Brow Lift Recovery Day by Day: What to Expect

The first 24 hours after an endoscopic brow lift are all about rest and protection. Patients are typically sent home with a cotton compression dressing over the forehead and scalp, which helps minimize swelling and prevent fluid buildup under the skin. While not always used, a small surgical drain may also be placed to assist with this. It’s important to avoid disturbing any dressings during this period.

Mild to moderate pain and discomfort are normal and can be managed with oral medications as prescribed. Some swelling and bruising will begin to appear around the upper face, especially near the eyes and bridge of the nose. Applying cool compresses gently to the closed eyes (not the forehead if covered) and keeping your head elevated are key to minimizing swelling. This early stage of healing sets the tone for the days to come, so take it easy and follow all aftercare instructions closely.

During days two and three, swelling and bruising typically reach their peak. The forehead and scalp may feel tight or achy, and a throbbing sensation can occur, especially in the evening or when lying down. Bruising around the upper eyelids and bridge of the nose may become more prominent, and in some cases, swelling can temporarily affect the ability to fully open the eyes.

This is also the phase when patients may feel the most uncomfortable, but it’s a normal part of the healing process. Continue using cold compresses on the eyes and keep your head elevated when sleeping or resting. Avoid any strenuous activity, and be mindful of any sudden increase in pain, as this could signal a complication that should be reported to your surgeon.

By days four through six, most patients start to feel a noticeable shift toward healing. The initial compression dressing, if used, is typically removed at this stage, allowing you to begin showering and gently washing your hair with care around the incision sites. You’ll also start daily wound care by cleaning the small scalp incisions with hydrogen peroxide and applying antibiotic ointment two to three times a day.

Bruising and swelling, though still present, begin to ease. While your brow position may look too elevated during this time, don’t worry—this is temporary and part of the natural settling process. You’ll be wearing a supportive headband over your forehead almost constantly during this phase (except when showering), which helps maintain proper positioning and supports the healing tissues.

As you reach the end of the first week, swelling and bruising begin to noticeably improve. While some discoloration and puffiness may still be visible—particularly around the eyes—many patients feel more comfortable being seen in public, often with the help of makeup or sunglasses. The tight sensation across the forehead and scalp usually persists but becomes less intense.

Incision care continues during this stage, with cleaning and antibiotic ointment applied regularly. You should still be wearing your headband throughout the day, which helps reduce swelling and encourages the tissues to heal in the correct position. The body is now entering a more stable healing phase, and many patients begin to feel like they’re turning a corner in their recovery journey.

Around the second to third week after surgery, most patients return to their surgeon’s office for staple removal. These staples are used to close the small incisions made in the scalp and are typically removed between days 10 and 21. In some cases, tiny screws used to support the scalp during healing may also be removed at this time. Patients are often surprised at how painless this step is—removal is quick and involves minimal to no discomfort.

By now, bruising and swelling have usually improved significantly. Most patients can switch to wearing the headband only at night and stop cleaning or applying ointment to the incisions. While numbness may still be present across the forehead or scalp, you may begin to notice tingling or prickly sensations—this is a positive sign that nerve endings are starting to regenerate.

By the end of the first month, many patients feel largely recovered and ready to return to normal routines. Swelling and bruising have mostly resolved, leaving the facial features looking more natural and refined. The tight sensation across the forehead continues to ease, although some residual numbness or tingling may persist as nerves continue to regenerate.

Most patients no longer need to wear the headband during the day and can return to light exercise and more regular activities, as long as they avoid anything too strenuous. It’s also common at this stage to become more aware of your results, though the final position of the brows won’t fully settle until several months later. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon help ensure everything is healing properly.

At the six-month mark, most patients see the final, lasting results of their brow lift. The brow position has fully settled into its natural, rejuvenated shape, and any lingering swelling or puffiness has resolved. While a small area of numbness in the scalp may persist, most nerve sensations have typically returned or stabilized.

This is also when the overall improvement in facial appearance becomes most apparent. Fine lines are softer, the brow appears more lifted and rested, and the face reflects a refreshed, youthful energy. Patients can feel confident and comfortable enjoying their full results without restriction.