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Brow Lift in Long Island, NY

As we age, one of the most visible signs of time is the descent of our brow and forehead. This sagging can lead to a tired, angry, or sad appearance, even when we feel the opposite. Brow lift surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to restore a more youthful, refreshed look by elevating the brow and smoothing out forehead wrinkles.

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What Is a Brow Lift?

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to raise the position of the eyebrows. This rejuvenates the upper face, creating a more youthful appearance. Brow lifts target the sagging of the brow and forehead region, which often results in heavy eyelids, deep forehead creases, and vertical lines between the eyebrows (often called frown lines or “11” lines). By tightening the skin and muscles in the forehead area, a brow lift helps create a smoother, more open, and refreshed look.

Who Is a Candidate for Brow Lift Surgery?

Ideal candidates for brow lift surgery may include individuals who:

  • Are in good general health
  • Are non-smokers, as smoking can impede healing
  • Have drooping eyebrows that contribute to a tired or angry appearance
  • Experience deep forehead wrinkles or lines between the brows
  • Have realistic expectations about the results

Patients typically seek a brow lift in their 40s to 60s when signs of aging become more noticeable. However, younger individuals with naturally low-set brows or those looking to enhance their appearance may also consider the procedure. A consultation with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Bienstock can help determine if a brow lift is right for you.

What Are the Benefits of a Brow Lift?

Brow lift surgery offers several cosmetic and emotional benefits, including:

  • A more awake, refreshed, and youthful look
  • Eliminate vision obstruction from sagging brow skin
  • Improve facial harmony
  • Boost confidence
  • Long-lasting results

What Are My Brow Lift Options?

There are several techniques available for brow lift surgery, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient:

  • Endoscopic Brow Lift: This is the most modern and minimally invasive technique. It involves small incisions made behind the hairline through which a small camera (endoscope) is inserted, allowing the surgeon to see the underlying muscles and structures. The endoscopic brow lift results in minimal scarring, less tissue trauma, and a quicker recovery time.
  • Coronal Brow Lift: Also known as the traditional or open brow lift, this method involves a longer incision made across the top of the head, hidden within the hairline. While this technique allows for significant adjustments, it is more invasive and requires a longer recovery period.
  • Temporal Brow Lift: Also called the limited incision technique, this type of brow lift focuses on lifting the outer parts of the eyebrows and is typically performed through small incisions in the temples. It is less invasive than a full brow lift and is ideal for patients seeking more subtle improvements.
  • Direct Brow Lift: With this method, incisions are made directly above the eyebrows, making it particularly suitable for older patients or those with more significant brow sagging. While this technique is effective, it can leave visible scars, so it is generally less popular.

How Is Brow Lift Surgery Performed?


Initial Consultation

The initial consultation is a crucial step before undergoing brow lift surgery. During this appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your medical history, overall health, and the condition of your skin. They will also take the time to discuss your cosmetic goals and expectations, helping you understand what can realistically be achieved. Based on this information, the surgeon will recommend the best brow lift technique suited to your specific needs and provide a personalized treatment plan, which may include the option to combine facial rejuvenation procedures for more comprehensive results. The consultation is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about the surgery and recovery process. Importantly, it allows you to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in your surgeon’s expertise and approach.

Preoperative Instructions

To ensure smooth surgery and recovery, it is crucial for patients to follow specific preoperative instructions. One of the most important guidelines is to stop smoking several weeks before surgery, as nicotine can impair the healing process. Patients should also avoid blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, since these can increase the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. Additionally, because brow lift surgery is performed under anesthesia, it’s essential to arrange for transportation and have someone available to assist on the first day of recovery. Following a healthy, nutritious diet leading up to the surgery can also help improve the body’s ability to heal. Your surgeon will provide detailed preoperative instructions that are tailored to your individual needs.

During the Procedure

The brow lift procedure typically lasts between one and two hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the technique chosen. It begins with the administration of anesthesia, either general anesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation, to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the surgery. Once the patient is sedated, the surgeon makes incisions based on the selected technique, which could be along the hairline, in the temple area, or directly above the brows. The surgeon then lifts and repositions the skin and underlying tissues to elevate the brow to its desired position. In some cases, excess skin and fat may be removed to create a smoother and more youthful forehead appearance. After the adjustments are made, the incisions are carefully closed using sutures, which will either dissolve over time or be removed during a follow-up appointment.

What Can I Expect During Brow Lift Recovery?


Recovery from brow lift surgery can vary depending on the technique used and your body’s healing process. However, the general recovery timeline is as follows:

First Few Days

After a brow lift, it’s common to experience significant swelling and bruising around the eyes, forehead, and sometimes the upper cheeks. This is a normal part of the healing process and will gradually subside over time. While the surgery itself isn’t typically painful, you may feel mild discomfort in the days following the procedure. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage this. Keeping your head elevated is essential, as it helps to reduce swelling and promotes faster healing. During the initial recovery period, it’s important to avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting, allowing your body to rest and recover properly.

First Few Weeks

You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress and remove any sutures or bandages. Most patients are able to return to light activities and work within one to two weeks; however, it is important to avoid strenuous activities, bending, or lifting for at least four weeks to ensure proper healing. It’s also common to experience temporary numbness or tingling in the forehead or scalp, which should gradually resolve as the nerves heal over time.

Long-term Recovery

Complete healing of the incisions and internal tissues after a brow lift can take several months. During this time, swelling will gradually subside, and the final results will become more noticeable. The incisions are usually hidden within the hairline or natural skin creases, making them difficult to detect. Any visible scars that remain will fade over time, further enhancing the natural look of the results.

When Will I See My Brow Lift Results?

You will begin to notice improvements in the appearance of your brow and forehead within a few weeks of the surgery once the swelling and bruising subside. However, it may take several months for the final results to become fully apparent. As the tissues heal and adjust, your brow will settle into its new, elevated position, revealing a smoother, more youthful forehead. The results of a brow lift are long-lasting, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle and a good skincare routine.

Brow Lift FAQ


What other procedures can be combined with a brow lift?

Many patients combine brow lift surgery with other cosmetic procedures to achieve more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Popular options include eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), facelift, or non-surgical treatments like BOTOX® Cosmetic or dermal fillers.

Is brow lift surgery painful?

Most patients report mild discomfort rather than severe pain after brow lift surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort in the days following the procedure.

Does a brow lift leave scars?

A brow lift does leave scars, but they are typically minimal and well-hidden. Surgeons strategically place incisions within the hairline or natural skin creases, making them difficult to detect once healed. The type of brow lift technique used will influence the size and location of the scars. Over time, any visible scars will fade significantly, especially when proper postoperative care is followed. Most patients find that the cosmetic benefits far outweigh the minimal scarring.

What are the risks associated with a brow lift?

Like any surgery, brow lift procedures come with some risks, including infection, scarring, asymmetry, and nerve damage. However, these complications are rare, especially when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

How long do brow lift results last?

The results of a brow lift can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on various factors, including individual aging, skin type, and lifestyle choices. While the surgery provides a long-lasting improvement in brow position and forehead smoothness, the natural aging process continues, and some individuals may choose additional treatments in the future to maintain their refreshed appearance. Proper skincare, regular sunscreen use, and an overall healthy lifestyle can also help prolong the results of the procedure.

Interested in a Brow Lift in Long Island, NY?

If you’re considering a brow lift, Dr. Daniel Bienstock can help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. Call us today at (516) 776-9988 or complete our online contact form to schedule your consultation and take the next step.

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