
What is Temporal Lift?
Temporal lift is a surgical rejuvenation method applied to individuals who experience drooping of the outer part of the eyebrow (lateral brow), skin accumulation/wrinkles around the corners of the eyes, and downward sagging at the outer corner of the eye (lateral canthus) due to aging or structural reasons. The aim is to lift the outer edge of the eyebrow, the eye corner, and the cheek area upward to achieve a more dynamic, lively, and refreshed facial expression.
Who is it Suitable for?
• Those with drooping at the outer edge of the eyebrow and a "tired" expression
• Those with pronounced wrinkles and skin accumulation at the corners of the eyes
• Those with mild to moderate sagging in the cheeks and downward outward tilt
• Patients expecting permanent/long-lasting results instead of temporary methods such as forehead/eyebrow botox or thread lift
Note: A personalized plan is made for each patient according to facial analysis; temporal lift can be performed alone or combined with upper–lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), forehead lift, or midface lift.
How is the Surgery Performed?
• Incisions: Short incisions of about 3–5 cm are made in the temporal region, hidden within the hairline at the front of the scalp.
• Dissection Plane: Safe release is performed at the subcutaneous–superficial fascia level (temporoparietal fascia/SMAS extensions).
• Vector: The outer brow, eye corner, and cheek/malar tissues are lifted upward–outward and fixed.
• Nerve Preservation: The frontal branch of the facial nerve is meticulously preserved by adhering to anatomical planes.
• Combination: If necessary, upper/lower eyelid aesthetics can be performed in the same session, removing excess tissue while rejuvenating the eye area.
In some cases, endoscopic temporal lift can be applied with small incisions inside the hair. The choice of method depends on skin thickness, tissue elasticity, and degree of sagging.
Anesthesia and Duration
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia or sedation + local anesthesia
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours (may vary if combined procedures are performed)
• Same-Day Discharge: Most patients can return home the same day.
Recovery Process
• Pain/Swelling/Bruising: Most prominent in the first 48–72 hours; reduced with cold application and keeping the head elevated.
• Sutures: Usually removed on day 5–7.
• Social Life: Light activities in 5–7 days; makeup allowed after the 2nd week.
• Sports: Intense exercise other than walking is postponed for 3–4 weeks.
• Final Results: Most swelling resolves in 2–3 weeks; final shape becomes evident in 2–3 months.
Scars and Permanence
• Incisions are hidden within the hairline or aligned with it; scars are usually not noticeable.
• Results are long-lasting depending on skin quality, facial expressions, and lifestyle; however, the natural aging process continues.
Possible Risks and Complications
• Bleeding, hematoma, infection
• Temporary sensory changes, swelling, and bruising
• Asymmetry or excessive/insufficient lift
• Temporary eyebrow movement restriction due to the frontal branch of the facial nerve (very rare and usually temporary)
• Scar issues (rare and dependent on individual healing characteristics)
Proper surgical planning and respect for anatomical layers significantly reduce these risks.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A forehead lift is a broader procedure that involves the entire forehead region and affects the overall position of the eyebrows. Temporal lift, however, is a more localized intervention, targeting the drooping of the outer part of the eyebrow (lateral brow), skin accumulation, and sagging around the eye corners. Therefore, while forehead lift elevates the whole forehead line including wrinkles and central brows, temporal lift mainly focuses on the eye corners and temple line. Both techniques are effective in facial rejuvenation, but their application areas and outcomes differ. The most suitable procedure is determined according to the patient’s facial analysis and needs.
Botox and filler applications are non-surgical, quick, and temporary solutions. Botox reduces wrinkles by limiting muscle movement, while fillers restore lost volume and support facial contours. However, their effect is limited, usually lasting only a few months. Temporal lift, on the other hand, is a surgical method that repositions sagging tissues upward permanently within anatomical planes. In short, Botox and fillers provide superficial and temporary effects, whereas temporal lift offers long-term and more natural rejuvenation by repositioning deeper tissues. Therefore, temporal lift is a suitable alternative for those who want more lasting results.
The most important consideration when planning a temporal lift is natural appearance. To avoid creating an unnatural, surprised, or artificial look, the amount of lift at the outer brow is individually determined. The surgeon carefully adjusts the vector and amount of elevation based on the patient’s facial features, expressions, and skin structure. Thus, the eyebrows are lifted only as much as needed to create a fresher and more dynamic look. The goal is to rejuvenate and refresh the expression while preserving naturalness. Therefore, eyebrows do not appear overly lifted; instead, a balanced and aesthetic appearance is achieved.
Yes, temporal lift can be combined with eyelid surgery (upper or lower blepharoplasty) in the same session. This combination provides a more comprehensive correction of aging signs around the eyes. While temporal lift elevates the outer brow and eye corner, eyelid surgery removes excess skin, fat, and muscle tissue to make the eye area smoother and more youthful. This way, not only sagging but also eyelid drooping, puffiness, and skin redundancy are corrected. Performing these procedures together provides a more holistic and balanced rejuvenation.
The recovery process varies from person to person, but for those with desk jobs, returning to work is usually possible within 5–7 days. During this time, most bruising and swelling subside, allowing the patient to adapt more comfortably to social life. For physically demanding jobs, the recovery may take longer; waiting 2–3 weeks is safer for heavy lifting, bending, or intense activities. Sports and vigorous exercises are usually recommended after 3–4 weeks. Following the surgeon’s instructions during this period helps speed up recovery and prevent complications.
About the Author
Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu
Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
This article was prepared by Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu in light of scientific sources and clinical experience. You can contact us for more information or to book an appointment.
Contact: iletisim@osmankelahmetoglu.com – 0 (533) 351 76 37