What is a temporal lift

A temporal lift—also called a lateral brow lift—is a cosmetic procedure designed to subtly rejuvenate the upper face by lifting the outer portion of the eyebrows and smoothing fine lines around the temples. This area is often the first to show age-related drooping, which can contribute to a tired or downturned look. During the procedure, surgeons make small, discreet incisions hidden within the hairline above the temples to access the underlying muscle and tissue. By gently repositioning and anchoring these structures higher on the face—sometimes with the removal of excess skin or scalp—the result is a more refreshed, alert appearance around the eyes without dramatically altering your natural expression. Compared to more aggressive brow lift techniques, a temporal lift is known for producing soft, natural-looking results with less downtime and barely visible scarring. It’s especially well-suited for individuals looking to correct sagging in the outer brow without affecting the central forehead or creating a “surprised” look.

How is a temporal lift performed

A temporal lift is typically performed using a minimally invasive approach, with the surgeon making short incisions—usually about an inch in length—just behind the hairline above each temple. Through these hidden entry points, the tissues and underlying muscles in the outer brow area are gently elevated and repositioned to restore a more lifted and refreshed appearance. If necessary, a small amount of excess skin or scalp is trimmed to enhance the final contour. Once the adjustments are complete, the incisions are closed with fine sutures. This procedure is often done under local anesthesia with light sedation, making it more comfortable for the patient while avoiding general anesthesia. Because it targets only the outer brow, the results tend to be subtle and natural-looking. Many patients choose to pair the temporal lift with eyelid surgery to further enhance the eye area. With careful technique and the incisions discreetly hidden in the hairline, scarring is minimal and recovery tends to be faster than with more extensive brow lift procedures—most people are back to daily routines within about 10 days.

Different ways a temporal lift can be performed

While all temporal lifts aim to rejuvenate the outer brow and temple area, the approach can vary depending on the technique used. Each method offers unique advantages and is chosen based on a patient’s anatomy, goals, and the surgeon’s expertise. Here’s a look at four commonly used approaches:

Endoscopic Temporal Lift

This minimally invasive technique uses a tiny camera (endoscope) inserted through small incisions behind the hairline. The surgeon lifts and repositions the underlying tissues while watching the procedure in real-time on a screen. Endoscopic lifts allow for precise adjustments with less trauma to surrounding tissue and reduced recovery time. Scarring is minimal, and most patients return to normal activities within about a week to 10 days.

Deep Plane Temporal Lift

In this more advanced technique, the lift goes deeper than the superficial tissue layers. The surgeon dissects below the muscles and connective tissue (known as the deep plane) to release key facial retaining ligaments. This allows for more dramatic lifting and repositioning of the brow with longer-lasting results. Deep plane lifts are ideal for patients with significant brow descent or thicker skin, though the recovery may be slightly longer than with less invasive methods.

SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) Temporal Lift

The SMAS layer is a fibrous tissue network that supports facial structure. In a SMAS temporal lift, the surgeon elevates this specific layer to provide more structural support and natural-looking results. It’s a popular technique because it addresses both surface laxity and deeper tissue sagging, offering a balanced improvement in contour and expression.

Vertical Temporal Lift

This technique lifts the brow and temple in an upward, vertical direction—ideal for opening up the outer eye and counteracting a heavy, downward-angled brow. By lifting the tissue vertically instead of at an angle, this method avoids the risk of an unnatural “pulled” look, making it a great option for those who want to maintain a soft, natural appearance. It’s often used in younger patients or as part of combination procedures for a refined enhancement.

Each of these techniques can be customized to fit individual facial anatomy and aesthetic preferences. The best way to determine which is right for you is to consult a board-certified plastic or facial plastic surgeon who specializes in brow rejuvenation and can tailor the approach to your unique goals.

How much does a temporal lift cost

A temporal lift—also referred to as a lateral or brow lift—can vary widely in cost depending on the country, the surgeon’s expertise, and the specifics of the procedure. In the United States, the average price typically falls between $3,000 USD and $10,000 USD, though it can extend from $2,000 USD to well over $20,000 USD when factoring in anesthesia and facility fees, especially in high-cost metropolitan areas. Australia tends to have higher pricing, with procedures usually ranging from $8,000 AUD to over $20,000 AUD, largely influenced by surgical technique and clinic reputation. For those seeking more cost-effective options, destinations like Mexico and Turkey offer significantly lower prices. In Mexico, patients may expect to pay around $2,000 USD per procedure, while in Turkey, the cost can be as low as $1,500 USD, with upper-end estimates of $3,500 USD. These international savings often stem from a lower cost of living and, in Turkey’s case, government incentives supporting its medical tourism sector. Regardless of location, patients should carefully assess the qualifications of their provider and the quality of care offered to ensure both safety and optimal results.

What are the risks and possible side effects of a temporal lift

Though temporal lifts are considered one of the lower-risk procedures in facial plastic surgery, they still come with some potential side effects to be aware of. Common issues include mild nausea post-anesthesia, temporary numbness or tingling around the incision area, and minor hair loss near the surgical site. In most cases, sensations like numbness subside within a few months, but in rare instances, they may persist longer or become permanent. Bruising or hematoma (blood pooling under the skin) can also occur but are usually manageable with proper aftercare.

Because the incisions are typically made behind the hairline, scarring is generally well-concealed and fades over time. However, scarring results can vary based on the technique used, so it’s wise to ask your surgeon for before-and-after images from past patients to get a clearer picture of what to expect. While serious complications are rare, issues like uneven brow positioning, brows that appear overly lifted, or difficulty closing the eyes completely may occur and could require revision surgery.

It’s also worth noting that the risk of complications can vary depending on the specific technique. A 2017 analysis that reviewed 76 studies found that each approach carries a different risk profile: the hairline method had the highest rate of revision surgery at 7.4%, the direct technique showed the highest rate of prolonged numbness at 5.5%, and the endoscopic method was most commonly associated with hair loss, at 2.8%. This highlights the importance of choosing a technique—and a surgeon—that aligns with your goals and individual anatomy.

How long do results from a temporal lift last

While a temporal lift, especially a more extensive technique like a deep plane, can deliver impressive results that last up to 10 years or more, it’s important to remember that no procedure can completely halt the natural aging process. Over time, gravity, sun exposure, and a gradual loss of collagen will continue to affect the skin’s firmness and elasticity, leading to renewed drooping in the forehead area.

That said, there are effective ways to help prolong your results and keep your skin looking its best. Incorporating high-quality, medical-grade skincare into your daily routine, particularly products that promote collagen and hydration, can make a noticeable difference. Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day is essential to prevent sun-related damage and premature aging. For an added boost, non-invasive treatments like Ultherapy or microneedling with radiofrequency energy can stimulate collagen production and subtly tighten the skin, helping to maintain your refreshed look for years to come.

What is recovery like for a temporal lift

Recovery following a temporal brow lift is typically smooth and straightforward, with most patients noticing only mild swelling and bruising that begins to fade within the first week or two. It’s not uncommon to experience some tightness or temporary numbness across the brow or temple area, though these sensations usually ease over the following weeks. Many people feel well enough to return to light routines, such as walking or running errands, just a few days after surgery, and gradually return to work and more regular activities within two weeks. As the healing process continues, physical activity can be increased—usually starting around the six-week mark—as long as it’s cleared by your surgeon. The most noticeable improvement in brow position and overall facial freshness appears within the first few weeks once the majority of swelling has settled, but the full results continue to refine over several months. By the six-month point, the brow should be fully settled into its new contour, revealing a naturally lifted, more youthful appearance.