About brow lift
A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a surgical procedure designed to correct sagging brows and reduce the appearance of horizontal forehead wrinkles and frown lines between the eyebrows. It raises the position of the brows and can make the upper face look less heavy. As we age, the skin and underlying tissues lose elasticity, often causing the eyebrows to descend, sometimes even contributing to a hooded appearance of the upper eyelids.
People considering a brow lift typically have age-related changes in the upper face, such as heavy or sagging brows, deep forehead creases, and frown lines. It is suitable for both men and women who are in good general health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. A brow lift can be performed alone or in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures, such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or a facelift, for a more comprehensive result.
The primary goal of a brow lift is to elevate the eyebrows to a higher position, smooth the forehead skin, and open up the eye area. The specific technique chosen will depend on the individual's unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals, aiming for a natural-looking result without an overly surprised or "pulled" appearance.
Cost of Brow Lift in Australia
Patients reported a median out-of-pocket cost of $7,652 for brow lift in Australia (CostDoc, 127 patient reports), with the middle half paying $6,538 to $18,250 and a full reported range of $6,500 to $20,000. These are patient-reported figures, and fees quoted by specialist plastic surgeons are often higher, so ask for a written quote that itemises the surgeon's, anaesthetist's and hospital fees. Purely cosmetic surgery has no Medicare rebate; if there is a medical reason, ask your GP and surgeon whether a Medicare item applies.
Recovery from brow lift
Following a brow lift, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Most individuals can return to light activities and non-strenuous work within 1 to 2 weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks. While significant bruising and swelling typically subside within a few weeks, residual swelling may persist for several months. It is crucial to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and results.
Safety and risks of brow lift
As with any surgical procedure, a brow lift carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, adverse reaction to anaesthesia, temporary or permanent numbness, asymmetry, and scarring. While rare, nerve injury affecting eyebrow movement can occur. Choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon significantly minimises these risks. A thorough consultation will discuss individual risks and benefits, ensuring informed consent.
Frequently asked questions about brow lift
What is the difference between a brow lift and an eyelid lift?
A brow lift addresses sagging eyebrows and forehead wrinkles, while an eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) targets excess skin and fat on the upper and/or lower eyelids. Often, both procedures are performed together for comprehensive upper facial rejuvenation.
How long do the results of a brow lift last?
The results of a brow lift are generally long-lasting, but the natural ageing process continues and the brows can gradually descend again over time. How long results last varies between people.
Will a brow lift make me look surprised?
A skilled plastic surgeon aims for a natural-looking result, avoiding an overly 'surprised' appearance. The technique will be tailored to your individual facial anatomy and desired aesthetic to achieve a refreshed, not startled, look.
What is the typical recovery time for a brow lift?
Most patients can return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, with more strenuous activities typically resumed after 4 to 6 weeks. Swelling and bruising gradually subside over several weeks to months.
How to choose a surgeon for brow lift in Australia
- Look for FRACS (Plast) or an equivalent surgical fellowship and check AHPRA registration. Only doctors with specialist registration in surgery may call themselves a surgeon.
- Ask to see brow lift results on patients with a starting point similar to yours, and which complications the surgeon sees and how they are managed.
- Meet two or three surgeons. Ask about technique, experience, realistic results, recovery, and total cost.
- Cosmetic surgery needs a GP referral, two consultations and a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the second consultation and signed consent before you can book or pay a deposit.
General information
This page is general information for prospective patients researching brow lift in Australia. It is not personal medical advice. Clinical timing, eligibility, risks and outcomes vary: discuss your specific case with an AHPRA-registered practitioner at consultation.