• Direct Brow Lift

    Mr Juling Ong combines meticulous attention to detail with his expertise as a reconstructive surgeon to produce optimal facial rejuvenation results.

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Brow Lifting Technique

The position and contour of the eyebrows play a central role in facial harmony and expression. With age, the brow can begin to droop, leading to a tired, heavy, or stern appearance that does not reflect how you truly feel.

A Direct Brow Lift is a surgical procedure designed to elevate and reshape the brow by removing a small strip of skin and tissue just above the eyebrows and into the temple. This lifts the brows into a more youthful and balanced position, opening the upper face and softening the expression.

Surgery Time

1 – 1.5 hours

Anaesthetic

Local or general

Hospital Stay

Outpatient or day case

Time Off Work

7 – 10 days

Full Recovery

2 – 4 weeks

Unlike the endoscopic technique, the direct brow lift achieves its effect with incisions placed directly above the brow, making it a powerful option for patients with marked brow descent or asymmetry and particularly useful for patients who would benefit from brow reshaping.

Mr Juling Ong will advise on whether this approach is best suited to your individual features and goals.

Direct vs Endoscopic Brow Lift

Direct Brow LiftEndoscopic Brow Lift
Surgical approachSmall strip of skin removed just above the eyebrow and extending slightly into templeSeveral small incisions hidden in the scalp, using a camera (endoscope)
Best for

Reshaping the brow, correcting asymmetry, significant drooping, heavy brows, high hairlines or excessive wrinkling above brow
Moderate brow descent, patients wanting hidden scars and minimally invasive surgery
Anaesthetic
Can be performed under local or general anaesthetic
Usually performed under general anaesthetic
Scarring
Scar just above the brow and into the temple – will fades over time but may remain slightly visible
Incisions hidden in the scalp – usually no visible scars on forehead
Recovery
7–10 days off work, 2–4 weeks full recovery7–10 days off work, 2–4 weeks full recovery
Longevity of results
Long-lasting, especially effective for severe droop
Long-lasting, but less powerful compared to direct lift
Pros
 – Precise lift, especially for asymmetry, shape or marked droop
– Can be done under local anaesthetic
– Immediate visible effect		– Minimally invasive
Cons– Visible scar above brow (though often well-concealed in crease)
– Less suited to patients concerned about scarring
– Hidden scars

Frequently Asked Questions

A direct brow lift is a surgical procedure that elevates a drooping (ptotic) eyebrow by removing a precise ellipse of skin and tissue directly above or just within the eyebrow. The incision is placed carefully to be concealed within the brow hairs. It is a reliable technique that allows precise control over the degree and shape of brow elevation.

A direct brow lift uses an incision directly above or within the brow itself, making it best suited to patients with significant brow ptosis or a strong brow hair pattern that conceals the scar. An endoscopic brow lift uses small hidden incisions within the scalp and is better suited to patients with mild to moderate brow drooping who do not want a visible scar near the brow. Mr Juling Ong will advise on the most appropriate technique for your anatomy.

This technique is particularly well-suited to men, who typically have heavier brow hair that conceals the scar well. It is also an excellent option for patients with significant asymmetric brow ptosis (for example, following facial nerve weakness) and for those requiring precise brow shaping and elevation. In addition, a direct brow lift may be the better choice for older patients, in whom skin laxity and deeper forehead lines help camouflage the incision, and for patients who tattoo their brows, as the tattooed line can conceal the scar and provide a clear landmark for incision placement. It is less commonly chosen by younger women, who often have less brow ptosis and for whom the scar, even when faint, may be of greater concern.

As with all surgical procedures, there are risks. These may include bleeding, infection, temporary numbness, swelling, or bruising. Scarring is an inherent part of this surgery, and in some cases, scars may remain visible. Rarely, there may be asymmetry or recurrence of brow droop. Mr Juling Ong will discuss all potential risks with you in detail before you decide to proceed.

A direct brow lift is often performed under local anaesthesia or as an additional procedure under general anaesthetic or sedation as a day case. Recovery is relatively straightforward: bruising and swelling settle over one to two weeks. Sutures are typically removed at one week. Patients can usually return to work within ten to fourteen days.

The scar is placed within or immediately above the brow hair and fades significantly over six to twelve months. In patients with a dense brow, it is typically well concealed. Mr Juling Ong will carefully discuss scar placement and the expected appearance with you before surgery.

Yes. It is commonly combined with blepharoplasty (upper eyelid surgery) and a facelift to address the full range of facial ageing changes in a single procedure. The combination of brow lift and upper blepharoplasty is particularly effective when both brow ptosis and excess upper eyelid skin are present. Adjunct non-surgical treatments such as anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers can provide comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

The results are immediate, although swelling and bruising in the first week may initially obscure the final appearance. Within 7–10 days, most patients begin to see a noticeable improvement, with results continuing to refine over the following weeks as healing progresses.

The results of a direct brow lift are long-lasting, generally lasting for longer than those from an endoscopic brow lift. However, the natural ageing process will continue, and factors such as skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle (e.g. smoking, sun exposure) may influence how long the results endure. Good skincare and healthy living will help maintain the benefits of surgery.

During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain the procedure in full, discuss all potential risks, and advise you on whether the direct brow lift is the right option for your needs.

Please call us on‬ 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.

Member of American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Member of BAAPS
Member of BAPRAS

020 7927 6528
info@julingong.com
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Member of American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Member of BAAPS
Member of BAPRAS

Craniofacial and Paediatric Plastic Surgeon

020 7927 6528
info@julingong.com
BOOK A CONSULTATION

Private Clinics

Private Hospitals

NHS & Private

Copyright | Mr Juling Ong

Privacy Policy