A heavy brow or deeply furrowed forehead can make you look tired, stern, or older than you feel. A brow lift, also called a forehead lift, is one of the most effective surgical procedures for restoring a refreshed, alert appearance to the upper face. At John Hilinski, MD Facial Plastic Surgery in San Diego, Dr. John M. Hilinski combines Harvard-trained precision with a deeply personalized approach to brow lifting, delivering results that look balanced, rested, and entirely your own.
Dr. Hilinski is a Harvard Medical School graduate, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience, and a fellowship-trained specialist dedicated exclusively to the face and neck.
Whether you are bothered by drooping eyebrows, deep forehead creases, or persistent frown lines between the brows, a brow lift can address these concerns with lasting, beautifully balanced results.
What Is a Brow Lift?
A brow lift is a surgical procedure designed to elevate the position of the eyebrows, smooth forehead wrinkles, and reduce the appearance of frown lines in the glabellar region (the area between the brows). As the face ages, the soft tissue and skin of the forehead gradually descend, pulling the brows downward and creating a heavy, fatigued look. A brow lift repositions these structures to restore a more open, alert expression.1
The procedure addresses:
- Drooping or sagging eyebrows that hood the upper eyelids
- Deep horizontal forehead lines
- Vertical frown lines between the brows (glabellar furrows)
- Brow asymmetry or uneven brow position
- A persistently tired, angry, or stern facial expression
The goal of a brow lift is never to make someone look surprised or overdone. It is about restoring the natural architecture of the upper face so that patients look like a well-rested, refreshed version of themselves.
Types of Brow Lift Surgery
Dr. Hilinski tailors the brow lift technique to each patient’s anatomy, aesthetic goals, and hairline position. There is no single approach that works for everyone, and selecting the right technique is one of the most important decisions in achieving a harmonious outcome.
Endoscopic Brow Lift
The endoscopic brow lift is the most commonly performed forehead lift technique at our San Diego practice. Using a small camera (endoscope) and several tiny incisions hidden within the hairline, Dr. Hilinski lifts and repositions the underlying forehead tissue with minimal disruption to the scalp. This approach results in less scarring, reduced numbness, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open techniques. It is ideal for patients with moderate brow descent and good skin elasticity.
Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift
The temporal brow lift focuses on elevating the outer (lateral) portion of the brow, which is often the first area to descend with age. Small incisions are placed within the temporal hairline, making this a targeted option for patients whose primary concern is lateral brow drooping or hooding of the outer upper eyelid. This technique is frequently combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) for comprehensive upper facial rejuvenation.
Trichophytic (Hairline) Brow Lift
This technique uses an incision placed directly at the hairline. It is particularly well-suited for patients with a high forehead or those who want to simultaneously lower the hairline while lifting the brow. The scar is placed precisely at the hairline transition and typically heals to a very fine, inconspicuous line.
Coronal Brow Lift
The traditional coronal brow lift uses a longer incision across the top of the scalp, behind the hairline. While less commonly performed today due to the availability of less invasive options, it remains appropriate for patients with significant brow descent or complex forehead anatomy.
What About Ponytail Lifts and Fox Eye Lifts?
You may have seen these trending terms on social media. A “ponytail lift” and a “fox eye lift” are informal names for brow lift variations that focus on elevating and laterally sweeping the outer brow to create an almond-shaped, lifted eye appearance. These effects can be achieved through a temporal or endoscopic brow lift when performed with the appropriate technique and artistic judgment. Dr. Hilinski will discuss whether this aesthetic goal aligns with your facial anatomy during your consultation.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Brow Lift?
Most patients who benefit from a brow lift are in their 40s to 60s, though the procedure is appropriate for younger patients with hereditary brow descent or asymmetry. You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have eyebrows that sit at or below the brow bone
- Notice that your upper eyelids appear heavy due to brow descent rather than excess eyelid skin alone
- Have deep forehead wrinkles or frown lines that do not respond adequately to BOTOX
- Are in good general health and do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations for surgical outcomes2
A thorough consultation with Dr. Hilinski will determine whether a brow lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or a combination of both is the most appropriate approach for your concerns.
Preparing for Brow Lift Surgery
Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth procedure and a comfortable recovery. Once your consultation is complete and a surgical date is confirmed, Dr. Hilinski’s team will provide detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your specific plan. General guidelines include the following.
Medications & Supplements
You will be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements (such as fish oil, vitamin E, and St. John’s Wort) for at least two weeks before surgery, as these can increase bleeding risk. Disclose all medications and supplements during your consultation so Dr. Hilinski’s team can review them with you.
Smoking
If you smoke, you will need to stop at least six weeks before your procedure. Smoking significantly impairs circulation and wound healing and increases the risk of complications.
Eating & Drinking
Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight the night before surgery. Essential medications may be taken with a small sip of water only.
Hair & Clothing
Wash your hair the evening before or the morning of surgery. Do not apply any styling products, sprays, or dry shampoo. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that fastens in the front or back — nothing that needs to be pulled over your head.
Arranging Support
You will need a trusted adult to drive you home following surgery and to stay with you for the first night. Plan to take at least one week away from work and social commitments.
Setting Up Your Recovery Space
Before your surgery date, prepare a comfortable resting area at home with your head elevated (a wedge pillow works well), cold gel packs in the freezer, any prescribed medications filled, and easy-to-eat foods on hand that require minimal chewing.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Brow lift surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at the Hilinski Ambulatory Surgery Center, an AAAASF-accredited private surgical facility in San Diego. You will not need to stay overnight.
When you arrive, you will be greeted by Dr. Hilinski’s surgical team, reviewed for any last questions, and prepared for the procedure. Dr. Hilinski uses deep sedation or general anesthesia for patient comfort, so you will not feel pain during the surgery.
Once anesthesia is administered, Dr. Hilinski will make incisions according to the technique selected during your consultation – within or at the hairline, or in the temporal scalp, depending on your anatomy and goals. He will then lift and reposition the underlying forehead tissue, smooth or address targeted muscle activity contributing to frown lines, and close the incisions with sutures or staples. The procedure typically takes two to three hours.
When the procedure is complete, your incisions will be dressed and you will be moved to a recovery area where the nursing team will monitor you as the anesthesia wears off. Most patients are ready to go home within one to two hours of surgery. You will leave with post-operative care instructions, any prescribed medications, and a follow-up appointment already scheduled.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1 to 3
Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are most pronounced in the first 72 hours. Keep your head elevated (including while sleeping) and apply cold compresses to the sides of the face (not directly on incisions) to minimize swelling. Rest is important during this period.
Days 5 to 7
Sutures or staples are typically removed at your follow-up appointment. Most patients feel comfortable being seen in public with makeup by the end of the first week.
Weeks 1 to 2
Return to sedentary work and light daily activities. Driving may resume once you are off prescription pain medication and have full range of motion. Avoid excessive facial movement and sun exposure.
Weeks 2 to 4
Gradual return to light exercise. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and bending at the waist should continue to be avoided until cleared by Dr. Hilinski.
Months 3 to 6
Final results become fully visible as residual swelling resolves and the tissues settle into their new position. Any temporary scalp numbness or tingling, which is common, typically resolves during this period as well.
Risks and Considerations
Patient safety is the foundation of every procedure performed at our San Diego practice. As with any surgery, a brow lift carries potential risks, all of which Dr. Hilinski reviews in detail during your consultation so you can make a fully informed decision. Possible risks include:
- Temporary or prolonged scalp numbness
- Asymmetry in brow position
- Visible scarring (minimized with proper technique and incision placement)
- Hair thinning near incision sites
- Infection or bleeding (rare)
- Anesthesia-related complications
Choosing a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with specialized fellowship training significantly reduces the risk of complications and revision surgery.
Combining a Brow Lift with Other Procedures
Many San Diego patients choose to combine a brow lift with complementary procedures for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Common combinations include:
- Upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty): Addresses excess upper eyelid skin that may remain after brow elevation. Dr. Hilinski frequently performs these procedures together for a cohesive, harmonious result.
- Facelift or neck lift: For patients with mid-face or lower face aging in addition to brow descent.
- BOTOX®: Used to maintain results between surgical procedures or to address residual dynamic lines in the forehead and glabellar region. Non-surgical procedures at our practice are performed by Jordan Olivera, R.N.
- Dermal fillers: Can complement surgical results by restoring volume to the temples or upper face. Administered by Jordan Olivera, R.N.
Brow Lift Before and After
Seeing is believing. The following before and after photos showcase real brow lift patients of Dr. Hilinski, illustrating the range of techniques he performs and the refined, balanced results his patients achieve.
What Patients Are Saying
Why Dr. John Hilinski
Dr. Hilinski has dedicated more than 30 years exclusively to the face and neck. His training spans Harvard Medical School, a Head and Neck Surgery residency at UCSD, fellowship training under Dr. Dean M. Toriumi at the University of Illinois, and a National Institutes of Health post-doctoral research fellowship. His full credentials are listed below.
His private, accredited ambulatory surgery center in San Diego allows patients to receive surgical care in a comfortable, personalized environment with the highest standards of safety.
He has been recognized as a 2024 Top Patient-Rated San Diego Facial Plastic Surgeon and holds active memberships in leading professional organizations in facial plastic surgery.
Patients throughout San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Carmel Valley, and surrounding communities trust Dr. Hilinski for brow lift surgery because of his meticulous technique, his commitment to refined, balanced outcomes, and his attentive, patient-centered approach to care.
Credentials at a Glance
- M.D., Harvard Medical School
- Residency in Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Diego (UCSD)
- Fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Illinois (under Dr. Dean M. Toriumi)
- Double Board Certified: American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) and American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (ABOHNS)
- National Institutes of Health Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship
- 2024 Top Patient-Rated San Diego Facial Plastic Surgeon
Frequently Asked Questions
A brow lift elevates the position of the eyebrows and smooths the forehead, while eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. These are distinct procedures that address different anatomical structures. Many patients benefit from both, and Dr. Hilinski will assess which approach, or combination, is right for you during your consultation.
Most patients enjoy results for 10 to 15 years, though individual longevity depends on factors such as skin quality, genetics, and sun exposure. Maintenance with BOTOX can help extend results over time.
Incisions are carefully placed within or at the hairline to minimize visible scarring. With the endoscopic and trichophytic techniques, scars are typically very fine and well-concealed. Dr. Hilinski will discuss incision placement in detail during your consultation based on your hairline and anatomy.
Discomfort following a brow lift is generally mild to moderate and well-managed with prescribed pain medication. Most patients describe a sensation of tightness or pressure rather than sharp pain. Discomfort typically subsides significantly within the first week.
The cost of brow lift surgery varies depending on the technique selected, anesthesia, and facility fees. During your consultation, Dr. Hilinski will evaluate your anatomy and goals and provide a personalized quote based on your individual treatment plan. Financing options are available.
Contact Us
If you are considering a brow lift in San Diego, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. John Hilinski. During your visit, Dr. Hilinski will evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the technique best suited to your needs.
Sources
1 Mayo Clinic. Brow Lift. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/brow-lift/about/pac-20393257. Accessed March 13, 2026.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for a brow lift? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/brow-lift/candidates. Accessed March 13, 2026.