Procedures

Brow Lift

Is a brow lift right for you?

You can click on each heading below for more information.

Brow (Forehead) Lift for a Rejuvenated, Open-Eyed Appearance

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that addresses age-related changes in the upper third of the face — including drooping brows, forehead lines, and excess upper eyelid hooding. By elevating the brow and smoothing the forehead, this procedure can create a refreshed, awake, and balanced facial expression.

As the brow descends with age, it can contribute to a tired or stern appearance and may make the upper eyelids appear heavier. A brow lift restores the brow to a more youthful and harmonious position, helping your eyes and overall face look more open and alert.

What Is a Brow Lift?

A brow lift is a surgical procedure that lifts the brow and forehead tissues to a more youthful position, smoothing horizontal forehead lines and reducing downward-pulling brow contours. The goal isn’t just fewer wrinkles — it’s a more rested, confident, and natural-looking facial expression.

By repositioning the brow and relaxing the forehead muscles that cause deep creases, a brow lift can also relieve upper eyelid hooding that may make the eyes look narrower or heavier.

This procedure focuses on elevating the brow and smoothing the upper forehead — creating a more balanced and awake appearance.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for a brow lift if you experience:

  • Heavy or dropping eyebrows
  • Forehead lines or wrinkles
  • Hooding of the upper eyelids caused by brow descent
  • A tired or stern facial appearance
  • Desire for a refreshed, open-eyed look
  • Good overall health and realistic expectations

A brow lift can be performed alone or in combination with other facial rejuvenation procedures (such as upper eyelid blepharoplasty, facelift, or neck lift) for a more comprehensive result.

What Can a Brow Lift Address?

  • Drooping or low brows
  • Horizontal forehead lines
  • Vertical “frown” lines between the brows
  • Upper eyelid hooding caused by brow descent
  • Facial expression that appears tired or worried

This procedure focuses on elevating the brow and smoothing the upper forehead — creating a more balanced and awake appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have visible scars?
Incisions are typically placed within the hairline so scars are discreet and fade over time.

Is brow lift painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort that is controlled with medication.

Can a brow lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes — it’s commonly combined with upper eyelid blepharoplasty, facelift, or neck lift for full-face rejuvenation.

How soon will I see results?
Many patients notice improvement as swelling subsides, with continued refinement over several weeks.

The Consultation Process

Your journey begins with a detailed in person consultation with Dr. Sardiwalla and our team at Banff Plastic Surgery.
Your consultation includes:

  • A detailed facial assessment
  • Discussion of your cosmetic goals
  • Review of surgical options and expected outcomes
  • Identification of any functional concerns (e.g., brow position affecting eyelid appearance)
  • A personalized treatment plan is created

This conversation ensures you have a clear understanding of what brow lift surgery can achieve and how it fits into your overall facial harmony goals.

Digital imaging may be used to help you visualize potential outcomes. Risks, recovery, and expectations are reviewed thoroughly so you can make an informed decision.

How the Procedure Is Performed

A brow lift can be performed through several techniques depending on your anatomy and goals:

Endoscopic Brow Lift

  • Small incisions are made within the hairline
  • A miniature camera (endoscope) is used for precise tissue release
  • The brow is elevated and secured in a higher position
  • Scars are hidden within the hairline for minimal visibility

Limited Incision Brow Lift

  • Fewer and shorter incisions are placed in the hairline
  • Ideal for mild to moderate brow descent

Classic (Coronal) Brow Lift

  • A longer incision made behind the hairline
  • Allows comprehensive elevation and can also shorten the vertical height of the forehead bringing the hairline forward

The goal with all approaches is a natural-looking brow position and smooth, balanced forehead contour.

Recovery & Healing

Recovering from a brow lift typically involves:

  • First 48–72 hours: Swelling and mild discomfort
  • Day 5–7: Continued improvement
  • 7–10 days: Many patients return to work / social activities
  • 2–4 weeks: Gradual return to exercise and normal activities
  • Temporary numbness or tightness may be present during early healing

Most swelling and bruising resolve over the first week or two. You’ll be given tailored aftercare instructions to support smooth, comfortable healing.

Results

A brow lift refines the upper third of the face by:

  • Elevating sagging brows
  • Reducing forehead creases
  • Opening the appearance of the eyes
  • Smoothing expression lines

Results are often described as natural, refreshed, and balanced — not “surprised” or “fixed.” Because the changes are anatomical rather than superficial, many patients enjoy long-lasting improvement.

Risks & Considerations

Like all surgery, brow lift procedures carry certain risks, including:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring
  • Temporary or permanent nerve changes
  • Asymmetry 
  • Temporary hair loss around incision sites
  • Need for revision in rare cases

These risks will be reviewed thoroughly during your consultation, and every step will be taken to minimize them.

Ready to Learn More?

If you are considering a brow lift, we invite you to book a private consultation with Dr. Sardiwalla to explore your options.

Address

#217, 304 Old Canmore Road
Canmore, Alberta T1W 0L5

Phone

403-762-2055

Fax

403-762-8297

E-mail

info@banffplasticsurgery.ca

Office Hours

8:00am – 4:30pm
Monday – Friday
Closed weekends and statutory holidays