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Brow + Forehead Lift in Washington DC

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Overview of Brow + Forehead Lift in Washington DC

A brow lift, or forehead lift, is a surgical procedure whereby the eyebrows are elevated, the forehead skin is smoothed, and the frown lines are softened. Many patients choose to get their brow lift in Washington, DC, at SHERBER+RAD.

Depending on a patient’s unique needs many different types of forehead lift can be performed: endoscopic, mini-brow lift, coronal, and trans-blepharoplasty.

Acclaimed board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ariel Rad specializes in highly sophisticated rejuvenation techniques, which he developed while Director of Aesthetic Surgery at Johns Hopkins and which he continues to refine today.

He utilizes the full spectrum of techniques, from endoscopic to short scar to coronal approaches, which Dr. Rad uses to tailor a unique solution to meet each patient’s unique needs.


Learn The Nuance Of The Washington DC Brow + Forehead Lift


BROW + FOREHEAD LIFT

Am I a Good Candidate?

People of all ages can benefit from this procedure. With age or by genetics, the eyebrows may droop or have an undesirable shape, crowding the eyes and giving the upper face a sad, aged or fatigued appearance. Hyperactivity of the forehead muscle, called the frontalis, causes forehead wrinkling which can lead to deep, permanent forehead furrows.

While Botox is the gold standard for temporary forehead smoothing, only surgical brow lifts can reposition the eyebrows, permanently smooth the forehead and frown lines, and brighten the eyes. In Dr. Rad’s hands, this procedure gives beautiful results at any age and so there is no particular age restriction. The most common reason to undergo the surgery is due to aging of the forehead.

However, genetics and anatomy play a strong role: from a young age, some patients have low, heavy, “sad,” or asymmetrical eyebrows or a wrinkled forehead and frown areas. Everyone’s anatomy is different, which is why it’s important to consult with Dr. Rad in person so that he can tailor the surgical approach to achieve the best results.

WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT?

Your vision for your results will emerge through detailed consultation with Dr. Rad, meticulous examination of your anatomy, and careful pre-surgical planning. While his surgical approach is unique for each patient, the goal of naturalness remains constant. Looking over brow lift before and after photos in our gallery will help you better understand the results that Dr. Rad can achieve.

Swipe left/right to view the slideshow

  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Facelift Surgery Results Washington DC
  • Facelift Surgery Results Washington DC
  • Facelift Surgery Results Washington DC
  • Facelift Surgery Results Washington DC
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Patient of Dr. Ariel Rad
  • Actual Patient of Dr. Ariel Rad
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient
  • Facial Contouring
  • Facial Contouring
  • Facial Contouring
  • Actual Facial Cosmetic Surgery Patient

Actual Washington DC Brow + Forehead Lift Patient of Dr. Rad’s
See More Top Brow + Forehead Lift Results

Sherber+Rad cannot guarantee specific results.
Individual results may vary.

How Does Dr. Rad Approach Brow + Forehead Lift Surgery?

The forehead lift approach depends on the technique being utilized. In the endoscopic technique, small, hidden scalp incisions are made through which instruments, and a camera for guidance, can be placed to release the forehead tissues and elevate.

The endoscopic technique is suitable for patients who desire eyebrow elevation and do not have excessively wrinkled skin. In the mini-brow lift (also called “short incision”), short incisions are placed along the hairline and allow targeted lifting of the outer eyebrows. Optimal for women, this technique results in a hidden scar when the hair is worn as bangs.

In the coronal technique, a long incision is placed either along the hairline or at the top of the scalp through which the entire forehead skin can be elevated. Dr. Rad uses this approach for patients in their 60s or older, those who require significant elevation of the eyebrows and/or need corrective work.

If powerful frown lines are your concern and you desire a permanent “Botox effect” then investigate Dr. Rad’s “frown line reduction” technique. Here, he uses hidden incisions within the upper eyelid to access the corrugator muscles and weaken them. Read more about these techniques on their individual pages.

BROW + FOREHEAD LIFT: ENDOSCOPIC BROW LIFT

An endoscopic brow (aka endobrow) lift is employed when the smallest incisions are needed and a patient does not have excess folds of forehead skin. In this technique a lighted telescope connected to a camera is passed through small incisions the caliber of a drinking straw. Dr. Rad then detaches forehead tissues from the underlying forehead bone and then elevates the forehead skin upwards, and anchors the tissues using an “Endotine”™ device or with suture. The incisions are closed meticulously to leave minimal appearance of the scars.

IS THIS TECHNIQUE RIGHT FOR ME?

The “endobrow” technique is best for young patients (30s and 40s) who do not have excessively wrinkled forehead skin which may require redraping via the “short incision” or the “coronal” technique.

Dr. Rad uses the endoscopic technique to give women a beautifully arched eyebrow shape and to give men an evenly elevated eyebrow position. He also uses the technique to subtly shift the hairline up and back for patients with a “short forehead”, i.e. a short distance from the eyebrows to the hairline and who desire improved forehead proportion.

If your hairline has receded and your forehead is long, then the endoscopic option may not be the best procedure for you because it will lengthen your forehead further. Instead, you may benefit from the coronal technique, where the forehead can be shortened simultaneously with elevation of the eyebrows.

Finally, Dr. Rad can give patients a “permanent Botox” effect by accessing the currugator muscles, which cause frowning, and weaken them.


HOW IS IT PERFORMED?

Surgery is performed under anesthesia for maximum comfort and safety. Dr. Rad first makes small, hidden incisions in the hair-bearing scalp just wide enough to allow passage of long instruments that are the width of a drinking straw. All layers of the forehead above the skull bone are elevated and the tissue attachments of the eyebrows are released. For women, Dr. Rad takes great care to release the lateral eyebrows so as to create a gently upward sloping shape. The tissues are then repositioned upward and secured to the underlying forehead bone with suture.

The doctor pays careful attention to pre-existing asymmetries in position and corrects them. Often, one eyebrow is lower than the other, thus requiring a certain level of skill in order to achieve symmetry. In addition to eyebrow shaping, frown muscle weakening is often performed so that frown (“number 11”) lines are softened but not frozen. A drain is placed and it is removed the next day.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY AFTER ENDOSCOPIC BROW LIFT SURGERY?

This option is not appropriate for every patient. Generally, patients in their 20s to 40s will benefit most from this technique because younger patients do not have as much forehead skin furrowing requiring skin smoothing techniques such as the mini-brow lift or the coronal techniques. Hidden scars, good eyebrow elevation, as well as frown line reduction and smoothing are the main advantages of this approach. Patients also benefit from the relatively short recovery of 4-6 days.

If frown line reduction is performed, or extended release of the periosteum (the tissue cover over the skull) is required, then recovery can last up to a week. Because every patient’s healing ability varies, it is recommended that you reserve a few extra days as a “buffer” so that you can return to your normal activities safely and earlier if normal healing permits.

  • Actual Brow + Forehead Lift  Patient
  • Actual Brow + Forehead Lift  Patient

BROW + FOREHEAD LIFT: CORONAL BROW LIFT

This option is also known as a “short incision” brow lift. Although scars are short, the technique gives excellent results with hidden scars. It is a tried-and-true approach in Dr. Rad’s hands, and he uses this technique for patients of all ages and who have greater “lateral hooding” of eyebrow and eyelid tissues requiring greater lift than what an endoscopic approach can achieve. This method is a highly specialized technique and requires a certain level of skill to avoid visible scars and to achieve perfect symmetry. Not every surgeon is capable of performing it to Dr. Rad’s standard.

IS THIS OPTION RIGHT FOR ME?

The “mini-brow lift” technique is best for patients of all ages whose forehead skin is moderately wrinkles. Dr. Rad uses this technique to smooth forehead skin and to elevate the eyebrows by 2-3 mm (a modest elevation). Unlike the endoscopic approach, this surgical option is effective in smoothing wrinkled forehead skin, but it is not effective in changing the position of the hairline or weakening the the frown muscles. To move the hairline position back, the endoscopic is ideal, whereas to move it forward the coronal approach is best.

HOW IS IT PERFORMED?

Surgery is performed under anesthesia for maximum comfort and safety. First, short incisions are made along the hairline, parallel to the direction of the hair follicles so as to avoid their injury and hairline alopecia (hair loss). He then carefully elevates the skin and fat layer together away from the underlying muscle layer. This is called a “subcutaneous” dissection, which allows the surgeon to smooth the forehead skin. He elevates tissues all the way down to the eyebrows and releases the attachments along the temples. Once the tissues are adequately mobilized on both sides, he elevates the brows upward symmetrically, removes the excess skin and then closes the incisions. He pays careful attention to pre-existing asymmetries in position and corrects them. If frown muscle weakening is planned then this is performed through an upper blepharoplasty (eyelid) incision. Depending on the extent of the dissection a drain may be placed and removed the next day.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY AFTER THIS SURGICAL TECHNIQUE?

Swelling and bruising are mild and may occur in the upper eyelids because gravity pulls fluid downward. With regular icing and moderation of physical activity swelling and bruising typically resolve in a matter of days. The extent of surgery and variability in each patient’s tissue healing will impact recover and Dr. Rad will guide you. However, he performs the least amount of surgery to achieve the result, so you can be sure your recovery is the shortest possible.

BROW + FOREHEAD LIFT: MALE BROW + FOREHEAD LIFT

Male brow and forehead lift is a procedure focused on restoring eyebrow and forehead symmetry specifically for men. The surgical approaches are unique given that the male face has different anatomy and aesthetics as compared with women.

The male forehead tends to be flatter, and the eyebrow is horizontal in shape, as compared with the upward arch of a woman’s brow. Furthermore, it should overlie the brow bone, whereas a woman’s eyebrow should rest just above it. Fullness in the lower forehead, called “frontal bossing,” is a common feature, as well.

Dr. Rad pays meticulous attention to the details of the male brow so that results are optimized.

IS THIS OPTION RIGHT FOR ME?

A male forehead lift should be performed only by Board certified plastic surgeons. Dr. Rad’s technique is not “cookie cutter.” Rather, he tailors his approach according to your unique anatomy and goals. Oftentimes severe asymmetry requires additional reconstructive procedures for correction. An in-person consultation with Dr. Rad is crucial to determine whether this surgery is right for you.

HOW IS IT PERFORMED?

Dr. Rad first assesses your forehead, hairline and eyebrow anatomy, and the exact placement of the incision to optimize forehead aesthetics and overall facial proportion. He considers eyebrow and facial asymmetry at rest: while you are standing upright with your eyebrows relaxed, Dr. Rad takes precise measurements and makes markings while double checking to ensure symmetry. The incision is planned along the hairline, a “pre-trichial” approach, although some of the incision may traverse the hair-bearing scalp. The precise pattern of scar is based on the doctor’s thorough assessment of the ideal aesthetic appearance you’re seeking.

Dr. Rad carefully “bevels” the incision so that hair follicles are preserved and hair growth occurs through the scar thus camouflaging it. He identifies important sensory nerves and protects them to prevent numbness, and he then dissects the posterior scalp to mobilize it forward. If the forehead skin requires smoothing and/or a brow lift is needed, then the forehead tissues are elevated as well. Frown muscle (Corrugator supercilii) muscle weakening can be performed simultaneously.

Then the artistic aspect of the surgery involves advancing the scalp forward, elevating the eyebrows and smoothing the forehead skin to the perfect position. Dr. Rad makes meticulous adjustments measured in millimeters and, since gravity influences brow position, he checks symmetry multiple times while you’re upright. He then closes the incision precisely with fine suture.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY AFTER THIS SURGERY?

A male brow and forehead lift is an outpatient procedure and recovery lasts about a 1-2 weeks. The results are immediate and minor discomfort, bruising and swelling resolve after a few days. Sutures are removed after 1 week. You should avoid heavy lifting, such as at the gym, or inverted positions, such as yoga head stands, for about 4 weeks but otherwise you may return to normal activities quickly.

Q+A

WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF A BROW LIFT?

In Dr. Rad’s hands, this surgery is effective in achieving the following goals: Elevating the eyebrows, Creating a natural arch and peak (for women), Creating a masculine eyebrow configuration (for men), Smoothing the forehead skin, Eliminating forehead + frown wrinkles + furrows (a “permanent Botox” effect), Elevating upper eyelid skin, Restoring eyebrow symmetry, Lowering or raising the hairline

WHAT IS THE IDEAL EYEBROW SHAPE FOR WOMEN?

A gentle upward arch to the outer peak is preferred, and then slight arch downward, and the position should be at the eye socket edge (called “superior orbital rim”). Dr. Rad pays attention to these anatomical details to give each patient a harmonious result.

WHAT IS THE IDEAL EYEBROW SHAPE FOR MEN?

The ideal position is horizontal and positioned along the eye socket edge (called “superior orbital rim”). The medial (inner) edge of the brow should be aligned with the inner corner of the eye and the outer aspect of the nostril. The outer edge of the brow should be aligned with the outer corner of the eye. These alignments form a triangle that shows proper proportion with the rest of the central face.

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE?

Recovery for a minimally invasive forehead lift procedure is 48-72 hours, whereas for full forehead lift through a coronal approach, the downtime can be about one week, possibly longer depending on the extent of the procedures performed. Dr. Rad always endeavors to achieve optimal results with the least down time and we are sensitive to your need to return to normal activities and professional obligations quickly. We recommend an in-person consultation to determine the optimal approach and Dr. Rad will review expectations for recovery time.

CAN DR. RAD CORRECT POOR WORK DONE ELSEWHERE?

Dr. Rad performs corrective work on patients treated elsewhere and who’ve had unsatisfactory results. If the eyebrows are over-elevated, or asymmetrically elevated, then a number of problems can arise. The most common problem is a “surprised look.” This is caused by exuberant release of the entire forehead tissues and uneven tension when the forehead is lifted. Dr. Rad avoids this by precisely controlling the degree of tissue release and tension. When he corrects this problem cause by another surgeon, he reverses the pull on tissues in order to restore normal shape. Other problems that can arise is an angry look or the “Spock brow” caused by over-elevation of the outer brows. This can be a challenge to fix, but Dr. Rad has addressed this by releasing the inner aspect of the eyebrows. Finally, a sad appearance can occur when the inner brow is higher than the outer brow. This is caused by exuberant release of the inner brow tissues and inadequate release of the outer tissues. This is a common error amongst inexperienced surgeons and which Dr. Rad has extensive experience treating. To correct this, the doctor evaluates the overall position of the brows: if too low, then elevating the outer area is the approach; if too high, then lowering the inner position is effective.

HOW CAN I BE SURE I’LL GET OPTIMAL RESULTS?

Experience is key: as a Board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Rad has performed thousands of facial cosmetic operations and while Director of Aesthetic Surgery at Johns Hopkins Dr. Rad instructed surgeons-in-training in complex surgical techniques. During your consultation, the doctor performs a detailed evaluation of your anatomy, both at rest and during animation (i.e. while engaging in conversation), with precise measurements, photography and aesthetic judgment. Together with you, Dr. Rad customizes a highly specific operative plan to achieve the most harmonious, natural results with minimal down time. If you’ve had prior suboptimal results then you’re in the right hands: Dr. Rad routinely performs corrective work on patients who seek his experience following poor results performed elsewhere.

DO I NEED A BLEPHAROPLASTY OR FOREHEAD LIFT OR BOTH?

The eyebrow and upper eyelid are intimately related, and for optimal aesthetics, it’s important to address both. If the eyebrow is in a properly elevated position with arched contour, and upper eyelid skin excess is a concern, then upper blepharoplasty is indicated. If the eyebrows are low, then excess upper eyelid skin may be relieved partially or completely with the forehead lift procedure. If excess upper eyelid skin is only partially relieved by forehead lifting, then combining the two is best. Keep in mind that correct diagnosis is essential and the right approach requires in person evaluation with Dr. Rad.


What are Dr. Rad’s patients saying?

  • “Dr. Ariel Rad is the finest physician I’ve ever met! I’ve worked with Dr. Rad over the last five years and he encompasses everything you’d hope from a physician and much more. He possesses the highest intellect, sophistication, dedication, and compassion. I can’t say enough about Dr. Rad. Every appointment I’ve had with him has exceeded my expectations. He’s the absolute best! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dr. Ariel Rad to my family and friends for medical care.”

    Esther A. | May, 2018

  • “Dr. Rad is simply the best. From the first consult to getting the best results in the end, he is amazing. His work is flawless and made me feel comfortable through the entire process. I highly recommend to anyone in search of a great surgeon!”

    Cayla Z. | January, 2020

  • “I recently underwent surgery with Dr. Rad and could not have had a more exceptional experience. Dr. Rad takes the time to thoroughly explain his approach and answer any and all questions. He made myself and my family feel at ease throughout the experience and provided top-level patient care. His eye for detail and aesthetic is amazing and I could not be happier with the results. I feel like the best version of myself thanks to Dr. Rad and would highly recommend him.”

    Zoe in DC | November, 2016

Consultation with Dr. Rad

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM MY CONSULTATION WITH DR. RAD?

Our plastic surgery office in Washington DC is centered on your comfort and privacy. You’ll be received by our exquisitely attentive staff, and escorted to your own private cabana wherein you’ll feel relaxed and comfortable while consulting discreetly with Dr. Rad. First Dr. Rad will determine if you are a good candidate for surgery and during your consultation you should decide if Dr. Rad is the right surgeon for you. Credentials are crucial and, in addition to being Board certified in plastic surgery, Dr. Rad is Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins, and he enjoys an impeccable reputation as a top flight aesthetic surgeon. His facial plastic surgery expertise is sought out as one of the best surgeons in Washington DC, northern Virginia and the US.

Your safety is Dr. Rad's primary concern and he will review your medical history. You should inform Dr. Rad of any medical problems or medications that may affect your healing. If you are medically appropriate to undergo surgery then Dr. Rad's focus will be to understand what specific aesthetic concerns you have. Washington DC patients expect natural results with minimal downtime. Dr. Rad will spend time carefully listening to your concerns, asking clarifying questions and then masterfully guiding you, step by step, to understand how your unique anatomy can be improved to convey a rested appearance. Dr. Rad’s goal is to determine the most comprehensive approach for long lasting, natural results while minimizing downtime. Dr. Rad first needs to understand your specific concerns and you should prepare your thoughts prior to your consultation. Think of words that convey how you feel about your appearance. For example, Washington DC patients often say they look fatigued, tired or lackluster because of undereye bags or dark undereye circles, or they look sad, upset or disinterested such as from heavy eyebrows, excess skin above the eyes or downturned corners of the mouth. Patients often relate concerns of looking older than how they feel and this can be caused by jowls, nasolabial folds, loose neck skin, lines and wrinkles. Try to put into words how your appearance bothers you, and the priority you give to each area. Dr. Rad will then present to you his expert opinion about which procedures would be best to restore your anatomy to create a rested and refreshed appearance. And since surgery is intricate Dr. Rad will guide you through a stepwise approach of aesthetic analysis and he’ll deliver his recommendations in a clear and honest manner. Dr. Rad will present all options available in modern day surgery, both non-surgical and surgical.

Dr. Rad and Board certified dermatologist Dr. Sherber often collaborate to optimize patients’ results and to minimize invasiveness. As such Dr. Rad’s modern approach to surgery harnesses the power of both dermatology and plastic surgery as both specialities address different aesthetic challenges. For example, plastic surgery is effective to lift, tighten and volumize loose, atrophied tissues, whereas dermatologic treatments such as laser, radiofrequency tightening and skincare are best to improve skin texture, pigmentation and tone. Dr. Rad can address any concerns regarding skin quality and how to obtain and maintain optimal results.

Dr. Rad will review with you photos of his patients’ results (many of which you’ll not find online due to privacy concerns) to highlight his aesthetic approaches and skill. He will take your photographs, which remain confidential, to assist with the planning of your surgery. For your safety Dr. Rad performs surgery in a hospital-based operating room, considered to be the safest environment, rather than in the office. Anesthesia is delivered by a board certified anesthesiologist (MD) and you’ll be under light anesthesia which is important for your safety and comfort.

You will receive a customized quote for the procedures in which you’re interested. Once approved we may then move forward with pre-operative preparations and you will meet with Dr. Rad again at your final in person consultation prior to surgery. Dr. Rad’s reputation as one of the most technically gifted surgeons attracts patients nationally and from around the world. We cater to patients from across the globe by arranging virtual consultations, luxury accommodations at The Jefferson hotel, Washington DC’s most luxurious 5 star boutique hotel, as well as private nursing care. Your privacy, comfort and safely achieving exceptional results are our top priorities.

About your Washington DC surgeon

Dr. Rad’s credentials speak for themselves: Princeton (B.S.E, Magna Cum Laude), Duke School of Medicine (M.D.) and University of London (Ph.D.) educated and Johns Hopkins Plastic Surgery trained, he is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins, and long-standing member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dr. Rad is considered an expert in facial plastic surgery and microsurgery. He is ranked the #1 plastic surgeon in Washington DC based on aggregate ratings from all independent ranking websites: “top rated local“, “three best rated” top plastic surgeon and “top plastic surgeon reviews“. SHERBER+RAD have never engaged in paid advertising, and all rankings, reviews are from vetted and respected sources.

Meet Dr. Rad

What is the cost of Brow + Forehead Lift in DC?

The cost of a brow lift in Washington, DC, depends on many factors: the type of forehead lift, whether it is performed in-office or in a hospital-based OR, and the quality/skill of the surgeon. At Dr. Rad’s practice, the price of forehead lift surgery ranges from $5,500 for an in-office direct brow lift to $25,000 – $35,000 for endoscopic, coronal brow lift or forehead reduction, and up to $50,000 for corrective work. While total cost increases when combined with other procedures, surgery is cost-effective when multiple procedures are combined. Cost is a reflection of the skill and experience required to obtain excellent results. Under our care, your experience is guaranteed to be the highest quality.

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Sherber+Rad1101 15th St. NW, Suite 100, Washington, D.C. 20005