Highlight brows diagram

What Is a Brow Lift?

A brow lift is an aesthetic facial surgery procedure that repositions the eyebrows and forehead tissues to restore a more youthful brow position and improve forehead contour by addressing the following concerns:

  • Low or drooping eyebrows
  • A tired, heavy, or angry appearance
  • Excess skin contributing to upper eyelid heaviness

Who Is a Candidate for a Brow Lift?

Women and men who meet the following criteria are often candidates for brow lift surgery:

  • Are bothered by a low or heavy brow
  • Have realistic expectations for their results
  • Are in good overall health
  • Do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery

During your consultation, your surgeon will determine whether a brow lift alone or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures will best achieve your goals.

Middle-aged female model
middle-aged female model

How Is a Brow Lift Performed?

Brow lift surgery is customized to each patient’s anatomy. Depending on your goals, your surgeon may recommend an endoscopic brow lift using several small incisions hidden within the hairline or another technique tailored to your needs.

The procedure is typically performed as outpatient surgery under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The forehead tissues are elevated, repositioned, and secured to restore a youthful brow position while preserving a natural appearance. Incisions are carefully concealed within the hairline whenever possible.

Can a Brow Lift Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, many women and men benefit from combining brow lift surgery with one or more of the following procedures:

Your surgeon will develop a customized treatment plan based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

middle-aged female model

What Is Brow Lift Recovery Like?

Most patients return home the day of surgery. Mild swelling, bruising, and forehead tightness are expected and improve steadily during recovery.

Recovery Timeline

Week 1

  • Rest and avoid strenuous activity.
  • Swelling and bruising are most noticeable during the first several days.
  • Sutures or staples are typically removed within 7–10 days.

Week 2

  • Most bruising has resolved.
  • Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities.

Long Term

  • Swelling continues to improve over several months.
  • Final results are typically appreciated by 3–6 months.

Why Choose UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

• Fellowship-trained surgeons experienced in advanced facial rejuvenation
• Personalized surgical plans
• Academic medical center resources
• Commitment to natural-looking outcomes
• Patient safety at every stage

Insight From Our Surgeons

A brow lift elevates the position of the eyebrows—it does not treat excess upper eyelid skin alone. Many patients achieve the best overall rejuvenation by combining a brow lift with eyelid surgery when appropriate.

Dr. Grant and Dr. Sergesketter

Your Next Step

To learn more about brow lift surgery at UVA Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Charlottesville, request a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons using the online form or call (434) 924-5078 to schedule an appointment.

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