A forehead lift is an aesthetic surgical procedure that significantly enhances facial expression, particularly in individuals who are born with a short brow-to-eye distance or have deep-set eyes. This intervention involves repositioning the soft tissues of the forehead upwards, allowing for the reshaping of the inner and middle portions of the eyebrows. As a result, the eye area appears more open, brighter, and more vibrant.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Forehead lift surgery is typically recommended for individuals whose eyebrows are structurally positioned lower on the upper face, creating a compressed or masked appearance around the eyes. Common indications for this surgery include:
- Inner and outer segments of the eyebrows positioned below the frontal bone
- Anatomically short brow-to-eye distance
- Deep-set, tired, or obscured eyes
- An illusion of excess upper eyelid skin due to low brow position (pseudo upper eyelid excess)
Forehead lift is often combined with temporal lift and, when necessary, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) in such patients.
Surgical Technique
Forehead lift surgery is most commonly performed using the endoscopic technique. This minimally invasive method involves small incisions hidden within the hair-bearing scalp. Using a camera-assisted approach, the tissues of the forehead and brow are gently released and repositioned according to natural anatomical vectors.
Key features of this technique:
- Incisions are hidden within the hair and not visible externally
- Facial muscles and nerves are preserved to the highest extent
- Inner and middle brow segments are lifted in a controlled manner
- The eyes become more defined, and the overall expression of the face appears brighter and more balanced
Aesthetic Benefits of Forehead Lift
- Enhanced eye definition: The pressure beneath the brows is relieved, making the eyes appear more open and lively
- Harmonized facial proportions: Balances the spatial relationship between the forehead, brows, and eyes
- Reduction of harsh lines: Softens deep lines and alleviates tired appearance around the eyes
- Decreased eyelid burden: Reduces the heaviness on the upper eyelids, potentially lowering the need for blepharoplasty or enhancing its results
Recovery Process
Since forehead lift is often performed alongside temporal lift, the recovery process closely resembles that of temporal lift surgery.
First Week:
- Swelling and bruising are more noticeable during the first 3 days
- Cold application and sleep position: Use cold compresses, keep blood pressure and heart rate low, and sleep with the head elevated
- Diet: Prefer a salt-free diet; avoid hard or chewy foods. If combined with a temporal lift, soft foods are recommended for the first 5 days due to temporal muscle sensitivity
- Pain Level: Most patients describe the discomfort as similar to a migraine (rated 4–5 out of 10). During hospitalization, special pain medications are used; after discharge, simple analgesics are typically sufficient. By day 4, pain scores usually drop to 0–1
- Eye symptoms: Since the area around the eyes is involved, temporary swelling, tearing, or irritation may occur
- Mask usage: A post-operative mask should be worn consistently to reduce swelling and help stabilize facial contours
- Bathing: Patients can wash their hair starting from day 2. Care should be taken not to pull the hair or use scented, allergenic shampoos
Week 1:
Facial bandages are removed. Swelling and edema may persist, but patients can resume daily activities (except exercise)
Week 2:
Light makeup and mild physical activities are allowed. Returning to work is usually possible. During the second-week check-up, facial massage is recommended to support lymphatic drainage and reduce edema. This should be performed 3 times a day for 2 minutes over a 2-month period.
1 Month:
Patients can resume sports and strenuous activities Participation in public events such as meetings or conferences is allowed
Important Considerations
- Use sun protection regularly
- Avoid smoking
- Do not sleep face down
- Perform doctor-recommended facial massages consistently
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, forehead lift carries some risk of complications such as infection, hematoma, or nerve injury. However, when performed by an experienced and qualified surgeon, these risks are minimized. Thorough pre-operative evaluation and patient education are crucial in reducing potential complications.
Forehead Lift and Combined Approaches
Forehead lift is often evaluated as part of a comprehensive upper face aesthetic plan, which may include:
- Temporal Lift: Elevation of the cheeks, outer corners of the eyes, and lateral brow segments
- Upper Eyelid Surgery: Removal of excess skin from the upper eyelids
- SVF or Fat Injection: Restoration of volume around the forehead and eyes
Combined planning ensures a more balanced and harmonious aesthetic outcome.
Conclusion
The forehead lift is not merely a superficial tightening procedure — it is a transformative technique that enhances facial proportions, eye expression, and overall appearance. When performed with the right indication, proper technique, and personalized planning, it yields highly effective and natural-looking results.