How Long Does a Brow Lift Last?
Short answer
For surgical brow lifts, results can last 5 years or more, though some gradual settling is normal over time. The technique used and how the tissues are secured play a big role in longevity. Non-surgical options like Botox are temporary and typically last only a few months.
What the research shows
Studies following patients for several years give us a good picture of how long brow lift results hold up. One study tracking 31 patients for an average of 5.4 years found that measurable brow elevation was still present at that point, and 64% of patients still looked better than before surgery, though there was some gradual relapse, especially at the outer tail of the eyebrow [7]. A separate study of 538 patients found that results were stable well beyond 3 months when a strong fixation technique was used, with measurements staying consistent long-term [4]. Another study using a device called an Endotine showed stable brow elevation for up to 55 months (about 4.5 years) [3].
One large review noted that brow elevation after an endoscopic lift decreased by roughly 1 mm per year on average, but patients still reported high satisfaction at an average follow-up of 38 months [5]. A newer minimally invasive technique called the gliding brow lift showed maintained lift at all measured points through 12 months, with the most noticeable improvement at the outer brow [8].
Does technique matter?
Yes, quite a bit. Research directly comparing fixation methods found that patients whose tissues were secured with sutures tied through small bone tunnels kept their results long-term, while those fixed with fibrin glue saw significant relapse after 3 months [4]. The endoscopic approach (small incisions with a tiny camera) is currently the most popular surgical method and offers shorter scars and a lower risk of hair loss compared to older open techniques, though longevity can still vary [1] [2]. Non-surgical options like Botox or filler-based brow lifting are temporary by nature and need to be repeated regularly [1].
What this means for you
Most patients who choose a surgical brow lift can realistically expect results that last several years, with gradual, natural-looking settling over time. The outer portion of the brow tends to relax more than the inner portion over the long run [7]. Your surgeon's choice of technique and fixation method will influence how long your results last, so it is worth asking specifically about this during your consultation. If you are considering a non-surgical lift (such as Botox), plan for touch-ups every few months to maintain the effect [1].
Caveats
Most of the studies available are cohort studies following patients over time, rather than randomized controlled trials, which means they can show trends but have some limitations [3] [4] [5] [7]. Individual results vary based on age, skin quality, anatomy, and lifestyle factors. Longer follow-up data beyond 5 years is limited, so it is not fully clear how results look at 10 or more years.