Everything You Need to Know About Brow Lifts

Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt like your face didn’t quite match how vibrant you felt inside? For example, maybe you have sagging brows or deep forehead lines that give off a tired or grumpy vibe, even when you’re feeling great. You’re not alone! These subtle details can significantly impact how others see us—and how we see ourselves. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to refresh your look, this guide by the Jonathan Cabin, MD, team has everything you need to know about brow lifts and what they can do for you.

 

Why Consider A Brow Lift?

A brow lift, often called a forehead lift, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the position of the eyebrows and relieves heaviness over the upper eye and temples. Over time, gravity and the loss of skin elasticity can cause the brows to droop, especially on the sides, creating an aged, tired or stern look. A brow lift can help give your face a fresher, friendlier, more alert appearance by repositioning the brows and opening the eye area,  and can secondarily decrease deep forehead lines by reducing strain on the underlying muscle.

 

Several Types Of Brow Lifts

Although there are countless brow lift techniques, at Jonathan Cabin, MD, we offer several surgical procedures and one non-surgical treatment that can create a lifting effect on your brows. Let’s break them down.

 

Surgical Brow Lift

The most common surgical brow lift technique performed by Dr. Cabin is the endoscopic, or endoscopic-style, brow lift. This is a minimally invasive surgical option with long-lasting and natural results—perfect for those with an aged or genetically low brow who want all signs of surgery to be invisible. Using two to four tiny incisions hidden behind your hairline, Dr. Cabin uses specialized instruments to release and reposition the underlying tissues and muscles for a more flattering and youthful appearance. 

The best part? Because the incisions are so small and behind the hairline, scarring is minimal, and recovery tends to be faster than with older, more invasive techniques. 

Depending on your anatomy and goals, several other surgical techniques can be implemented for brow lifting, with access points in the mid-forehead or just at the edge of the brow hair. Two of the main advantages of these approaches are that they generally don’t require anesthesia and can be done in the office with numbing injections. 

If you’re looking for a powerful yet natural improvement that sticks around for years, surgical brow lifting is definitely your best bet.

 

Chemical Brow Lift

A chemical brow lift is a non-surgical option that uses injectable neurotoxins to create a subtle, temporary lift. It relaxes the muscles that pull your brows down and allows the brow to lift slightly, opening up your eyes and smoothing out wrinkles. 

The results of a chemical brow lift aren’t as long-lasting or impactful as a surgical lift, but it’s a great option if surgery is not an option and you’re comfortable with subtle changes. You can pop in our office for a quick Botox brow lift treatment session and get right back to your day with no visible signs that you had anything done—except for a fresher, more awake look, of course!

The effects of a chemical brow lift can take 1 to 2 weeks to kick in and typically last around 3 to 4 months, so it’s not a permanent solution. Depending on your muscular anatomy, it also does not consistently work on every person. But it’s ideal if you’re not quite ready for surgery, want to make minor changes, or want to prevent the deepening of some fine lines and wrinkles in the brow and eye area. 

 

Brow Lift FAQs

Are There Any Risks Or Side Effects?

Like any cosmetic procedure, surgical and chemical brow lifts have risks and potential side effects. 

For the surgical brow lift, there is a small risk of complications like infection, numbness, hair loss or temporary nerve issues. However, these are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Cabin. The most common side effects include swelling and bruising, and they fade within a couple of weeks. Following post-op instructions can help ensure a fast, easy recovery.

The chemical brow lift, on the other hand, generally has fewer risks. The most common reactions include minor redness, bruising, or swelling at the injection sites that usually disappears within a few days. There is also a risk that the treatment fails due to muscular differences between patients.

We always make sure patients are fully informed about any potential risks and side effects so they can make an informed decision. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask at your consultation. Overall, though, both procedures are relatively safe when done by a qualified provider, and our team at Jonathan Cabin, MD, is more than capable and experienced to perform both brow lift options offered here.

Should I Get A Chemical Or Surgical Brow Lift?

Choosing between a chemical and surgical brow lift depends on what matters most to you—ease and convenience or a more dramatic, long-lasting change. A chemical brow lift is ideal if you’re looking for a quick, non-invasive option to smooth and lift the brow area, offering a subtle refresh. This might be a good fit if you’re new to cosmetic treatments and want to see how a brow lift might look on you.

A surgical brow lift, however, can create a more substantial lift and a refined contour, making it a better option if you have more advanced signs of aging or want longer-lasting results. While it involves more commitment upfront, many find the outcome worth it. Think about what you hope to achieve, your comfort with downtime, and how you want your look to evolve over time.

Can Brow Lifts Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Absolutely! Brow lifts can be combined with other procedures to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. If you’re considering a brow lift, you might be able to opt for multiple surgeries at once, like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or a facelift, to tackle several signs of aging in one go. This approach can enhance overall facial harmony and reduce the need for separate recovery periods.

For a chemical brow lift, it’s common to combine it with additional Botox or filler injections in other areas for a balanced look throughout the face. 

Discussing your goals with Dr. Cabin can help you decide the best combination of treatments for your needs.

 

Why Wait To Eliminate Signs Of Aging?

Dr. Jonathan Cabin and his team in Arlington, VA, offer expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you feel confident and beautiful (or handsome!). If you’re curious about what a brow lift can do for you, schedule a consultation today. We’re here to answer all your questions and guide you through the process with honesty, professionalism, and compassion. Call us at (703) 782-4141 or visit cabinmd.com to book your appointment and get started!