Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Brow Lift?
A plastic surgeon, a doctor who does surgery to change how the face looks, performs a brow lift. A brow lift is also called a forehead lift, and it places the eyebrows in a youthful position. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, reduces wrinkles, improves frown lines, and places the eyebrows in a youthful position. Some surgeons use an endoscope, a thin tube with a camera on the end. It and special tools go through small cuts within the hairline. Others use a coronal incision. This is a cut from ear to ear across the top of the head, within the hair.
Why a doctor might recommend it
A brow lift is meant to reduce wrinkles, improve frown lines, and place the eyebrows in a youthful position. With an endoscope, the tissue and muscle under the skin can be adjusted. This fixes the source of visible creases and furrows in the forehead. You have to decide if the surgery will achieve your goals and if the risks are acceptable.
How to prepare
You will be asked to sign consent forms so that you fully understand the procedure and any risks and potential complications. You can ask what medicine you will need after surgery, and whether you will have bandages. You can ask if stitches are removed, and when.
What happens during it
You will be given anesthesia so that you will be comfortable. Your surgeon will suggest either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Next comes the incision, which depends on the method. With an endoscopic lift, the cuts are small and within the hairline. With a coronal lift, the forehead skin is lifted and any muscle adjustment can be made under direct view. For women with very high foreheads, a cut just at the front hairline may be advised. The cuts are usually closed with removable or absorbable stitches, skin glue, or special clips.
Recovery
Your forehead may be taped, or your head may be loosely wrapped. This limits swelling and bruising. A thin tube may drain extra blood or fluid that collects under the skin. Keep your head elevated and do no vigorous physical activity for as long as your surgeon recommends. Do not use ice or heat on the operated area. Initial wound healing may take 10 to 14 days. You should be ready to return to work and normal activity after 10 to 14 days. It may take several months for your complete recovery.
Risks and side effects
Brow lift surgery risks include the following.
- Anesthesia risks
- Bleeding
- An elevated hairline
- Eye irritation or dryness
- Facial asymmetry, meaning the two sides of the face do not match
- Facial nerve injury with weakness or paralysis
- Fluid buildup
- Infection
- Possible need for revision surgery
- Skin loss
- Unfavorable scarring
There is also a rare risk of blood clots in deep veins. These can travel to the lungs and cause chest pain and shortness of breath. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have breathing problems, such as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Also seek emergency care for chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more. Also seek emergency care for bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
A plastic surgeon, a doctor who does surgery to change how the face looks, performs a brow lift. Your plastic surgeon also tells you when to follow up after surgery.
Common questions
How long does recovery from a brow lift take?
Initial wound healing may take 10 to 14 days. You should be ready to return to work and normal activity after that time. It may take several months for your complete recovery.
Where are the scars after a brow lift?
The scars sit in or near the hairline, depending on the method used. The scar from a coronal brow lift is well concealed within the hair. A cut at the front hairline is somewhat more visible, but it can often be hidden with bangs.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A brow lift itself is done by a plastic surgeon, a doctor who does surgery to change how the face looks. Questions about your recovery can be taken to your plastic surgeon.
Sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Brow Lift Procedure Steps
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Brow Lift Risks and Safety
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Brow Lift Recovery
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
