Forehead/Brow Lift

A forehead lift, also sometimes referred to as a brow lift, is designed to elevate the brow. Using this strategy, our Specialist Plastic Surgeon – Dr Vlad Milovic – offers state-of-the-art techniques to perform the forehead lift procedure.

• Forehead/Brow Lift Risks
• Forehead/Brow Lift Candidates
• Forehead/Brow Lift Procedure
• Forehead/Brow Lift Recovery
• Forehead/Brow Lift FAQs
• Risk Transparency & Informed Consent

Risks of Surgery

All surgical procedures carry risks and the potential for complications. While Dr. Milovic is extensively trained and experienced with a comprehensive array of plastic surgery procedures and utilises advanced techniques to help mitigate those risks, patients considering treatment should always be fully aware of them beforehand. Dr. Milovic will go over all risks and potential complications associated with the procedure during the initial consultation, and we are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Risks of this procedure include, but are not limited to:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Excessive bleeding
• Pain/discomfort
• Nerve damage
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Complications relating to anaesthesia
• Seroma (a growth/lump near the surgery site that may become infectious)
• Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
• Death
• Poor wound healing
• Potential for an additional surgery
• Blood clots
• An elevated hairline
• Dry/irritated eyes
• Facial asymmetry
• Injury to the facial nerves, which may be accompanied by weakness
• Hair loss at or near the incision sites
• Numbness or other skin sensation changes in the treatment area
• Thrombosis that may lead to a pulmonary embolism
• Loss of skin

There are always risks with any surgery and Dr Milovic will discuss your expectations and goals along with any possible risks prior to the surgery being performed.

Am I a Candidate for a Forehead/Brow Lift?

As surgery is a very personal decision, you should have realistic goals and expectations before undergoing the procedure. Dr Milovic will examine your face during your initial consultation and discuss how a forehead/brow lift can potentially meet your goals and expectations. If you are in good health and a non-smoker (or you are prepared to give up smoking for at least six weeks prior to and after surgery) you may be a suitable candidate for surgery.

What Can I Expect During the Forehead/Brow Lift Procedure?

Dr Milovic offers two brow lift methods:

• The Classic Brow Lift – also called the “coronal lift” or “open brow lift” – is performed with one continuous incision, which starts at ear level and continues around the hairline. Through this access, Dr. Milovic can remove excess skin, adjust underlying muscles, and reposition tissues.
• The Endoscopic Brow Lift involves the use of an instrument called an endoscope. After making significantly smaller incisions than are used in a traditional brow lift, Dr Milovic can use this equipment to meticulously alter the underlying forehead structures. From there, he can apply sutures to secure the tissue.

What Is Recovery From a Forehead/Brow Lift Like?

The recovery period for forehead/brow lift surgery will vary from patient to patient; additionally, the endoscopic method often results in a less lengthy recovery time. That said, you generally will not be able to work for at least one to two weeks post-surgery. As soon as the bandages have been removed, which is normally within one to two days, you can shower and wash your hair. Light exercise may be resumed within four to five weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for six to eight weeks. You will be given post-surgery instructions to follow and if you have any questions, please speak to Dr Milovic.

Forehead/Brow Lift Surgery FAQs

Will I need anaesthesia?

Forehead/brow lift surgery is typically done under general anaesthesia. Dr Milovic will engage the services of a qualified anaesthetist, who is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA), to perform your sedation or general anaesthesia. For your safety, please make sure you provide an up-to-date list of your allergies and medications before the surgery.

Will I have scarring?

As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr Milovic will do all he can to potentially minimise scarring. With this in mind, scarring is liable to occur during brow lift surgery; however, the endoscopic method typically involves shorter incisions than the traditional, which commonly yields less scarring.

Where will the surgery take place?

Depending upon your general health and the extent of the procedure, forehead/brow lift surgery is typically performed as a day procedure. Dr Milovic will only perform your forehead/brow lift surgery in an accredited operating facility. The procedure can take between one to three hours to complete, depending on which incision option is used.

Risk Transparency & Informed Consent

When considering brow lift surgery, it is essential to have access to accurate and comprehensive information to make an informed decision. In line with AHPRA’s 2025 guidelines, we are committed to helping patients understand the potential risks, benefits, costs, available alternatives, and expected outcomes associated with this procedure.

We encourage you to review the educational materials provided on our website and to bring any questions or concerns to your consultation. Our team will guide you through the consent process in detail and can also advise you on how to raise any concerns with AHPRA or another appropriate health authority if necessary.

Learn More About Dr Milovic’s Facial Rejuvenation Options

Our sister website focuses exclusively on Dr Milovic’s facial and nasal enhancement procedures. Visit this comprehensive resource for more information on brow lift surgery, facelift surgery, and a plethora of additional treatments designed to transform your facial aesthetic.

Medical Resources*

Cleveland Clinic