Brow Lift
Brow Lift in Bellevue, WA | Surgical & Non-Surgical Forehead Lift Options
Considering a brow (forehead) lift in Bellevue, WA? Our board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon offers surgical and non-surgical options—endoscopic, hairline, and Botox—to lift droopy brows, smooth forehead lines, and open the eyes with natural-looking results. We operate in an accredited facility and have 5-star reviews from Seattle Eastside patients. Explore candidacy, cost, and recovery, then see real before-and-after photos. Book a consultation to get a custom plan that fits your goals, timeline, and budget.
Ready to learn more about your options?
What Is a Brow Lift (Forehead Lift)?
A brow lift is a procedure that raises drooping eyebrows and smooths forehead wrinkles. It targets the upper third of your face to create a more alert, youthful look.
Benefits: Lift Droopy Brows, Smooth Forehead Lines, Open the Eyes
Lifts droopy brows and opens the eyes
Softens horizontal forehead lines and frown lines
Can improve visual field if brows obstruct vision
Customizable to your hairline and gender aesthetics
How It Compares to Non-Surgical Brow Elevation
Surgical lifts provide longer-lasting results (typically 5-10 years), while non-surgical options like Botox or PDO threads offer temporary improvement (3-18 months). Your choice depends on your goals, budget, and desired downtime.
Brow Lift Options in Bellevue: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical
We offer both surgical and non-surgical approaches tailored to your needs and anatomy.
Who's a Candidate? Brow Ptosis Grades, Hairlines, and Aesthetics
The best candidates have realistic expectations and good overall health. Let's explore specific factors that determine candidacy.
Brows at/below the orbital rim or lateral hooding
Stable health, non-smoker (or willing to pause)
Realistic goals and tolerance for downtime
Appropriate hairline and skin quality for chosen technique
Brow Ptosis Grades and Signs of Aging
Brow ptosis (drooping) varies from mild to severe. You might be a candidate if your brows sit at or below your brow bone, creating a tired or sad expression.
Male vs. Female Brow Aesthetics (Natural, Not "Surprised")
Male vs female brow aesthetics differ significantly. Women typically benefit from a gentle arch, while men need a flatter, more horizontal brow position to maintain masculine features.
High vs. Low Hairline: Endoscopic vs. Trichophytic Approaches
Hairline considerations guide technique selection. High hairlines may benefit from a trichophytic brow lift that actually lowers the hairline, while low hairlines work well with an endoscopic brow lift.
Medical History and Skin Quality (Collagen/Elastin)
Your skin's collagen and elastin levels affect results. Younger patients with good skin elasticity often see better, longer-lasting outcomes.
Surgical Brow Lift Techniques Explained
Several surgical approaches exist, each with unique benefits. Our surgeon has extensive case volume with both endoscopic and hairline techniques.
Endoscopic Brow Lift in Bellevue (Small Incisions, Faster Recovery)
The endoscopic brow lift uses small incisions hidden in the hairline with a tiny camera for guidance. It's minimally invasive with faster recovery. Results typically last 5-7 years.
Hairline/Trichophytic Brow Lift (Lowering a High Forehead)
The hairline brow lift places incisions at the hairline edge, ideal for patients with high foreheads. This technique often provides longevity of 8-10+ years.
Coronal vs. Temporal/Lateral Brow Lifts: Indications & Scars
A coronal brow lift involves an ear-to-ear incision behind the hairline, providing dramatic lifting for severe drooping with 8-10+ year results. A temporal brow lift or lateral brow lift focuses on the outer brow area through smaller incisions near the temples, targeting outer brow/"tired" corners rather than central forehead lines. Lateral lifts are good for early aging or when avoiding hairline change, typically lasting 3-5 years.
Direct Brow Lift and Internal Browpexy (Often with Blepharoplasty)
The direct brow lift removes skin directly above the eyebrows. It's quick but leaves more visible scars. An internal browpexy or browpexy secures the brow through an eyelid incision, often combined with blepharoplasty.
Fixation Methods: Endotine Devices vs. Sutures
Endotine fixation devices or traditional sutures secure the lifted tissue. Endotine provides early stability and dissolves in 6-12 months at slightly higher cost, while sutures offer lower cost but rely on tissue healing. Early palpability with Endotine typically resolves as the device dissolves.
Non-Surgical Brow Lift: Botox, Threads, Fillers, and Devices
Not ready for surgery? These alternatives provide temporary but effective results.
Botox (Botulinum Toxin A) for Subtle Elevation
Botulinum toxin type A relaxes muscles that pull brows down, creating a subtle lift lasting 3-4 months.
PDO Threads (NovaThreads): What to Expect
Novathread treatment uses dissolvable sutures to lift and tighten skin for 6-12 months. Results vary in durability and may cause dimpling or irregularity. Best for mild lift or as a bridge to surgery.
Ultherapy, Thermage, RF Microneedling, and AccuTite
Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound to stimulate collagen production. Thermage delivers radiofrequency energy to tighten existing collagen. RF microneedling combines tiny needles with radiofrequency for skin tightening. These energy devices typically provide 6-12 months of improvement with maintenance needed. RFAL (radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis) with AccuTite provides targeted skin tightening through minimal incisions, best for focal skin laxity and can be combined with blepharoplasty, though not suitable for significant brow ptosis.
Brow Lift vs. Eylid Surgery (Blepharoplasty/Ptosis Repair)
When to Choose a Brow Lift
Choose a brow lift when drooping brows are the main cause of upper eyelid hooding.
When Blepharoplasty or Ptosis Repair Is Recommended
Ptosis repair addresses drooping eyelids rather than brows. Sometimes both procedures are needed.
When to Combine Procedures + Medical Necessity & Visual Fields
Combining procedures addresses multiple aging concerns in one surgery, reducing overall recovery time. Visual field testing can document vision obstruction for medical necessity (insurance coverage). Insurers often require taped/untaped visual fields and standardized photos, with functional improvement documented. Some require demonstration that manual brow elevation improves field deficit.
Consultation & Custom Treatment Planning
Your consultation is the foundation for achieving natural, beautiful results.
Facial Anatomy Assessment
We evaluate your unique facial anatomy to determine the best approach for your features.
Candidacy and Goals
We'll discuss your aesthetic goals and determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure.
Choosing the Right Technique
Based on your anatomy and goals, we'll recommend the most appropriate surgical or non-surgical approach. Male hairlines require special consideration—we emphasize avoiding hairline elevation and prefer endoscopic or limited temporal approaches to preserve masculine features.
Digital Imaging and Standardized Photography
Before-and-after photos help visualize potential results and track your progress. View our gallery to see brow lift results filtered by gender and hairline type.
Medication Review and Pre-Op Instructions
We'll review your medications and provide detailed preparation instructions for optimal results.
Insurance Documentation (If Visual Obstruction Applies)
If brow drooping affects your vision, we can help document medical necessity for insurance purposes.
Procedure Day: What to Expect
Check-in, marking, and anesthesia
Incision placement and lift with fixation
Careful closure and recovery room monitoring
Same-day discharge with written aftercare
Anesthesia Options (Local Anesthesia, IV Sedation, General)
Depending on your procedure, you'll receive local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia for comfort.
Incision Placement and Lifting
Incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring while achieving optimal lift.
Fixation Devices (Endotine/Sutures) and Stability
We secure the lifted tissue using appropriate fixation methods for long-lasting results.
Closure and Scarring Considerations
Careful closure techniques minimize scarring and promote healing.
Outpatient Timeline and Going Home the Same Day
Most brow lifts are outpatient surgery procedures, allowing you to recover at home.
Take the first step toward a refreshed appearance
Recovery & Aftercare
Typical Downtime and Milestones
Most patients need 7-10 days off work. Swelling peaks at 48 hours then gradually improves.
Days 1-2: Peak swelling; cold compresses, head elevation
Days 3-7: Bruising fades; light activity ok
1-2 weeks: Return to work; makeup/contacts when cleared
3-4 weeks: Resume full exercise
6-12 weeks: Scar maturation; consider laser if needed
Swelling, Bruising, and Comfort Tips
Cold compresses and head elevation help minimize swelling and bruising during recovery.
Return to Work and Exercise
Light activities resume after one week, with full exercise returning at 3-4 weeks.
Scar Care (Silicone Gel, SPF, Laser Options)
Scar care (silicone gel, SPF, laser resurfacing) helps incisions heal optimally. Apply silicone for 2-3 months once incisions are closed, use SPF 30+ daily, and perform scar massage after clearance. Consider laser treatment at 6-12 weeks if redness persists.
Sleeping Position and Activity Restrictions
Sleep with your head elevated for two weeks to reduce swelling.
When to Resume Makeup, Contacts, and Screens
Contacts can be worn after 1-2 weeks if no irritation occurs. Eye makeup is safe after 7-10 days once incisions are closed. Limit screen time for the first 48 hours to reduce dry eye symptoms.
Risks, Safety, and Possible Complications
Asymmetry
Complications (asymmetry, numbness) are rare but possible. Minor asymmetry can often be corrected.
Temporary or Persistent Numbness
Some numbness is normal and usually resolves within weeks to months.
Infection, Bleeding, Scarring
Following post-operative instructions minimizes these risks significantly.
Hairline Changes or Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Temporary alopecia (hair loss) near incisions typically resolves within months.
Frontal Branch Nerve Injury or Temporary Brow Weakness
Injury to the frontal branch of the facial nerve is rare with experienced surgeons.
Dry Eye and Lagophthalmos
Temporary difficulty closing eyes completely may occur but usually resolves quickly.
Overcorrection and Need for Revision
Revision surgery is rarely needed when performed by experienced providers.
Expected Results & Longevity
How Long Results Last by Technique
Surgical lifts last 5-10 years, while non-surgical options need regular maintenance. Specifically: endoscopic lifts last 5-7 years; coronal/trichophytic often 8-10+ years; lateral lifts 3-5 years; threads 6-12 months; Botox 3-4 months; energy devices 6-12 months with maintenance needed.
Maintenance with Botox and Skin Care
Regular Botox treatments and good skincare extend your results.
Collagen and Elastin Remodeling Timeline
Final results appear as collagen remodels over 3-6 months.
Cost, Financing, and Insurance in Bellevue, WA
Typical Price Range and What's Included
Surgical brow lifts in Bellevue, WA typically range from $4,000-$8,000.
What Your Quote Includes
Surgeon, facility, and anesthesia fees
Standard pre-op testing and post-op visits
Fixation devices (e.g., Endotine) if used
Detailed aftercare instructions; prescriptions not included
Financing with CareCredit and Cherry
Financing (CareCredit, Cherry) makes procedures more affordable with monthly payment plans.
When Insurance May Apply (Documented Visual Obstruction)
Insurance may cover procedures when vision obstruction is documented through testing.
Why Choose Our Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon on the Seattle Eastside
Board Certification (ABFPRS/ASOPRS) and Accredited Facility (AAAASF/AAAHC)
Our oculofacial plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon has specialized training in delicate eye-area procedures with extensive case volume in both endoscopic and hairline techniques.
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery Expertise
Advanced training ensures natural results that preserve your unique expressions.
Compliance with Washington State Regulations
We follow all cosmetic surgery regulations (Washington State) including DOH office-based surgery rules with proper sedation permits, emergency protocols, and team credentials. Our facility maintains AAAASF/AAAHC accreditation standards.
Accredited On-Site Operating Room and Anesthesia Team
Our facility meets the highest safety standards for surgical procedures.
Before-and-After Gallery and 5-Star Reviews
View real patient results and read testimonials from satisfied patients. Access our gallery to see brow lift before-and-after photos filtered by gender and hairline type.
Convenient Eastside Location and Parking
Our Seattle Eastside location offers easy access and ample parking.
How to Choose the Best Brow Lift Surgeon in Bellevue
Board Certification (ABFPRS/ASOPRS) and Case Volume
Look for board certification and extensive experience with brow procedures.
Facility Accreditation and Safety Standards
Ensure the surgical facility is properly accredited for your safety.
Experience with Male/Female and Diverse Hairlines
Choose a surgeon experienced with diverse facial anatomies and aesthetic goals.
Transparent Pricing, Informed Consent, and Follow-Up Care
Your provider should offer clear pricing and comprehensive follow-up care.
FAQs
How much does a brow lift cost in Bellevue, WA?
Surgical brow lifts typically range from $4,000-$8,000, while non-surgical options start around $500-$2,000 depending on the treatment.
What is the recovery time after a brow lift procedure?
Most patients return to work after 7-10 days and resume full activities within 3-4 weeks.
Who is an ideal candidate for a brow lift?
Good candidates have drooping brows, forehead wrinkles, good health, and realistic expectations about results.
What can I expect during my brow lift consultation?
We'll assess your facial anatomy, discuss goals, review techniques, and create a personalized treatment plan.
What are the potential risks and complications of a brow lift?
Risks include temporary numbness, asymmetry, scarring, and rare nerve injury, all minimized with experienced surgeons.
How long do brow lift results typically last?
Surgical results last 5-10 years, while non-surgical options need touch-ups every 3-18 months.
What is the difference between a brow lift and eyelid surgery?
Brow lifts address forehead and eyebrow position, while eyelid surgery removes excess eyelid skin and fat.
What types of brow lift techniques are available?
Options include endoscopic, coronal, temporal, direct, and trichophytic approaches, plus non-surgical alternatives.
Are there non-surgical alternatives to a brow lift?
Yes, including Botox, PDO threads, fillers, Ultherapy, Thermage, and RF microneedling.
How do I choose a qualified brow lift provider in Bellevue?
Look for board certification, facility accreditation, experience, and transparent communication.
Will insurance cover a brow lift if sagging brows block my vision?
Insurance may cover the procedure if visual field testing documents significant vision obstruction.
Which lasts longer: brow lift vs. Botox vs. thread lift?
Surgical lifts last 5-10 years, thread lifts 6-12 months, and Botox 3-4 months.
What is the best brow lift for a high hairline or male hairline?
Trichophytic or hairline approaches work well for high hairlines, while endoscopic techniques suit most male patients.
Will I look "surprised" after a brow lift? How do you ensure natural results?
A skilled surgeon avoids overcorrection by respecting your natural anatomy and gender-specific aesthetics, creating a refreshed rather than "surprised" appearance.
Endoscopic vs. hairline (trichophytic) brow lift: which lasts longer and how visible are the scars?
Hairline lifts typically last longer (8-10+ years vs. 5-7 years for endoscopic). Endoscopic scars are hidden in hair; hairline scars are at the hairline edge but fade well with proper care.
How do Botox and PDO thread lifts around the brows compare to Ultherapy/Thermage for lift and longevity?
Botox provides subtle lift for 3-4 months; PDO threads offer more lift for 6-12 months; Ultherapy/Thermage provide mild tightening for 6-12 months. Botox and threads show quicker results, while energy devices build gradually.
Schedule Your Consultation
Ready to explore your brow lift options? Our experienced team in Bellevue, WA, is here to help you achieve a naturally refreshed, youthful appearance. We'll create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals, anatomy, and lifestyle.
Take the next step toward looking as young as you feel