao together hold extensive experience as trusted brow lift surgeons. They will take the time to listen to your goals and partner with you to develop the best and safest surgical plan that will optimize your results. To schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Gallus or Dr. Chao, call our office at 858-224-2281 or reach out online.
Call to schedule your consultation today »
References »
Richard W. Swift, William B. Nolan, Sherrell J. Aston, Adam L. Basner, Endoscopic Brow Lift: Objective Results After 1 Year, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 19, Issue 4, July 1999, Pages 287–292, https://doi.org/10.1053/aq.1999.v19.100009001
Karimi N, Kashkouli MB, Sianati H, Khademi B. Techniques of Eyebrow Lifting: A Narrative Review. Journal of Ophthalmic and Vision Research. 2020. doi: 10.18502/jovr.v15i2.6740
Broadbent T, Mokhktarzadeh A, Harrison A. Minimally invasive brow lifting techniques. Current Opinion in Ophthalmology. 2017. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000391
Cho MJ, Carboy JA, Rohrich RJ. Complications in Brow Lifts: A Systemic Review of Surgical and Nonsurgical Brow Rejuvenations. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2018. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000001943
Nicholas J. Panella, Jordan L. Wallin, and Neal D. Goldman. Patient Outcomes, Satisfaction, and Improvement in Headaches After Endoscopic Brow-lift. JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery. 2013. http://doi.org/10.1001/jamafacial.2013.924
Medically reviewed by Dr. Katerina Gallus — Updated on Mar 21, 2025
Explore our blog posts related to brow lifts
Can a Brow Lift Raise Eyelids Like a Blepharoplasty?
Meet Dr. Katerina Gallus MD
How a Brow Lift Can Make You Look Younger
