BROW LIFT
Considering a brow lift?
“I look so tired all the time.”
“People are always asking me if I’m upset, even when everything’s fine.”
“I struggle to put on my makeup – there’s this extra droopy skin.”
Any of these statements sound familiar? No matter how well we take care of ourselves, facial aging is inevitable – and often the first signs are around the eyes. Aging in the upper third of the face can sometimes manifest as looking fatigued, angry, or even sad all of the time, creating a disconnect between our inner, youthful self and our outward appearance. Rejuvenation of this area, commonly known as a brow lift, is an extremely impactful procedure that is often overlooked by both surgeons and patients – but is one of the key techniques Dr. Jason uses to brighten and highlight the eye area and above.
Dr. Jason Roostaeian is exceptionally skilled at creating the most natural looking brow lift results for patients.
Am I a good candidate for a brow lift?
If you are experiencing either of the following, you may be an ideal candidate for a natural looking brow lift:
Medial-Lateral Disproportion
Scrolling social media, flipping through fashion magazines, or perusing pictures from your youth will reveal that typically, an attractive, ideal brow has a tail that sits higher than its root. With aging, the tail of the brow descends, often leading to lateral hooding, described below.
Lateral Hooding
As the tail of the brow sags, this is the extra skin that forms between the outer part of the upper eyelid and the eyebrow. The skin hangs, or “hoods,” over the lateral (outer) corner of the eye. Having excess skin in this area can make applying makeup – particularly winged eyeliner – impossible. Brow lift surgery that raises the lateral portion of the brow will take up the excess skin at the same time.
Hairline Abnormalities
Brow lifts can transform both high and low hairlines in men and women, restoring a more aesthetic proportion to the forehead area. Dr. Jason uses careful surgical technique to hide the incision in the hairline, or in one of the natural grooves of the forehead.
Natural looking brow lift results
There are multiple approaches to achieving a natural looking brow lift result through surgery. The three main approaches include: 1) limited incision techniques (commonly referred to as “temporal brow lift), endoscopic brow lifts, and full length incision techniques (commonly referred to as a “coronal brow lift”). The full length incision techniques can be either at the hairline or within the scalp depending on how high the patient’s hairline is relative to their brow. It is important to avoid raising an already high hairline. Scarring is generally very well concealed with all the above techniques. Each of the approaches have advantages and disadvantages. During your consultation with Dr Jason, he will go over which technique best suits your particular needs.
It is also important to remember that the different areas of the face, such as the eyes, cheeks, and neck will all eventually age together and should “match” each other. It is, therefore, typically advisable to surgically correct more than one area of the face for a natural look that maintains “facial harmony”. Since most of our interactions begins with making eye contact, rejuvenation of the eyes play an important role in turning back the clock and getting the refreshed but natural look most are hoping to achieve.
UCLA brow lift consultation
Coming in for a consultation with Dr. Roostaeian is the best way to determine whether natural looking brow lift surgery is right for you.
During your meeting, you’ll have the chance to explain your concerns and ask as many questions as you need, without being rushed or feeling obligated to book a procedure. Dr. Roostaeian prefers to listen and get to know patients first, which helps him guide you to a solution that works best for you. Together, you’ll discuss the look you’re trying to achieve, and you’ll be able to view standardized before and after photos of Dr. Jason’s previous results that are similar to your aesthetic goals.
All consultation fees may be credited to any subsequent service performed by Dr. Jason. To book a consultation, please complete the form and we will contact you within two business days.
Alternatively, you may call 310.825.8827 to speak with Lili to make an appointment.
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Dr. Jason and our staff at the UCLA Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Suite are ready to get you started on your journey. Whether to answer questions, schedule a consultation, or simply to listen, we're ready when you are.

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Everything you need to know about brow lift surgery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
PREPARING FOR EYEBROW LIFT SURGERY
During your consultation, Dr. Roostaeian will listen to your goals, answer any questions, and help you determine the best treatment plan for you. If you decide to reserve a date for your rhinoplasty, Dr. Jason’s surgery coordinator, Lili, will also schedule you a pre-op appointment to take place about a week or two prior to your surgery.
As with any surgical procedure, you must be physically and mentally fit for nose job surgery. To ensure patient safety, Dr. Jason only operates on patients who have achieved facial maturity, do not smoke, and who have received anesthesia clearance by their primary physician.
For detailed information on how to get ready for a nose job, click here to read Dr. Roostaeian’s blog post, Preparing for Rhinoplasty Surgery.
Am I a good candidate for a brow lift?
There are many factors involved with how your face ages, both your genetics and environmental exposures play a crucial role. Many patients notice their first signs aging around their eyes. Therefore, there is no particular age that one should wait before considering a browlift. The procedure is effective for anyone who feels as though they have excess fullness and/or skin laxity around their eyes.
In addition, Dr. Jason will only perform a brow lift on patients who meet the following criteria:
- Are in good health
- Do not smoke
- Are able to avoid any blood-thinning medications for several weeks
- Have been cleared for surgery by a primary care physician
- Have reasonable expectations and aesthetic goals
What are the different types of brow lifts?
There are three main approaches to surgically addressing the brow: 1) limited incision techniques (commonly referred to as “temporal brow lift), endoscopic brow lifts, and full length incision techniques (commonly referred to as a “coronal brow lift”). The full length incision techniques can be either at the hairline or within the scalp depending on how high the patient’s hairline is relative to their brow. It is important to avoid raising an already high hairline. Scarring is generally very well concealed with all the above techniques. Each of the approaches have advantages and disadvantages. During your consultation with Dr Jason, he will go over which technique best suits your particular needs.
How do I find the best brow lift surgeon?
When searching for the best brow lift surgeon to perform your eyebrow lift, Dr. Roostaeian advises you to consider several key factors:
- Credentials and Certifications: Research your prospective brow surgeon online – not just on their website, but on industry credentialing sites such as www.surgery.org, which lists board certified plastic surgeons. Do not choose a cosmetic surgeon who is a member of the ABCS – they do not receive the extensive training and oversight that plastic surgeons do. Look for plastic/cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Roostaeian, who are ABPS and ASAPS members.
- Before and After Photos: The doctor you choose to perform your brow lift should be happy to show you an extensive array of standardized before and after photographs. Scrutinize them carefully, making sure the lighting is consistent and the various views are shown with detail. View enough brow lift pictures to determine whether or not the work is of high quality, with an aesthetic that matches your personal goals. Dr. Jason strives to provide patients with the highest quality of standardized brow lift photographs so you can feel confident in your choice. Click here to view Dr. Jason’s gallery of before and after eyebrow lift photos. [LINK]
- Office and Surgery Facility: Before choosing an aesthetic surgeon to perform your brow lift surgery, closely evaluate the office staff, as well as the surgery facility. All of the staff should be helpful and friendly, and pleased to provide you with detailed information about their operating rooms and equipment. Dr. Jason and his staff are proud to be affiliated with UCLA, world renowned for state-of-the-art surgical facilities and patient care. Click to learn more about our top-ranked hospital.[LINK]
- Personal Connection: Seeing eye to eye with your brow lift surgeon is just as important as assessing their operating skills. Plastic surgery is a very personal endeavor, and Dr. Jason strongly believes in creating a connection with all of his patients prior to heading into the OR.
Click to read Dr. Jason’s blog post How to Find the Best Plastic Surgeon.
How much does a brow lift cost?
Brow lift costs vary considerably from patient to patient. The exact cost of eyebrow lift surgery will depend on the complexity of your procedure, and you will receive a written quote following your consultation.
Can I combine a brow lift with other procedures?
It is possible to have multiple procedures done at the same time. For instance, including a facelift and/or eyelid procedure (blepharoplasty) with a browlift is very common. However, it is important to keep the planned operating time to less than 6-8 hours in order to optimize your safety. Increased operative times have been shown to increase the risk for complications such as infections and risk for deep vein clots that can lead to pulmonary emboli.
How do I prepare for brow lift surgery?
When preparing for a brow lift procedure, follow all instructions issued by Dr. Roostaeian, his office, and the staff at the UCLA Surgery Center. These guidelines include, but are not limited to:
THREE WEEKS PRIOR TO SURGERY
- Avoid smoking cigarettes, wearing a nicotine patch or using nicotine gum three weeks prior and three weeks after surgery. All nicotine products inhibits circulation and slows your healing process.
TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO SURGERY
- Do not take aspirin or any aspirin products. These medications cause bleeding which can lead to
complications. You may only use Tylenol. - If you are using Retin-A, discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery date. Do not recieve a dermabrasion, chemical peel, or laser, within five days prior to your surgery date.
- Do not take Vitamin E (it will cause you to bleed).
- Do not cut your hair (even your bangs) two weeks prior to surgery. Longer hair helps hide fresh incisions. Also, longer hair is easier to manage in surgery (we braid it to keep it out of the way).
- Do not color, perm, or chemically treat your hair during the 2-week period before and after surgery. Failure to do so may result in hair breakage and hair loss.
- Make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the doctor sees you the day following surgery.
- It is extremely important that we are informed about any medications or supplements that you are currently taking such as diet pills, mega doses of vitamins, prescriptions for depression, etc., Dr.Roostaeian and your anesthesiologist need to know every medication that is in your system.
DAY BEFORE/DAY OF BROW LIFT SURGERY
- Shampoo your hair and body with an antiseptic soap the night before surgery. We prefer you to use Hibiclens (sold at most drug stores) to wash your hair, face, and body (avoid the eyes) the night before and/or morning of surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything (not even water) after midnight. The morning of surgery you may take your regular medications such as blood pressure, heart, thyroid, etc. with a small sip of water.
- Leave all your jewelry at home, including any body (pierced) jewelry. Do not wear contact lenses- not even extended wear. Remove all makeup. Do not apply lotion or creams. Bring a robe, gown (one that will slip easily over your head or one that buttons up the front) and slippers.
- DO NOT “WORKOUT” THE DAY BEFORE OR THE MORNING OF SURGERY. This will dehydrate your body and you will not be able to replenish it with water.
Is there a brow lift surgery shopping list?
Before having brow lift surgery, Dr. Jason Roostaeian recommends patients purchase these items:
- Button-up pajamas – to avoid pulling any clothes over your scalp and face after surgery.
- Witch Hazel – Use to clean incisions in the hair to avoid bleaching.
- Zip Lock bags to put ice water and keep brow area cool for swelling..
- Foods with Very Low Salt- you want to really minimize salt, ideally to less than 1-2 grams per day, as this will help reduce your swelling. You want to maintain the low salt diet for at least 6 weeks and ideally for 3-6 months.
undergoing BROW LIFT surgery
When you arrive for your nose job surgery, the UCLA Surgery Center nurses will prepare you for your operation. Dr. Roostaeian will stop in to answer any remaining questions you may have, and to make surgical markings for the OR.
Once you have received the anesthesia and are comfortably sleeping, Dr. Jason will perform the rhinoplasty as discussed during your previous meetings – either an open or closed procedure. He generally begins by addressing any dorsal concerns, followed by the nasal tip and finally, any nostril adjustments that need to be made.
Dr. Jason will explain to you during your consultation that sometimes, a surgical plan may need to be slightly amended depending upon what is revealed in the operating room. He will make adjustments as needed in order to achieve the results that you’ve agreed upon.
Will I have local or general anesthesia during my brow lift surgery?
Typically, Dr. Roostaeian performs brow lift surgery using general anesthesia. Local anesthesia with IV sedation is also possible, though rare. During your pre-operative appointment, Dr. Jason will review your options and help you decide on an whether to use local vs general anesthesia to best suit your needs.
Is a brow lift an outpatient procedure?
After your brow lift surgery, most patients will not need to stay overnight in the hospital. Typically, brow lift surgery with Dr. Jason Roostaeian is outpatient surgery, which means that once you’re cleared by the UCLA Surgery Center recovery team (usually after a few hours), you may go home or to your aftercare location.
However, patients who have undergone a facelift in conjunction with their procedure are required to stay overnight. Dr. Jason and the nurses at the UCLA Surgery Center will monitor your progress and make sure you have the highest standard of care.
How long does eyebrow lift surgery take?
Although each case is unique, brow lift surgery with Dr. Roostaeian takes about 1 – 2 hours. If you are having multiple procedures, your surgery time will vary. Prior to your surgery, Dr. Jason will let you know the approximate duration.
Can I combine a brow lift with other procedures?
Yes, it is actually quite common for Dr. Jason Roostaeian to combine a brow lift with other procedures. These most commonly include an eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) as well as a facelift and neck lift.
Patients who opt for a facelift in conjunction with a brow lift will stay overnight for monitoring at the world-class UCLA Surgery Center.
What are the main brow lift surgery risks?
Serious complications following brow lift surgery, while possible, are unlikely. Some potential complications can be avoided by carefully following Dr. Jason’s instructions.
- In addition to the usual risks associated with anesthesia, other risks include:
- Headaches: not uncommon but most common limited to the first 1-2 weeks
- Hematoma: Is a collection of blood beneath the skin and can be treated without compromising result
- Brow elevation weakness or paralysis; typically temporary; permanent weakness is very rare.
- Infections are very rare.
- Numbness of scalp, can last months to even a year.
- Itching sensation in scalp
- Hair loss adjacent to incision
- Pulmonary emboli: Extremely rare; a blood clot that travels to the blood vessels in the lung.
BROW LIFT SURGERY recovery
Prior to your nose job procedure, Dr. Roostaeian will go over what you can expect after your surgery and answer any questions you may have. Before being discharged from the UCLA Surgery Center, you will receive detailed post-op instructions from the staff, as well as information about your follow-up appointment with Dr. Jason. If at any time you have a question or concern after your surgery, our staff is available to assist you. Dr. Jason cares deeply about providing the highest standard of care for his patients, and will closely monitor your healing process.
As with any surgical procedure, recovery from a rhinoplasty proceeds in stages. While everyone’s healing process is different, you may expect the immediate recovery period to take about one to two weeks, followed by an activity restriction. Full healing and results will be apparent around the 3-4 month mark, while your scar (if applicable) and swelling will continue to improve for 6 months to one year.
How do I control swelling after an eyebrow lift?
Swelling is normal following surgery. Some measures to reduce the amount of swelling include: a) Try to keep your head above the level of your heart at all times for the first 2 weeks. Dr Jason recommends a large wedge that elevates your back and your head. b) Use cooling measures such ice water soaked gauze or ice water in a ziplock for the first 48-72 hours. Your skin should just feel cool to the touch. Avoid anything completely frozen such as gel packs as this can cause damage to your skin. c) Avoid activities that involve bending over or straining. You should also minimize your salt intake as much as possible after surgery. Ideally you should ingest no more than 1-2 grams per day for the first 3 months after surgery. All of these measures combined will help minimize the amount of swelling you encounter following surgery.
What can I expect after a brow lift?
Although every patient is unique, here is a general idea of what to expect after brow lift surgery with Dr. Jason Roostaeian:
- Numbness in the scalp and brow area are normal and will disappear over the next few months. Some swelling and bruising are to be expected. If you develop extreme redness, pain, fever, or sudden swelling in one area of the scalp or brow, please call the office. If you have any problems or concerns, please call us.
- The next day after your head dressing is removed, begin shampooing your hair daily in the shower using shampoo. (This instruction will not apply to you if you have also had nose surgery.) Let the water and shampoo run over your scalp. Dont put high water pressure directly over your incisions. The goal is to keep your incisions relatively clean to decrease the chances of bacterial formation without mechanically disrupting a fresh incision. The way to manage this is to be delicate but persistent to avoid build-up.
- Keep your head elevated 30-45 degrees for at least a week to minimize swelling. Also, do not bend over. It’s important to keep your head above your heart.
- Clean incisions (face, eyes, and/or neck) very gently with half strength witch hazel (use tap water to dilute). Q-Tips will work perfectly to remove crusts from suture lines.
- Do not color, perm, or chemically treat your hair during the 3-week period before and after surgery. Failure to do so may result in hair breakage and hair loss.
- Keep animals away from your incisions. Do not allow animals to sleep in your bed for 4 weeks.
- During the first week post surgery have a soft, very low-salt diet, no chewing and minimal amount of fluids.
- During week two up to 3 months, maintain a low-salt diet with minimal fluids.
- Do not consume aspirin or ibuprofen products within 2 weeks post surgery.
- No nicotine products within 4 weeks post surgery.
- Be very gentle when caring for your hair for 4 weeks. No brushing, pulling, or rubbing on the hair around the sutures. Do not use any heat (curlers, curling iron, blow dryers, etc.) on your hair as your scalp and face can be burned very easily.
- No extreme temperatures on your brow or scalp such as heating pads or ice packs. Your nerve endings and blood supply in some areas have been temporarily disturbed and you can easily burn or freeze.
- Be careful when pulling clothing over your head.
- Avoid the direct sun or tanning spa for at least 12 weeks following surgery as fresh scars will permanently pigment (turn brown).
When will I see my final brow lift results?
It takes about six weeks to to see the final brow lift results after surgery with Dr. Roostaeian. Although much of the swelling and bruising subsides over the course of the first couple of weeks post-op, some slight swelling can remain for about 6 weeks. Your scars (though hidden) will continue to fade and generally will virtually disappear in time.
When can I exercise or work out after brow lift surgery?
For the first 2-3 weeks following brow lift surgery, you want to avoid straining (lifting anything more than 5 lbs), or getting your heart rate/blood pressure up as this can lead to bleeding. After 2-3 weeks you should avoid mechanical forces that will stress or put tension on your healing incisions for 3 months. This means you should avoid high impact activities that lead to excessive movement of your head and neck, such a running. If you feel up for it, after 2-3 weeks, Dr. Jason Roostaeian recommends starting with the seated stationary bicycle which is low impact and minimizes movement of your head and neck. Listen to what your body is telling you at all times, for instance stop the workout if you experience any new discomfort in your brow area. Remember, getting plenty of rest and reducing your overall activity will give you time to heal and speed up your recovery.
As always, consult with Dr. Jason if you have any questions about your post-brow lift healing process.
What does a brow lift scar look like?
Dr. Jason Roostaeian typically performs temporal brow lifts, during which he places a very small incision hidden within your hairline near your temples. The scar fades over time, remaining extremely inconspicuous and undetectable in most people.
How soon can I go out after a brow lift?
One of the benefits of a brow lift with Dr. Jason Roostaeian is that the scars are hidden by your scalp and/or hairline. Therefore, at about 2-3 weeks the swelling and bruising has resolved and most patients will feel comfortable with attending special engagements.
How much time off work should I take after an eyebrow lift?
While everyone heals at a different pace, there are general guidelines to help determine how much work or school you’ll miss after a brow lift. To promote proper healing, Dr. Roostaeian recommends taking at least 1 week off after eyebrow surgery. Most patients are able to work from home or do homework after a few days of rest. Most patients with non-strenous jobs can return to work after about one week. If your work requires significant physical activity (lifting more than 5 pounds) you want to wait at least 2-3 weeks to prevent any increases in your blood pressure that can lead to bleeding while your’re still in the early stages of healing.
How long do the results of a brow lift last?
Just as with any rejuvenation procedure with Dr. Roostaeian, we cannot prevent ongoing aging but we can set the clock back many years! With that said, the brow lift seems to be one of the more resilient procedures we perform. It is very rare for patients to request a repeat browlift procedure in less than 20 years.
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