Brow Lift Surgery

The level, shape, and harmony of eyebrows with the upper eyelids are crucial determinants of our facial expression. A low eyebrow level and excessive downward tilt of the outer edges can give a person a tired and unhappy appearance. In individuals with excessively low eyebrow levels, significant sagging and increased drooping on the upper eyelids can also affect the field of vision. In such cases, upper eyelid surgeries performed without brow lifting may lead to cosmetically undesired outcomes. The level, shape, and density of eyebrows are predominantly determined at birth but can further shift downwards with age due to gravitational effects on sub-brow fat and connective tissues. Additionally, eyebrow levels may decrease due to trauma to the eyebrow area or facial paralysis.

Brow lift surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia depending on the technique. Various techniques are available, including indirect methods, direct methods, or endoscopic methods.

In the indirect brow lift technique, it is performed through the same incision while performing upper eyelid blepharoplasty. This method only allows surgery on the lateral part of the eyebrow and provides a limited change in eyebrow height.

The direct brow lift technique involves making an incision just above the upper border of the eyebrow, allowing regional or complete intervention along the eyebrow. Healing occurs with a fine scar along the incision line just above the eyebrow border. Postoperatively, scar creams, silicone tapes, or injection methods can be used to achieve acceptable long-term results without visible scars.

The endoscopic brow lift technique involves entering through small incisions within the hairline for brow lifting and, if desired, forehead lifting. Since the incision is made within the hairline, no visible scar remains. It is generally performed under general anesthesia, and a bandage is applied to the forehead area postoperatively.

As with any surgical procedure, bruising and swelling are expected in surgical areas. Ice application is recommended for the first 72 hours. Avoiding water contact with the wound site is advised for 4-5 days, and stitches are removed on days 7-10.

Non-Surgical Brow Lift Methods

• Botulinum toxin applications
• Device-assisted methods
• Dermal filler applications
• Thread lift methods

Proper patient selection is crucial in these methods. These techniques may be inadequate for patients who do not require surgery or expect permanent effects.