BROWLIFT
Approached with care and restraint
Changes in the brow and forehead often occur gradually, driven by shifts in skin quality, soft-tissue support, and underlying muscle activity. Over time, these changes can affect brow position, forehead tension, and how open or rested the eyes appear.
Our approach to brow lift surgery, also referred to as a forehead reset, is not about lifting the face into a fixed or surprised expression. It is about rebalancing position and tension so the upper face feels lighter, calmer, and more aligned with the rest of the features, thoughtfully and with long-term outcomes in mind.
Who may consider a brow lift/forehead reset
This procedure may be appropriate for individuals who:
Notice heaviness or descent of the brows over time
Feel the upper face appears tense, tired, or closed-off
Experience brow position that contributes to eyelid heaviness
Are seeking a subtle adjustment rather than visible lifting
Value natural expression and restraint
A brow lift/forehead reset is not intended for those seeking exaggerated arching, dramatic elevation, or trend-driven facial changes.
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Our surgical approach
Each brow lift plan is developed as a surgical strategy, not a standardized technique.
Careful assessment of brow position, forehead anatomy, muscle dynamics, and overall facial balance guides every recommendation. In many cases, limited repositioning or support provides meaningful improvement. Overcorrection and excessive elevation are intentionally avoided.
The objective is balance and ease, allowing the brow to sit in a position that supports expression rather than overpowering it.
What this procedure may address
Brow lift/forehead reset surgery may help address:
Descent or heaviness of the brows
Forehead tension or imbalance
Contribution of brow position to upper eyelid heaviness
Disruption in the balance between the upper face and eyes
Every surgical plan is individualized and based on anatomy rather than age or aesthetic trends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why brow lifts are not about height alone
When patients describe concerns about their brows, they often say they look “low,” “heavy,” or “tired.” What many do not realize is that brow aging is not only about where the brow sits but also about how it is shaped across the face.
Confusing brow position with brow shape is one of the most common reasons why brow lift surgery appears unnatural. Dr. Smith approaches brow surgery with restraint and precision.
Brow position: where the brow sits
Brow position refers to the vertical placement of the brow relative to the eye and forehead.
As we age:
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Soft tissues descend
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Support structures weaken
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The brow may sit lower on the orbital rim
This descent can contribute to:
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Upper eyelid heaviness
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A tired or stern appearance
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Visual obstruction in some cases
Correcting position involves restoring the brow to its natural resting height rather than elevating it excessively.
Brow shape: how the brow moves across the face
Brow shape refers to the contour of the brow from the inner (medial) portion to the outer (lateral) tail.
Key considerations include:
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The height of the brow tail relative to the inner brow
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The presence or absence of an arch
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Symmetry between sides
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Harmony with eye shape and facial structure
Aging often causes the outer brow to descend more than the inner brow, altering the brow's shape even when overall height appears acceptable.
Why lifting height alone causes problems
When brow lift surgery focuses only on elevation:
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The brow may appear over-arched
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The inner brow can look surprised
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Facial expression may change unnaturally
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Gender-specific features may be distorted
Height without shape control often looks overdone and surgical.
Shape-driven correction
Dr. Smith plans brow lift surgery with shape as the primary guide.
This includes:
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Selective support of the lateral brow
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Preservation of natural brow contours
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Avoidance of uniform elevation
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Respect for asymmetry that contributes to natural appearance
The goal is balance, not exaggeration.
Male vs female brow considerations
Brow shape differs naturally between men and women.
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Male brows typically sit lower and flatter
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Female brows often have a gentle lateral elevation
Applying the wrong shape to the wrong face can permanently alter identity.
Dr. Smith tailors brow positioning to the individual.
Expression matters
Brows play a central role in expression.
Overcorrecting position or shape can:
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Create a surprised or angry resting face
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Limit natural movement
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Alter how emotions are perceived
Preserving expression is a priority in brow surgery.
Final perspective
A successful brow lift is not measured by how high the brow is lifted, but by how naturally it sits and moves afterward.
By distinguishing between brow position and brow shape, Dr. Smith achieves brow lift results that appear rested, balanced, and expressive, without signaling surgery.
A private consultation provides an opportunity to carefully assess brow anatomy and determine whether position correction, shape refinement, or restraint is most appropriate.
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When the eyelids aren’t the real problem
Heaviness of the upper eyelids is one of the most common concerns patients bring to consultation. What many don’t realize is that excess eyelid skin is often a symptom, not the source of the problem.
Distinguishing between brow descent and true eyelid aging is critical. Treating the wrong structure can lead to short-lived or unnatural results.
Dr. Smith approaches this decision diagnostically rather than cosmetically.
What upper eyelid surgery actually treats
Upper eyelid surgery (upper blepharoplasty) is designed to address changes within the eyelid itself.
Upper blepharoplasty might correct:
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Excess or lax eyelid skin
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Bulging fat within the lid
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Heaviness is limited to the eyelid margin
Upper blepharoplasty does not reposition the brow.
If brow descent is the primary issue, eyelid surgery alone may worsen the imbalance.
What a brow lift actually treats
A brow lift addresses the descent of the brow and forehead structures.
Browlifting may correct:
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Drooping of the outer brow
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Compression of the upper eyelid from above
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A tired, stern, or heavy appearance
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Loss of natural brow shape
Restoring the brow position often makes the eyelid appear lighter without removing eyelid skin.
Why the distinction matters
Treating eyelid heaviness with eyelid surgery alone when the brow is low can:
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Over-remove eyelid skin
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Distort eyelid shape
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Create difficulty closing the eyes
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Lead to a hollow or tight appearance
This is one of the most common causes of revision eyelid surgery.
Signs of brow descent may be the real issue
Brow descent may be contributing if:
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Heaviness is worse on the outer eyelid
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The brow sits low or flat at rest
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Lifting the brow manually improves eyelid appearance
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Eyelid skin feels tight rather than redundant
In these cases, a brow lift rather than eyelid surgery may be the appropriate first step.
When eyelid surgery alone may be appropriate
Upper eyelid surgery may be sufficient when:
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Brow position is stable
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Excess skin is clearly localized to the eyelid
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There is no significant lateral brow descent
For the right patient, eyelid surgery can be effective and conservative.
Combined approaches
In some cases, both brow lift and upper eyelid surgery are appropriate.
This may be considered when:
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Brow descent and eyelid skin excess coexist
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A brow lift alone would not address eyelid redundancy
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Balanced correction is required
Combination surgery is planned carefully to preserve expression and avoid overcorrection.
Expression and identity matter
Both the brow and eyelids play a central role in facial expression.
Dr. Smith prioritizes:
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Preserving natural eye shape
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Avoiding a surprised or hollow look
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Maintaining expressive movement
The goal is restoration, not alteration of identity.
Final perspective
Upper eyelid surgery and brow lift surgery solve different structural problems.
Choosing the appropriate procedure or combination requires careful evaluation of brow position, eyelid anatomy, and facial balance.
A private consultation provides the opportunity to determine which structure is contributing most to your concern and to plan treatment thoughtfully, without pressure or default solutions.
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Consultation and Preparing for Surgery
During your consultation be prepared to discuss:
Your goals for your appearance
Your complete medical history
Your current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use
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Your surgeon will also:
Evaluate your general health status and any risk factors
Discuss your options
Examine and measure different parts of your face
Take photographs
Recommend a course of treatment
Discuss likely outcomes of brow lift surgery and any potential complications
Be sure to ask Dr. Smith questions. It's very important to understand all aspects of your procedure. It's natural to feel some anxiety, whether it's excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of pre-treatment stress. Don't be shy about discussing these feelings with Dr. Smith.
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Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:
Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
Stop smoking
Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other supplements as they can increase bleeding
Brow lift surgery should be performed in an accredited surgical facility, licensed ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital. You will need to arrange for another adult to drive you to and from surgery, and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.
Eyelid surgery may be performed in an accredited office-based surgical facility, outpatient or licensed ambulatory surgical center, or in a hospital. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.
Be sure to ask questions. It's very important to ask Dr. Smith questions about your eyelid surgery. It's natural to feel some anxiety, whether it's excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don't be shy about discussing these feelings with Dr. Smith.
Recovery and considerations
All surgery involves healing, swelling, and temporary changes in sensation.
Incisions are placed thoughtfully and discreetly based on anatomy and surgical goals. Patients are guided through recovery with clear expectations, attentive follow-up, and careful support.
Recovery timelines and activity guidance are discussed in detail during consultation.
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About results
Results from a brow lift/forehead reset are intended to be subtle, balanced, and enduring.
The goal is not to make the forehead or brows appear lifted, but to restore calm and openness to the upper face so that the expression feels natural and unforced.
A considered surgical experience
From consultation through recovery, care is delivered in a calm, private, and unhurried environment.
Patients are supported with honest guidance, thoughtful planning, and consistent follow-up, without pressure to proceed.
Moving forward
Choosing upper facial surgery is a personal, well-considered decision.
A private consultation provides the time and space to explore whether a brow lift or forehead reset is appropriate for you, and to discuss options carefully and without obligation.
The Procedure
You will be given medication so that you will be comfortable during the surgical procedures. Dr. Smith will suggest either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Brow lifts can be performed in different ways.
Some surgeons prefer using an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera on the end) and special instruments placed through small incisions made within the hairline. This allows the tissue and muscle beneath the skin to be adjusted, correcting the source of visible creases and furrows in the forehead.
Dr. Smith usually prefers to perform a browlift through what is called a "coronal incision" or a "hairline incision" The coronal incision is created from ear to ear across the top of the head, within the hair-bearing skin. The hairline incision is located at the junction of the forehead and the hair-bearing skin.
The forehead skin is then lifted and any muscle adjustment can be made under direct visualization. The resulting scar from a coronal brow lift is well concealed within the hair.
For women with very high foreheads, an incision just at the anterior hairline may be recommended. In this way the brow can be lifted without altering the height of the front hairline.
Results appear gradually as swelling and bruising subside to reveal smoother forehead skin and a more youthful, rested appearance.
Risks and Safety
The decision to have brow lift surgery is extremely personal. You will have to decide if the surgery will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks and potential complications.
The risks include:
Anesthesia risks
Bleeding
Loss of hair around the incisions
Elevated hairline
Eye irritation or dryness
Facial asymmetry
Facial nerve injury with weakness or paralysis
Fluid accumulation
Infection
Numbness or other changes in skin sensation or intense itching
Pain, which may persist
Poor wound healing
Possibility of revision surgery
Skin discoloration and swelling
Skin loss
Unfavorable scarring
Rare risk of blood clots
These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with Dr. Smith.
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Cost
Prices for brow lift procedures can vary. The cost will be based on the type of procedure required to address your specific needs. Dr. Smith does offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask.
You will be charged one fee and this will include:
Anesthesia fees
Hospital or surgical facility costs
Medical tests (if required)
Post-surgery garments (if required)
Surgeon's fee
Results
The results of your brow lift surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve and incision lines will fade. Satisfaction with your new image should continue to grow as you recover from surgery. The final results of your surgery will appear over the next few months.
Although good results are expected from your procedure, there is no guarantee.
Life-long sun protection will help to maintain your rejuvenated appearance by minimizing sun damage. A healthy lifestyle will also help extend the results of your rejuvenated, more youthful appearance.
Following Dr. Smith’s instructions is essential to the success of your surgery. It's important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Dr. Smith will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.
Dr. Smith
Your satisfaction involves more than a fee. When choosing a plastic surgeon for Browlift, remember that the surgeon's experience and your comfort with him or her is just as important as the final cost of the surgery.
Plastic surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a Plastic Surgeon you can trust. Plastic Surgeons such as Dr. Smith, certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada meet rigorous standards:
Board certification by Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®
Completed five years of surgical training following medical school
Pass comprehensive oral and written exams
Complete continuing medical education, including patient safety
Perform surgery in accredited hospitals and surgical facilities
Following Dr. Smith’s Plastic Surgery residency, he completed an extra year of training, completing two additional clinical Fellowships to further his expertise in the field of Plastic Surgery. Please see his biography for more details.
Do not be confused by other official sounding boards and certifications. Be sure to choose a highly trained plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
This procedural information is intended strictly for educational purposes. Only models are depicted in these procedural information pages. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough, in-person consultation with Dr. Smith.
CONTACT DR. SMITH
Dr. Smith is located in Ottawa's West End. Our office features ground-level entry and offers abundant parking. Over 500 free parking spots are available.
For Ottawa appointment inquiries, please use the form.
Real Stories. Real Transformations.
Rhinoplasty 5.0/5 — May 12, 2022 I highly recommend Dr. Smith for anyone considering a rhinoplasty. I am currently 8 weeks post op and I'm thrilled with my results so far. I have nothing but good things to say about Dr. Smith and his team at The Ottawa Clinic. Throughout the entire process, Dr. Smith has been compassionate, genuine and so attentive. He is very easy to talk to and listens patiently to my questions and concerns. He has always been on time, I've never felt rushed during appointments, and his Patient Care Coordinator, Sarah, is extremely pleasant to deal with. The recovery itself was relatively easy, although I was quite bruised and swollen. I experienced mild discomfort, but never felt any pain. The process was not as bad as I had anticipated - I only wish I had done it years ago!! I was looking for a very natural nose and my results are above and beyond what I had hoped for. Dr. Smith is a very skilled surgeon and I'm so thankful I found him. I can't recommend him enough!
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — August 18, 2025 Dr. Smith is absolutely amazing, he is the most skilled surgeon in Ottawa and along with that he also has great bedside manner. I met a few surgeons for consults before I met Dr. Smith, for my breast augmentation. None of them were as thorough, knowledgable, kind, or positive as he was. From our first consult I knew I wanted him to be my surgeon. His team is also AMAZING. They are supportive, quick to respond and they help you through the whole process, before and after. I am almost 3 months post surgery now and I couldn’t have dreamed of better results. He gave me exactly what I wanted. I can’t recommend him enough, he is the best surgeon in Ottawa hands down!!!
Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty 5.0/5 — November 22, 2024 Dr. Smith is an excellent surgeon and has a great personality. I had blepharoplasty ( upper and lower eyelid) and after couple of weeks it looked really good and even better now after two months. Dr Smith is knowledgeable and well skilled and make you at ease and answers all your questions and concerns. Him and his team ( Sarah) and others are all professional and very pleasant. I highly recommend Dr Smith for any of your plastic surgery needs. I’m planning for another procedure next year.
Deep Plane Facelift 5.0/5 — April 4, 2025 Dr. Smith is an exceptional surgeon. physician. He and his staff are professional, kind and caring. He performed a deep plane face lift for me just two weeks ago and I am already so pleased with the results. 10 out of 10 rating for Dr. Smith.
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — December 21, 2023 Dr. Smith is an exceptional cosmetic surgeon who has truly transformed my life through his remarkable skill and expertise. I recently underwent a breast augmentation procedure under his care, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results. From the initial consultation to the post-operative care, Dr. Smith demonstrated the utmost professionalism and compassion. He took the time to thoroughly understand my goals and concerns, and he provided me with clear and realistic expectations for the procedure. His attention to detail and commitment to patient satisfaction were evident at every stage of the process. The surgical outcome exceeded my expectations in every way. Not only did Dr. Smith achieve beautiful, natural-looking results, but he also ensured that my safety and comfort were prioritized throughout the entire experience. His expertise and precision are truly unmatched. Furthermore, the entire staff of Dr. Smith provided outstanding support and care, making the entire experience seamless and comfortable. I felt well-informed, supported, and empowered throughout the entire journey, thanks to the exceptional team led by Dr. Smith. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Smith to anyone considering cosmetic surgery. His talent, integrity, and genuine concern for his patients make him a true standout in his field. I am immensely thankful for the beautiful results and the exceptional care I received, and I am confident that anyone who chooses Dr. Smith will be in the best of hands.
Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck 5.0/5 — October 22, 2021 I went to Dr. Sean Smith for an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), I cannot be more thrilled with the results! From start to finish, he and his team made me feel comfortable with no pressure at all. Both the clinic and the private surgery location are clean and modern with ample free parking. About me, after the delivery of two children, I felt self-conscious of my body especially the abdominal pouch that hung over my waist. Even through eating healthy and exercising there was no way that the extra skin and sag would ever disappear naturally. I hated the way that my belly would be exposed in yoga classes to the point that I didn’t want to go the gym or even bother to exercise anymore – it felt pointless. I felt ashamed of my body and would make excuses to my kids why I didn’t want to go swimming, and felt disgusted with my appearance in photos. I would hide myself in loose-fitting baggy clothing and that made me feel even worse emotionally. Cosmetic surgery always seemed to me about the rich and famous. Something for extremely vain people, and I thought it was a waste of money. I can assure you that this is not the case. I made the decision to book a consultation with The Ottawa Clinic and it has literally changed my perspective and mental health. Dr. Smith started the conversation by assessing my expectations and assuring me that I was a good candidate for the procedure. He was kind and patient with all of my questions and concerns. Sarah, the Patient Care Coordinator, was also extremely responsive and helpful for all of the administrative details regarding my procedure. The surgery itself was done at the Gatineau location, which is an easy drive from Ottawa. I was understandably nervous, but all of the supportive personnel made me feel more relaxed. Dr. Smith was excited and enthusiastic and again made me feel at ease and comfortable with the decision to proceed. It has now been over six weeks since the surgery and I am so happy! I feel confident in my body in a way that hasn’t happened since my early 20s. I look at myself and I feel good and am excited to start a new exercise regime. I can’t wait for the summer to go swimming with my kids – and not just any bathing suit it’s a bikini! In the meantime, I’m happy walking around the house in crop tops! This surgery isn’t about vanity, it’s about your mental health and feeling good about yourself. My only regret is that I waited so long to make that call to Dr. Smith. I highly recommend his services.
Rhinoplasty 5.0/5 — April 1, 2023 In the summer of 2022 I met with Dr.Smith to inquire about rhinoplasty surgery. I was curious and equally nervous about proceeding. It was not until I met with Dr.Smith that I felt confident and safe in my decision to proceed. Dr. Smith met my questions with his own questions so that there was a complete understanding of what I wanted to achieve from this surgery and what I should expect. And he exceeded my expectations!!! In November 2022 I had my surgery. I am three months post opt and I feel INCREDIBLE! And it looks INCREDIBLE! The bridge of my nose is smooth, the tip is softer and of course my nose is smaller. And yet the change is some how subtle. Which is what I wanted . I still look like ME! This was a large concern of mine because I didn’t want to look like a different person. Or over done for that matter. The day my cast was removed I was reminded that I would not see the final results until a year but I was struck with joy when I seen my nose for the first time. There was swelling and a small scar but I could still clearly see what changes had been made and where my recovery was as headed. I am amazed. Truly a dream come true. I highly recommend Dr. Smith for any of your cosmetic needs. He is incredibly talented, professional and kind.
Mommy Makeover 5.0/5 — July 24, 2026 Choosing Dr. Sean Smith for my mommy makeover was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From my very first consultation, I knew I was in the right place. Dr. Smith was patient, honest, and took the time to understand exactly what I was hoping to achieve. He explained every part of the procedure thoroughly and made me feel comfortable and confident moving forward. My surgery included a tummy tuck, liposuction, and a breast lift with implants. Going into surgery, I expected the recovery to be difficult, but it turned out to be much easier than I had imagined. I experienced very little pain, had no complications whatsoever, and my healing process was smooth from beginning to end. The level of care I received before and after surgery was exceptional, and I always felt supported by Dr. Smith and his wonderful team. After losing 35 pounds, I had accomplished something I was incredibly proud of, but I still wasn’t happy with the changes my body had gone through. Dr. Smith helped me complete that journey. The results are beyond anything I had hoped for. My abdomen is beautifully contoured, my breasts look natural and balanced, and everything fits my body perfectly. What stands out most is Dr. Smith’s attention to detail. He doesn’t just perform surgery—he creates results that look elegant, natural, and personalized to each patient. His confidence, experience, and genuine care gave me complete peace of mind throughout the entire process. I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Smith and his entire team for making this such a positive experience. They exceeded my expectations in every way, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone considering cosmetic surgery. If I had to make the decision again, I would choose Dr. Smith without a second thought.
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — April 19, 2024 I had breast augmentation with Dr. Sean Smith, and I am extremely happy with the results. After 8 weeks post-surgery, I can confidently say he is professional and his work is beyond perfect. The pain level was minimal, only 2 out of 10, and my recovery took just 5 days before I was back to work. My breasts are symmetric, and I love the stitches—no scars or pigmentation issues. I highly recommend Dr. Smith for his exceptional skills and care!
Recovery After Surgery
When your procedure is completed, your forehead may be taped and your head may be loosely wrapped to minimize swelling and bruising. A thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin. You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow up with Dr. Smith. You should keep your head elevated and perform no vigorous physical activity for as long as your surgeon recommends. Do not use ice or heat on the operated area.
Be sure to ask Dr. Smith specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.
What medication will I need after surgery?
Will I have dressings/bandages?
When will they be removed?
Are stitches removed? When?
When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
When do I return for follow-up care?
Initial wound healing may take 10 to 14 days. Sutures or clips will be removed when it is appropriate. You should be ready to return to work and normal activity after two weeks.
Cosmetics can help camouflage any bruising. Even though you will look presentable to the public, you will find that the healing will continue for several weeks, as the swelling dissipates and incision lines refine and fade. It may take several months for your complete recovery.
Following your physician's instructions is essential to the success of your surgery. It's important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.