BROW LIFT • DermaBlue Asheville

Brow Lifts

We’re now able to offer brow lifts with the addition of Dr. Richard Levine, MD, FAAD, who has decades of experience and is one of the most sought after facial surgeons in the region.

What Is a Brow Lift?

A brow lift (sometimes called a forehead lift) raises and reshapes the brows to create a more open, alert, and refreshed appearance. Over time, the brows tend to descend gradually — creating deep horizontal forehead lines and making the upper eyes look heavy or tired, even when you feel perfectly well-rested.

Dr. Levine offers two techniques, and the right one depends on your anatomy, hairline, and aesthetic goals:

Trichophytic Brow Lift

The trichophytic technique uses an incision placed right at the frontal hairline. Because hair grows directly through the scar over time, it becomes very difficult to detect. This is often the preferred approach for patients who don’t want to raise their hairline — a common concern for those who already have a higher forehead.

Direct Brow Lift

The direct technique places the incision just above the brow itself. It offers precise, targeted elevation and is especially well-suited for patients with significant brow drooping, or those who want sculpted, well-defined brow shaping. It tends to work particularly well in older patients, where skin texture helps the incision line blend naturally over time.

What Results Can I Expect from a Brow Lift?

Most patients describe the result as looking more awake, approachable, and like themselves — just refreshed. A brow lift smooths forehead lines, elevates the brows to a more youthful position, and reduces the hooded heaviness over the eyes. In some cases, it can also improve peripheral vision if descending brows were obscuring the upper visual field. Results typically last 5 to 10 years or more.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Sutures are typically removed within 7 to 10 days. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions so you know exactly what to expect at each stage.

Days 1 to 5

Some swelling and bruising around the forehead and eyes is normal. The area may feel tight or numb. Rest at home and keep your head elevated.

Week 2

Bruising fades considerably. Most patients feel comfortable in public by the end of the second week.

Weeks 3 to 6

Residual swelling and any numbness or tingling in the forehead gradually resolves.

3 to 6 months

Final results become fully visible as healing completes.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Brow Lift?

A brow lift may be a good fit if you:

During your consultation, Dr. Levine will assess your brow position, forehead height, and hairline to recommend the most flattering approach for your anatomy — and let you know if a brow lift, blepharoplasty, or a combination of the two makes the most sense for your goals.

Brow Lift FAQs

Will a brow lift raise my hairline?

It depends on the technique. A trichophytic brow lift uses an incision placed directly at the frontal hairline, which actually allows the hairline to stay in place — or in some cases, be slightly lowered. It’s the preferred approach for patients who already have a longer forehead and don’t want to add height. A direct brow lift, which places the incision just above the brow itself, doesn’t affect the hairline at all. During your consultation, Dr. Levine will assess your forehead height and hairline placement to recommend the technique that makes the most anatomical sense for you.

What is the difference between a brow lift and blepharoplasty?

A brow lift elevates the position of the brows themselves, while blepharoplasty removes excess skin from the eyelids. They address different structures, but the results can look similar because brow descent often causes the upper lids to appear heavy. If the heaviness of your upper eyes is coming from low-sitting brows, a brow lift may be the more effective solution. If the issue is genuinely excess skin on the lids themselves, blepharoplasty is the right approach. Many patients benefit from both. Dr. Levine will help you understand the source of the concern so you’re not treating the wrong thing.

How long does a brow lift last?

Most patients enjoy brow lift results for 5 to 10 years. The brows will continue to age gradually over time, but from a higher, more youthful position than before surgery. Factors like skin quality, sun exposure, and genetics all play a role in longevity. Some patients who want to maintain their results over time choose to complement their surgical outcome with non-surgical treatments like Botox, which can help slow the re-descent of the brows between procedures.

What is the difference between a trichophytic and a direct brow lift?

A trichophytic brow lift places the incision at the hairline, allowing hair to grow through the scar and conceal it over time. It provides broad, consistent elevation across the forehead and brow. A direct brow lift uses an incision placed just above the eyebrow, offering more targeted, precise elevation and excellent control over brow shape. It tends to work especially well in older patients with thicker skin or significant brow drooping, where the incision blends naturally. Both approaches produce meaningful results — the right choice comes down to your anatomy, hairline position, and aesthetic goals.

Can a brow lift improve my vision?

In some cases, yes. When the brows have descended significantly, they push down on the upper eyelids and can reduce peripheral vision — making it harder to see things above or to the side without actively raising your brows. A brow lift can restore that visual field by elevating the brows and reducing the weight on the upper lids. If this is a concern for you, Dr. Levine can assess whether the cause is brow descent or excess eyelid skin (or both) and recommend the right procedure. In cases where vision is affected, there may also be insurance implications worth exploring with your provider.

Richard Levine, MD, FAAD - DermaBlue - Mohs Surgeon Asheville NC

Richard Levine, MD, FAAD

Board-Certified Mohs Surgeon  ·  Board-Certified Dermatologist

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Board-Certified Mohs Surgeon

FAAD

Fellow, AACS

20+ Years in Practice

Dr. Richard Levine is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon whose career reflects a genuine passion for every facet of dermatologic medicine, from general skin care to complex skin cancer surgery. After more than 20 years of practice in Colorado,  where he built a reputation for exceptional surgical outcomes and compassionate patient care, Dr. Levine recently relocated to the Asheville area. He brings with him a deep commitment to both precision medicine and the patient experience. Dr. Levine is a Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and enjoys practicing the full spectrum of dermatology and dermatologic surgery.

Learn More About Brow Lifts

Questions about brow lift surgery? Looking to refer a patient to Dr. Levine? Contact us by completing the form and a member of our team will reach out to confirm your appointment within one business day.

DermaBlue Asheville

1998 Hendersonville Rd, Unit 53
Asheville, NC 28803

828-585-5489

HOURS
Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sat-Sun: Closed

DermaBlue Hendersonville

120 South Grove Street
Hendersonville, NC 28792

828-685-2917

HOURS
Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sat-Sun: Closed

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NEW PATIENTS GET $100 OFF ANY COSMETIC TREATMENT

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