Forehead wrinkles are one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of ageing. Deep lines across the forehead and between the eyebrows can make you look older, more tired, or even angry—regardless of how you actually feel. For those struggling with prominent forehead creases, a brow lift may offer a more lasting solution. But is it the best option for smoothing out those stubborn lines?
This guide breaks down what a brow lift can—and can’t—do for deep forehead wrinkles. We’ll explore how it compares to other treatments like laser resurfacing and injectable fillers, what recovery involves, and what results you can expect.
Centre for Surgery is a leading London clinic specialising in facial rejuvenation surgery. With expert surgeons and state-of-the-art technology, we’re committed to helping you achieve natural, youthful results.
What Causes Deep Forehead Wrinkles?
Forehead wrinkles usually appear due to a combination of ageing, repeated facial movements, and skin damage. Over time, your skin loses collagen and elasticity. As a result, it struggles to bounce back after muscle movement. Every time you raise your eyebrows or frown, you create lines. Eventually, these lines become permanent.
Other factors can speed up the process—sun exposure, stress, genetics, and smoking all play a role. Once the lines have set in deeply, no amount of moisturiser or facial massage will get rid of them. That’s when more advanced options come into play.
What Exactly Is a Brow Lift?
A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, is a surgical procedure that raises the brow line and tightens the forehead skin. It reduces sagging, smooths out horizontal lines across the forehead, and lifts the skin above the eyes. The result is a fresher, more open, and youthful appearance.
There are different types of brow lift procedures. Your surgeon may recommend a traditional (coronal) brow lift, an endoscopic brow lift, or a temporal (lateral) lift, depending on your specific concerns. Each method targets the muscles and tissues that cause wrinkles and sagging, but with varying techniques and incisions.
Can a Brow Lift Remove Deep Forehead Wrinkles?
Yes, a brow lift can significantly reduce or even remove deep forehead wrinkles. By surgically lifting the brow and tightening the skin and underlying muscles, the surgeon smooths out the surface of the forehead. This can dramatically improve the appearance of lines that have become etched into the skin.
However, the extent of wrinkle removal depends on factors like your skin’s condition, age, and how deep the wrinkles are. In many cases, a brow lift alone is enough to take years off your appearance. But for some, combining a brow lift with other treatments may offer better results.
Brow Lift vs. Other Treatments: What’s the Difference?
If you’re not ready for surgery, or if you want to explore your options, there are non-surgical treatments that can help soften forehead wrinkles. But it’s important to understand how they compare in terms of results and longevity.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is one of the most effective non-surgical options for improving skin texture and fine to moderate lines. It works by removing damaged skin layers and stimulating collagen production. Over time, this can lead to firmer, smoother skin. However, it typically won’t eliminate very deep lines entirely.
Injectable Fillers
Fillers can also improve the appearance of forehead wrinkles. These fillers work by adding volume beneath the skin, lifting and smoothing out the surface. They’re fast, require no downtime, and the results are instant. But they don’t last forever. Most fillers need to be redone every 6–12 months, and they’re not ideal for severe wrinkles.
Brow Lift Surgery, on the other hand, is the only solution that physically lifts the forehead tissue and repositions the muscles causing the creasing. While it’s a more involved procedure with a longer recovery, the results are long-lasting—often a decade or more.
What to Expect During a Brow Lift Procedure
Before surgery, you’ll have a detailed consultation to discuss your goals, health, and facial anatomy. Your surgeon will explain the type of brow lift that’s best for you and what the process involves.
The procedure is typically done under general anaesthesia and lasts one to two hours. Small incisions are made either along the hairline, in the scalp, or at the temples, depending on the method used. The surgeon then adjusts the underlying muscles and removes or repositions tissue to achieve a smoother look. The skin is lifted and any excess is trimmed away before the incisions are closed.
You’ll go home the same day in most cases. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal for the first week or two. Most people return to work within 10 to 14 days, and the full results become visible over the next several weeks.
Are the Results Permanent?
Brow lift results are long-lasting, but not technically permanent. Your face will continue to age, but the improvements from surgery can last 10 years or more. The forehead will always look younger and firmer than if you’d never had the procedure at all.
Maintaining healthy habits—like wearing sunscreen, not smoking, and following a good skincare routine—can help prolong your results. Some patients choose to combine a brow lift with future skin treatments or minor enhancements to keep their look fresh.
Is a Brow Lift Right for You?
If deep forehead lines bother you and non-surgical treatments haven’t worked—or don’t last long enough—a brow lift may be the best option. Ideal candidates are generally in good health, have realistic expectations, and are seeking long-term improvements in their appearance.
It’s also essential to understand the recovery process and be comfortable with the idea of surgery. If that’s not the case, alternatives like resurfacing or fillers might be better suited to your needs in the short term.
A consultation with an experienced facial surgeon will help you weigh up the benefits and risks and decide what approach is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I look surprised after a brow lift?
Not if the procedure is done correctly. A well-performed brow lift restores a natural-looking brow position. It doesn’t leave you looking startled or “overdone.” Choosing a skilled surgeon is key to getting subtle, flattering results.
Can I combine a brow lift with other procedures?
Yes. Many patients choose to combine it with eyelid surgery, a facelift, or skin treatments to enhance overall facial rejuvenation. Your surgeon can customise a treatment plan based on your goals.
How long does it take to recover?
Most swelling and bruising go down within two weeks. You can usually return to normal activities after 10 to 14 days. Full healing and final results take a few months.
Are there visible scars after a brow lift?
Incisions are placed strategically along the hairline or scalp to make them as discreet as possible. Once healed, they’re usually very hard to see.
Is the procedure painful?
You won’t feel any pain during the surgery, as it’s done under anaesthesia. Afterwards, discomfort is usually mild and managed with over-the-counter medication.
Why Choose Centre for Surgery?
At Centre for Surgery in London, we specialise in facial rejuvenation that looks natural and refined. Our surgeons use advanced techniques that minimise scarring, speed up recovery, and give long-lasting results. Every procedure is tailored to you—we never take a one-size-fits-all approach.
From the first consultation through to post-op care, our team is focused on your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. We take the time to understand your concerns and design a plan that suits your features and goals.
When it comes to treating deep forehead wrinkles, a brow lift isn’t just about tightening skin—it’s about restoring your expression and confidence. At Centre for Surgery, we’re here to help you achieve just that.
