What Is A Brow Lift Surgery?

Individuals with droopy brows may notice a visible change in their brow angle, such as a lower or less prominent arch that gives off a frowning impression or, in some cases, brow asymmetry. Furthermore, drooping of brows can also cause sagging eyelids, making one look tired even when well-rested.

A brow lift surgery is a procedure to correct droopy brows. It improves the appearance of the forehead, alters the eyebrow angle, and addresses both functional and aesthetic issues by raising the soft tissue and skin of the forehead and brow.

Who Is Suitable For A Brow Lift Surgery?

A brow lift surgery is suitable for individuals who:

  • Have drooping eyebrows that result in smaller-looking eyes, potentially affecting eyesight.
  • Want to brighten tired-looking eyes or improve a frustrated appearance.
  • Wish to correct droopy eyelids caused by aging, sagging skin, or connective tissue disorders without altering double eyelids.
  • Are experiencing eye irritation caused by the eyelashes rubbing against the eyes.
  • Have hidden double eyelid creases due to sagging skin.
  • Want to correct brow asymmetry.

Types of Brow Lift Surgery

Brow lift procedures can vary based on age, medical conditions, the degree of skin sagging, and the desired results. The surgeon will choose the specific technique and location of the incisions based on these factors. Brow lift surgery is categorized into two types based on the location of the incisions.

Upper Brow Lift

This technique is suitable for patients who wish to lift or alter the arch of the eyebrow and where there is little space between the eye and the brows. In such cases, further reduction of height would not favor the aesthetic outcome. The lifting is done through an incision above the eyebrow. During this process, excess skin is removed, and the brow arch is positioned upwards.

Surgery Procedure Steps for Upper Brow Lift

  • The surgeon plans the location of the incision and section required for removal, considering the eye shape, height of the eyebrows, and amount of excess skin and soft tissue on the eyelid.
  • The extra bulk of muscles, sagging skin, and excess fats are removed.
  • To create a lifting effect, the remaining tissue and skin are pinned upwards.
  • The incision is closed neatly under the eyebrow.

Sub-Brow Lift

In this procedure, a small incision is made below the brow. It is suitable for patients with ample space between the eye and eyebrow. This procedure can bring satisfactory results for individuals with the drooping of the outer corner of the eye and also lift droopy eyelids, exposing hidden double eyelid creases and relieving eye irritation caused by eyelashes rubbing against the eye.

Surgery Procedure Steps for Sub-Brow Lift

  • The first step is the assessment of eye structure, the height of the eyebrows, and the amount of excess skin, muscle, and fatty tissue on the eyelid.
  • The surgeon marks the section that needs to be removed. An incision is made below the eyebrow, and excess skin and muscles are removed.
  • The incision is later closed neatly under the eyebrow.

Benefits of Brow Lift Surgery

  • Removal of excess skin opens up the eye area, resulting in a more alert appearance.
  • Improves the appearance of droopy eyelids.
  • Reduces wrinkles and lines around the eyes.
  • Eliminates vision obstruction due to excessive hooding of upper eyelids.
  • Evens out asymmetrical brow positions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will I Have a Surprised Look After My Brow Lift?

A surprised look can happen if the brow is lifted too high or the inner brow is elevated more than the outer one. The outer brow should always remain higher to avoid this result.

Can Asymmetric Eyes or Eyebrows Be Fixed?

Most people have some level of asymmetry. Some brow asymmetries can be balanced with surgery.

How Long Does the Swelling Last?

Swelling peaks around 2-3 days after surgery and starts subsiding thereafter. Most swelling reduces within the first week, and full resolution may take up to 3 months.

How Soon Can I Go Back to Work?

The time to return to work varies by individual, but most can return in 10-14 days. Some return sooner and begin working from home a week after surgery.

When Can I Wear Makeup or Contact Lenses?

Makeup should be avoided for one week around the surgery site, and contact lenses are generally allowed after one week.

When Can I Resume Exercise?

Patients should avoid exercises that increase blood pressure for the first few weeks. Light walks are recommended right after surgery, but full workouts can resume after 3-4 weeks.

Are the Results Permanent?

While results are long-lasting, aging will continue, and touch-ups may be needed over time to maintain the best results.

Is the Scar Visible?

The scars are usually hidden in brow hair. Initially pink, they blend in with the natural skin tone over time.