Forehead Lift (Brow Lift)

Forehead lift surgery, also called a brow lift, rejuvenates the upper face by lifting sagging brows, smoothing deep wrinkles, and restoring a more youthful, vibrant appearance. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas Sterry offers advanced forehead lift techniques at our NYC practice tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. 

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What Is a Brow Lift? 

A brow lift is a cosmetic procedure that elevates the brows and smooths out deep creases across the forehead. It restores a rested, alert appearance while reducing the heavy or tired expression caused by aging. 

A forehead lift addresses: 

  • Drooping or low-set brows 
  • Horizontal forehead wrinkles 
  • Glabellar lines (the “11s” between the eyebrows) 
  • A stern, tired, or aged facial expression 

By lifting and supporting the brow area, Dr. Sterry improves appearance and self-confidence with results that look natural—not “done.” 

Is a Forehead Lift Right for You? 

Dr. Sterry recommends forehead lift surgery for individuals who: 

  • Have sagging brows or deep forehead lines 
  • Appear tired, angry, or older than they feel 
  • Want long-lasting improvement that goes beyond injectable treatments 
  • Are in good general health and have realistic expectations

During your consultation, Dr. Sterry will assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and determine whether surgical or nonsurgical options—or a combination—will deliver your best results. 

The Ultimate Guide to Facial Contouring - Sterry, MD

Sculpted Beauty: A Definitive Guide To Facial Contouring

Dr. Sterry’s free e-guide, A Complete Guide To Facial Contouring, is a must-have for women and men who want enhanced facial features.

In the guide, you’ll learn how Dr. Sterry uses precise facial sculpting techniques such as liposuction, facial implants, and buccal fat removal to create the V-shaped appearance that’s universally considered the hallmark of an attractive face.

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The Ultimate Guide to Facial Contouring - Sterry, MD

“I had the most incredible experience at Dr. Sterry's practice…I underwent neck/chin liposuction, and the results are astounding. I still look like myself, but my jawline is completely renewed.”
– Claire M., 5-Star Google review

Our Advanced Brow Lift Techniques 

Dr. Sterry personalizes each brow lift based on your facial structure, degree of aging, and aesthetic preferences. He offers the following techniques: 

Endoscopic Forehead Lift 

  • Minimally invasive with smaller incisions 
  • Camera-assisted for precise lifting 
  • Ideal for younger patients (20s to 40s) or those with mild to moderate brow descent 
  • Shorter recovery time and minimal scarring 

Coronal (Classic) Forehead Lift 

  • Traditional technique with an incision hidden within the hairline 
  • Best suited for older patients (50s to 70s) with advanced signs of aging 
  • Allows for comprehensive lifting and smoothing 

Temporal Forehead Lift 

  • Targets the outer brow only 
  • Subtle lifting for early aging changes 
  • Often paired with other facial procedures 

Comparing Forehead Lift Techniques 

ConsiderationEndoscopicCoronalTemporal
InvasivenessLowModerateLow
DowntimeShortModerateShort
OutcomesAll techniques provide tailored, natural-looking results.

How the Procedure Works: Step-by-Step 

Dr. Sterry typically performs forehead lift surgery using either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Here’s what to expect: 

Consultation & Planning 

Dr. Sterry conducts a detailed evaluation of your facial anatomy and discusses surgical versus nonsurgical options.  

Day of Surgery 

An anesthesiologist administers anesthesia for your comfort. Dr. Sterry then makes your incisions based on the chosen technique and precisely lifts and repositions the tissue to achieve ideal results. 

Recovery

Initial swelling and bruising subside in 1 to 2 weeks, and most patients return to light activities within 7 to 10 days. Final results continue to improve over several months. While every patient’s recovery varies, this overview provides a reasonable idea of what to expect so you can feel confident before embarking on your transformation. 

Pre- and Post-Surgery Guidelines 

Pre-Surgery Do’s 

  • Follow all instructions provided by Dr. Sterry 
  • Arrange for transportation and post-op support 
  • Prepare recovery items like ice packs and medications 

Pre-Surgery Don’ts 

  • Avoid alcohol and smoking at least 2 weeks prior 
  • Don’t take unapproved medications or supplements 

Post-Surgery Do’s 

  • Keep your head elevated 
  • Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet 
  • Attend all follow-up visits  

Post-Surgery Don’ts 

  • Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by Dr. Sterry 
  • Don’t expose incisions to direct sunlight 

Brow Lift FAQ 

What are the signs I might need a forehead lift?

Common signs you might benefit from a forehead lift include sagging brows, deep forehead wrinkles, and frown lines that give you a tired or aged appearance. 


How long do the results of a forehead lift typically last?

Results can last 10 to 15 years, depending on factors such as skin quality and lifestyle.


What’s the difference between a forehead lift and BOTOX®?

BOTOX provides temporary improvement by relaxing muscles. A forehead lift offers structural correction with long-term results.


Does a brow lift help with droopy eyelids?

While a forehead lift can reduce some eyelid sagging, I may recommend combining it with eyelid surgery for comprehensive results. 


What’s the best way to maintain forehead lift results? 

To prolong your results, use daily sun protection, follow a medical-grade skincare routine, and consider BOTOX for wrinkle prevention. With proper care, results typically last 10 to 15 years or more. 

Dr. Thomas P. Sterry Get to Know

Dr. Thomas P. Sterry

Thomas Sterry, MD, is a board-certified New York City plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He has been president of both the New York State Society of Plastic Surgeons and the New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons. In addition, he sits on the executive council of the New York County Medical Society and has been a delegate to the Medical Society of the State of New York for years. At his inviting, boutique-style practice in Manhattan, he focuses on each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals so that he can provide the most attractive and natural-looking outcomes possible.

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Ready To Refresh Your Look? 

If you’re considering a forehead lift in Manhattan, NYC, Dr. Sterry will guide you with expertise and compassion. Request a consultation online or call us at (212) 249-4020 to discover how this procedure can help you look as vibrant as you feel.

A Reputation Built on Results

Subtle results
Dr. Sterry and his team are the best! They are all equally as talented as they are caring! Highly recommend
I went to Dr. Sterry to get neck/chin lipo so that I could feel confident and more myself on my wedding...
Dr. Sterry is the best!! I did chin lipo with him I had never had plastic surgery before and I did a...

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