What Is a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift, How Many Techniques Are There and Who Is It For?

A forehead that is starting to sag, or brows that are slowly dropping lower, are signs many people begin to notice as they get older. A forehead lift and brow lift is a procedure that addresses this directly at the structural level. Unlike botulinum toxin injections, which relax the muscles for a while, or HIFU, which stimulates collagen, a forehead lift and brow lift using an endoscopic technique with Endotine devices repositions the fibrous tissue and the layers under the skin directly, so in many cases the effect lasts longer, depending on each person.

Key points

• A forehead lift and brow lift is surgery that lifts the tissue layers under the skin and the fibrous tissue of a sagging forehead and brows back to a suitable position, which can make the face look fresher and more rested.
• A technique commonly used today is the endoscopic brow lift (a brow lift performed with a thin camera) together with Endotine devices, which the body absorbs within 6 to 12 months.
• Endotine is a medical fixation device made of PCL+PLLA. It holds the brows and forehead in position while new fibrous tissue forms, then is gradually absorbed by the body, so it does not need to be removed with further surgery.
• It may suit people with drooping brows, a sagging forehead, heavy upper eyelids, or a face that looks sad or tired without meaning to. Most are aged 35 to 60.
• It differs from botulinum toxin injections and HIFU because it repositions the fibrous tissue directly, rather than only relaxing the muscles or stimulating collagen for a while.
• Most people go home within 1 to 2 days, and most swelling goes down within 7 to 14 days.
• Results depend on each person. The surgeon assesses your face and plans a suitable technique with you before every procedure.

---

This article covers what the procedure is, commonly used techniques, what Endotine is and how it works, who it suits, whether it hurts, how long recovery takes, aftercare, how it compares with HIFU and botulinum toxin injections, and approximate prices for a brow lift and forehead lift, to help you make an informed decision.

What Is a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift?

A forehead lift and brow lift is a technique that helps address and correct sagging on the face. It lifts the tissue layers under the skin and the fibrous tissue of the forehead to reduce horizontal forehead lines and frown lines between the brows, and to smooth the forehead so it no longer hangs down over the brows. It also lifts brows that have dropped back to a position that suits your facial proportions, which can make the eyes look bigger, the face look fresher and the upper eyelids feel less heavy.

Why Do the Forehead and Brows Sag Earlier Than Expected?

Sagging of the forehead and brows does not happen only because of age. Several factors speed up this process. Understanding the causes helps explain why botulinum toxin injections or HIFU are not enough in some cases.

1. Loss of Collagen and Elastin With Age

From around age 30, the body produces less collagen and elastin each year, so the skin gradually loses its elasticity. Together with gravity constantly pulling the tissue under the skin downwards, this makes the forehead and brows sag over time.

2. Loss of Supporting Fat Under the Forehead Skin

With age, the fat layer under the forehead skin becomes thinner and no longer supports the skin as it did, so the outer skin has less support and sags.

3. Repeated Muscle Use Every Day

Frowning, raising your brows to show emotion or squinting repeatedly every day makes the forehead muscles gradually pull the skin down, forming frown lines (glabellar lines) between the brows and horizontal lines on the forehead.

4. Habits and Surroundings That Speed Up Ageing

UV light from the sun, smoking, not getting enough sleep and ongoing stress all speed up the deterioration of the skin and the layers under it, so the forehead and brows sag earlier than your actual age would suggest.

How Many Forehead Lift and Brow Lift Techniques Are There?

There are several forehead lift and brow lift techniques, and each suits different facial features and degrees of sagging. The surgeon assesses your face in person and then chooses a suitable technique, rather than choosing without real information about your face.

1. Endoscopic Brow Lift (The Main Technique)

This technique is commonly used today. The surgeon makes about 3 to 5 small incisions of no more than 1cm to 2cm, hidden in the hairline, then inserts an endoscope (a thin camera) to see the area in detail on a monitor. The tissue layers under the skin are then released, the fibrous tissue is lifted and Endotine devices hold it in position. The incisions are small and recovery is shorter than with the traditional open technique. It suits most cases. See more about the service at endoscopic brow lift and face lift.

2. Open Forehead Lift

A long incision runs along the hairline, giving the surgeon a very wide view of the structures. It suits cases with a lot of excess skin or a very saggy forehead, but recovery takes longer than with the endoscopic technique and the scar may be more noticeable.

3. Temporal Lift (Temple Lift)

Small incisions are hidden at the temples. It focuses on lifting the tail of the brows and the outer corners of the eyes, and suits people who want to lift the outer brow rather than the whole forehead. It can be combined with other techniques.

4. Direct Brow Lift

Surgery is done only on the area above the brows, with small incisions hidden in the brow line. It suits cases where the brows droop in one area and only that area needs lifting.

Technique	Incision size	Recovery	Suits
Endoscopic + Endotine	Very small, hidden in the hairline	Short recovery	Most cases
Open Forehead Lift	Long, along the hairline	Longer	A lot of excess skin
Temporal Lift	Small, hidden at the temples	Short	Drooping brow tails or outer eye corners
Brow Lifting	Small, hidden in the brows	Short	Brows drooping in one area

What Is Endotine and How Does It Work?

Endotine is a key part of what makes the endoscopic brow lift work effectively. Endotine is a small medical device shaped like a pin or a plate with anchoring points, designed to hold the lifted layers under the skin and the fibrous tissue in their new position while the body forms new fibrous tissue to keep that shape, before the device itself is gradually absorbed by the body.

What Is Endotine Made Of?

Endotine is made of the medical polymers PCL+PLLA (polycaprolactone and poly-L-lactic acid), the same type of material used in surgery around the world. The body absorbs and breaks down this material within 6 to 12 months, so it does not need to be removed with surgery, and no material is left behind in the body.

How Does Endotine Work?

In brief, the surgeon fixes the Endotine device to the forehead bone as the main anchor point, then lifts the sagging fibrous tissue and the layers under the skin to their new position and secures them to the device. During this time, the body forms new fibrous tissue that holds that position firmly. Once the new fibrous tissue is strong enough, the Endotine device is gradually absorbed within 6 to 12 months. See prices and more information at how much an Endotine brow lift costs.

Which Types of Endotine Are Available at S45 Clinic?

S45 Clinic offers several types of Endotine for a lift, depending on the area to be lifted. The surgeon chooses and plans how to use them to suit your face. The types are:

• Endotine Forehead lifts the forehead and brows directly and suits most cases.
• Endotine Transbleph lifts the tail of the brow through an eyelid incision and suits cases that need the brow tail lifted specifically.
• Endotine Midface lifts the central cheek area, helping the midface look fuller and firmer.
• Endotine Ribbon lifts the face vertically and suits cases that need the whole face lifted.

Who Is a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift For?

Not everyone who ‘feels their face looks older’ is suited to a forehead lift and brow lift. An experienced surgeon always assesses your face in person first, but in general, people who benefit from this procedure have the following features.

Features That Suit This Procedure

People who may suit a forehead lift and brow lift usually have brows that have dropped so the upper eyelids look thick or feel heavy, a sagging forehead, horizontal forehead lines or clearly visible frown lines between the brows. It may also suit people whose face looks tired or sad without meaning to, and who have tried botulinum toxin injections or HIFU without getting the result they wanted. People aged 35 to 60 are the most common group, but this is not a fixed rule.

People Who Need a Detailed Consultation With the Surgeon First

If you have a health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure or a blood disorder, or take anticoagulants (blood thinners), tell the surgeon in detail before your assessment. The same applies if you smoke, because you may need to stop before and after surgery for a period the surgeon sets. If you have very specific expectations, talk clearly with the surgeon about how much your facial proportions can change before deciding on the procedure.

What Can a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift Help With?

A forehead lift and brow lift planned by an experienced surgeon can change several aspects of the face at the same time, depending on each person’s starting features. It can help to:

• lift the brows back to a suitable position, which can make the eyes look bigger and the face look fresher
• reduce horizontal forehead lines, so the forehead skin looks smoother
• reduce frown lines between the brows, so the face looks friendlier and less stern
• reduce the heaviness of the upper eyelids in cases where the brows droop over them
• lift the outer corners of the eyes, when combined with a temporal lift
• reshape the brows so they are balanced with the face as a whole

How Does a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift Compare With Botulinum Toxin Injections and HIFU?

All three options claim to ‘lift’, but they actually work differently at a basic level. Understanding the difference helps you choose one that matches your concern.

Botulinum Toxin Injections for a Brow Lift

Botulinum toxin is injected to relax the muscles that pull the brows down, so the brows look slightly raised. The effect lasts about 3 to 6 months. It suits people whose brows droop only a little or who want to try something first, but it does not address the fibrous tissue structure and needs to be repeated regularly.

HIFU for Lifting

HIFU uses ultrasound energy to stimulate new collagen in the deeper layers of the skin, which can make the skin slightly firmer. Results appear gradually over 1 to 3 months. It suits people with mild skin sagging who do not want surgery yet, but for a very saggy forehead or brows that droop a lot, the result is usually not enough.

Comparison	Forehead lift and brow lift	Botulinum toxin injections	HIFU
Method	Surgery to reposition the fibrous tissue	Injections to relax the muscles	Ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen
Results	Clearly visible once the swelling goes down	Visible within 1 to 2 weeks	Gradually visible over 1 to 3 months
How long the effect lasts	Long-lasting (depends on each person)	3 to 6 months	6 to 12 months
Suits	Moderate to severe sagging	Mild sagging, or trying first	Mild sagging
Recovery	7 to 14 days	Usually no recovery time needed	Usually no recovery time needed
Addresses the structure	Repositions the fibrous tissue directly	No	No

Preparing for a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift

Before a forehead lift and brow lift, the surgeon always arranges a health check and consultation first. In general, prepare as follows:

• Stop medicines that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, for the period the surgeon sets.
• Stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery to support wound healing.
• Do not eat or drink for the time the surgeon advises before surgery, if you are having a general anaesthetic.
• Keep your hair clean and do not colour or dye it close to the day of surgery.
• Tell the surgeon about all your medicines and health conditions in detail, including supplements and herbal remedies.
• Arrange for someone to look after you on the day of surgery and for the first 24 to 48 hours of recovery.
• Prepare a comfortable place to rest, with extra pillows so you can sleep with your head raised.

Does a Forehead Lift Hurt and How Long Is Recovery?

Pain and recovery time are things many people worry about before deciding. The information below helps you plan more clearly.

During Surgery

A forehead lift and brow lift may be done under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic, depending on the technique and how complex the case is. During surgery, you are under the care of an experienced surgeon throughout. Surgery usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, or longer depending on the details of each case.

Days 1 to 3, Swelling and Bruising

In the first 1 to 3 days after surgery, you may get swelling, bruising and tightness on the forehead, around the eyes or along the hairline. This is common during recovery. The surgeon gives you medicine as needed and advises you to sleep with your head raised on pillows, use compresses and avoid activities that increase pressure in the face.

Days 7 to 14, Symptoms Gradually Settle

From day 7 to 14, swelling and bruising gradually go down. Many people can return to work or see other people as appropriate for their case, and you may have an appointment to remove stitches if the technique uses them. During this time, avoid knocks to the forehead and look after the wound as the surgeon advises.

Months 1 to 3, Following Your Recovery

In months 1 to 3, the swelling goes down further and the brow shape gradually settles. The surgeon may arrange follow-up appointments to assess the wound, how the layers under the skin are healing and the brow position after your brow lift. Changes during this time depend on each person’s body.

Months 3 to 6, Assessing the Changes

Months 3 to 6 are when the layers under the skin and the fibrous tissue continue to settle. In cases using Endotine, or an Endotine brow lift, the device gradually changes as part of the body’s processes. Keep your follow-up appointments so the surgeon can keep assessing your brow shape and recovery.

Looking After Yourself After a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift

The first 2 to 4 weeks after surgery are very important for the result and for wound healing. Following the aftercare advice supports your recovery and helps you get a suitable result. Aftercare includes:

• Keep your head raised when you sleep to help the swelling go down (for at least the first 2 weeks).
• Use cold compresses on swollen areas for the first 24 to 48 hours, as the surgeon advises.
• Avoid bending your head down or doing strenuous exercise for the first 2 to 4 weeks.
• Keep direct sunlight off the incisions, and use sunscreen once the wounds have healed.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.
• Take all the medicines the surgeon prescribes and do not stop them on your own.
• Attend every follow-up appointment so your recovery can be checked and your care adjusted if needed.

How Long Do the Results Last?

Results from a forehead lift and brow lift using the endoscopic technique with Endotine last longer than non-surgical methods because the fibrous tissue is repositioned directly. Results depend on several factors for each person, including the condition of the skin and underlying layers before surgery, age, genetics and lifestyle (smoking, sun exposure and sleeping habits).

Your face will still change with age, but after surgery your starting point will be in a more suitable position than without surgery. The surgeon assesses your face and gives advice that matches it during your consultation before surgery.

Brow Lift and Forehead Lift Prices

How much Endotine costs and how much an endoscopic brow lift costs are things many people want to know so they can plan. The price depends on several factors, including the technique chosen, the number of zones treated, how complex the case is, the surgeon and the standards of the medical facility.

Example prices at S45 Clinic (please check the latest prices before deciding, as they may change)

Procedure	Promotional price	Standard price
Endoscopic brow lift	THB 55,900	THB 159,000
Endoscopic Brow + Midface Lift	THB 85,900	THB 228,000

Factors That Affect the Price

The price of a forehead lift and brow lift depends on several factors, such as the technique, since an endoscopic lift with Endotine may cost differently from an open lift, and the number of areas treated, whether it is a brow lift alone or combined with a midface lift or a deep plane facelift. It also depends on the anaesthetist team, operating theatre standards and the aftercare system. The clinic should explain all costs clearly from the assessment stage and when giving you a quote.

Be Careful of Unusually Low Prices

A forehead lift and brow lift requires the skill of an experienced surgeon, a standard operating theatre and Endotine devices from a legitimate supplier. An unusually low price may reflect lower standards in some area. Base your decision on the service you receive and the surgeon’s qualifications.

How to Choose a Clinic for a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift

For a procedure with long-term effects on your face, choosing a suitable medical facility matters more than choosing on price. Consider the following before deciding.

Licence and Standards

Check that the medical facility is properly licensed, has a hospital-grade operating theatre, and has an anaesthetist team caring for you if you have a general anaesthetic.

The Surgeon’s Experience and Training

The surgeon should be trained and experienced in facial plastic surgery, have direct experience with the endoscopic brow lift, and be able to explain the care plan so you understand it before deciding.

A Varied Portfolio of Real Cases

Ask to see previous brow lift and forehead lift cases, especially cases similar to your face, not just photos that look good.

Complete Aftercare

A good clinic follows you up throughout recovery rather than finishing once the procedure is done, because results appear gradually over 3 to 6 months. Having an aftercare team to support you throughout the process is very important. For internationally recognised information about facial surgery, see Mayo Clinic Face-lift.

Why Choose S45 Clinic for a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift

S45 Clinic is an aesthetic medical clinic offering forehead lift and brow lift with an endoscopic technique and Endotine, under our promise ‘Because all beauty comes from care’. We plan care for each person individually rather than using a ready-made template.

Experienced Surgeons

S45 Clinic surgeons are experienced in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and can assess your face, plan a suitable technique and give advice before you decide.

All Endotine Types at S45 Clinic

S45 Clinic offers all types of Endotine, from Endotine Forehead, Transbleph and Midface to Ribbon. The surgeon chooses and plans the use that suits your face, rather than using the same type for every case.

Operating Theatre Standards and Anaesthetist Team

S45 Clinic has 7 standard operating theatres, with an anaesthetist team providing one-to-one care in cases under general anaesthetic, following the standards of the Department of Health Service Support (DHSS), with the anaesthetist team present throughout.

Aftercare Follow-Up Throughout

The S45 Clinic aftercare team follows you up from after surgery until the results are clear, to check that everything is going to plan and to deal with any warning signs early. See more about the service at endoscopic brow lift and face lift.

FAQ About Forehead Lift and Brow Lift

Will My Brows Look Overdone After a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift?

When planned by an experienced surgeon who understands facial proportions, the brows sit in a position balanced with your face and should not look overdone or stiff. The key is planning a position that suits each person’s facial features. Results depend on each person.

What Is the Difference Between an Endotine Brow Lift and an Endoscopic Brow Lift?

An endoscopic brow lift is the surgical technique, and Endotine is the device used to hold the position during the procedure. The two are always used together, so an ‘Endotine brow lift’ means endoscopic surgery that uses Endotine as the fixation device.

How Much Does Endotine Cost and What Is the Price of an Endoscopic Brow Lift?

The price depends on the extent of the procedure and the medical facility. At S45 Clinic, the endoscopic brow lift price is around THB 55,900. For Endotine prices and the latest prices, contact us directly on LINE @s45clinic.official, as prices may change over time.

From What Age Can I Have a Brow Lift?

There is no fixed minimum age, but it generally suits people with clear signs of sagging, which usually start from age 35. The surgeon always assesses your face in person first, rather than deciding by age alone.

Can I Have a Forehead Lift and Double Eyelid Surgery at the Same Time?

Yes, in some cases. The surgeon assesses whether to do them together or in separate stages, depending on the condition of the tissue under the skin, how complex the case is and your overall care plan.

Will I Have a Scar After a Forehead Lift and Brow Lift?

The endoscopic technique uses very small incisions hidden in the hairline. Most incisions heal well and are hard to see. How well the wound heals depends on each person’s skin and aftercare.

Will the Results Disappear Once Endotine Dissolves?

No. Endotine acts as a temporary support while the body forms new fibrous tissue. Once the new fibrous tissue holds the position, Endotine dissolving does not in itself reduce the result, because what keeps the result in place is the newly formed fibrous tissue.

How Many Days off Work Do I Need After a Forehead Lift?

Most people need 7 to 14 days of recovery before returning to work and seeing other people. However, this depends on the case and the type of work. If your work involves meeting clients or being in public, you may want 2 weeks for the swelling to go down fully.

Summary

A forehead lift and brow lift with the endoscopic brow lift technique and Endotine devices is an option for people with drooping brows, a sagging forehead or a face that looks tired without meaning to, who want a more noticeable result than botulinum toxin injections or HIFU.

Endotine is a PCL+PLLA device that holds the fibrous tissue in its new position while the body forms new fibrous tissue, before it is absorbed within 6 to 12 months, giving the lift a supporting structure over the long term. The endoscopic technique uses small incisions hidden in the hairline, with a shorter recovery than the open technique, which suits modern lifestyles.

The most important step before deciding is a consultation with an experienced surgeon to assess your face in person, because the suitable technique, the Endotine type to use and the expected result need to be planned to match your facial features. Results depend on each person.

Surgery and medical procedures carry risks. Find out about them and consult a doctor before you decide. Results depend on each person.