This depends on the approach. Direct brow lift surgery is a powerful, predictable, and long lasting technique suitable for many patients. A single incision is hidden in the brow hair line.

A brow lift is carefully design to achieve the desired brow position, giving a natural result and contour, rather than a surprised appearance. This procedure is commonly combined with upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery.

Skin incisions are closed with sutures which are usually removed at 5-10 days following surgery.

Another option for lifting the brow is browpexy surgery which is performed via an upper eyelid skin incision and internal sutures. This procedure is combined with an upper eyelid blepharoplasty.

A toxin brow lift may be suitable for some patients and gives a subtle lift. It is non-invasive but, as with any toxin procedure, the results are temporary and last between 3 and 6 months.

The recovery period is typically two weeks. The final result of surgery is appreciated at around two to three months.

Discomfort is usually minimal following the surgery, controlled with simple pain killers such as paracetamol.

Sutures are removed at 5-7 days following surgery. The scar is hidden in the brow hair line and will fade in the months following surgery.

Swelling and bruising varies between patients but can take up to 4 weeks to resolve. Cold compresses and sleeping propped up in the days following surgery can speed up recovery.

Brow lift surgery is generally considered to be safe.

As with any oculoplastic procedure, there are potential risks including infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, over- or under-correction, and need for further surgery. Thankfully these complications are unusual.

Infection

Post-operative infection is very rare and can be treated with antibiotics. Further surgery may be required and cosmesis can be affected. A severe infection is extremely unlikely.

Bleeding

A small amount of bloody discharge from the skin incision is expected post-operatively.

Scarring

Surgical incisions are meticulously planned to minimise scarring. In direct brow lift surgery the scar fades and flattens in the months following surgery.

Asymmetry

When comparing the two sides of the face, we are all slightly asymmetrical. During the healing phase following surgery, asymmetry may be noted but this is usually temporary and the vast majority of patients are very happy with final results.

Dry eye

Dry eye tends to get worse with age and many people use lubricant drops to moisturise the surface of the eye, similar to the need to moisturise dry skin. For patients that have a combined brow lift and blepharoplasty, lubricants may be recommended for in the post-operative recovery period. Some patients find it helpful to continue to use these, especially those who have an element of dry eye prior to surgery.

Allergy

Allergic reactions are rare and precautions are taken for anyone with pre-existing allergies.

Short and Long Term Outcomes

Final results are seen at 2-3 months and may last for many years. Direct brow lift is a long lasting approach to lifting the brows. That said, the aging process cannot be stopped and the anatomical changes that occur secondary to aging are an ongoing process for all of us. Top up treatment or surgery may be required in the future.