Brow Lift Surgery
Introduction
Brow lift surgery restores the position of eyebrows that have descended as part of the normal ageing process, or less commonly following trauma or nerve injury.
As the brows descend, they can create a tired, heavy or angry appearance and contribute to excess upper eyelid skin. In some patients, significant brow descent may also contribute to visual obstruction.
Many people seeking upper eyelid surgery are surprised to learn that part of their concern relates to brow position rather than the eyelids alone. Careful assessment of the forehead, brows and eyelids is therefore an important part of surgical planning.
THE PROCEDURE
The aim of brow lift surgery is to restore a more natural brow position while maintaining harmony between the forehead, brows and eyelids.
Brow lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic at Hunter Valley Private Hospital and usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes. Most patients return home the same day.
A brow lift is commonly combined with upper eyelid surgery and may also be performed alongside other facial rejuvenation procedures where appropriate.
THE PROCESS
There is no single brow lift technique that is appropriate for every patient. The most suitable approach depends on your anatomy, degree of brow descent, skin quality and treatment goals.
Dr Raymond performs two brow lift techniques.
Direct Brow Lift
A direct brow lift places the incision immediately above the eyebrow, allowing precise and durable repositioning of the brow.
This technique offers excellent control over brow position and is particularly well suited to patients with heavier brows or more significant brow descent. In carefully selected patients, the scar is often well concealed within the natural skin creases above the eyebrow.
Gliding Brow Lift
The gliding brow lift uses short incisions hidden within the hairline to elevate and reposition the brow.
This technique avoids a scar along the eyebrow itself and is often preferred by younger patients or those where visible brow scars are less acceptable. Although technically more complex, it provides excellent aesthetic outcomes in appropriately selected patients.
During your consultation, the advantages and limitations of each technique will be discussed to determine which approach is most appropriate for you.
Recovery
Sutures are removed within the first one to two weeks, depending on the technique performed.
Swelling and bruising are expected and vary between individuals, with most improving significantly over the first two to three weeks. Scars continue to mature over the following 12 to 18 months.
LED light therapy is routinely incorporated into the early recovery period to support wound healing.
Risks
All surgery carries risk. Risks specific to brow lift surgery include:
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Infection
- Delayed healing or unfavourable scarring
- Temporary or permanent numbness
- Temporary or permanent nerve injury affecting brow movement
- Asymmetry
- Dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome
- The need for further surgery
These risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation. Further information is also available on our Treatment Risks page.
Pricing
Brow lift surgery is quoted using all-inclusive pricing, incorporating surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital and routine post-operative care.
As a guide:
- Direct Brow Lift (Medicare eligible where criteria are met): approximately $8,000–10,000 before applicable rebates.
- Direct Brow Lift (Cosmetic): approximately $12,000–14,000.
- Gliding Brow Lift: approximately $14,000–16,000.
A personalised written quotation is provided following consultation. Medicare eligibility is assessed individually, and all treatment options will be discussed before proceeding.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
