Combining Eyelid and Brow Lift Surgery

March 13, 2018

As the brow often ages in conjunction with the eyelids, patients who exhibit signs of facial aging in the upper face frequently opt to combine the blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) procedure with a brow lift. Due to factors such as sun exposure, formation of facial expressions, genetics, and the natural aging process, the eyes and forehead typically age at an accelerated pace when compared to other facial features. Skin in the eyelids and brow starts to loosen and sag, eyebrows often droop to create the appearance of persistent fatigue, and horizontal forehead creases and “crow’s feet” around the corners of the eyes begin to develop. Together, these aesthetic concerns can compromise a youthful, well-rested facial appearance. While each surgery is designed to achieve different goals, undergoing both an eyelid lift and a brow lift simultaneously can provide far-reaching facial rejuvenation in one operation.

Eyelid surgery can be performed on the upper and/or lower eyelids depending on your needs. This procedure is designed to remove and tighten excess eyelid skin, smooth wrinkled skin around the eyes, and remove and/or reposition fatty deposits to correct the appearance of puffy or baggy eyelids. In contrast, brow lift surgery is focused on improving the forehead and brow position. The eyebrows are elevated to a more youthful and rejuvenated position, while lax forehead skin is tightened and horizontal forehead wrinkles are made smooth. The frown lines (‘eleven’ lines) are also improved with brow lift surgery.

While many individuals confuse an eyelid and brow lift because they seem to affect a similar region, they are actually quite different and achieve different goals. The eyelid surgery improves only the area of the upper/lower eyelids, and does not have an effect on the brow or forehead. Likewise, the brow lift only improves the brow position and lines/sagging of the forehead. However, the combination of both procedures can be the ultimate solution to achieve comprehensive aesthetic improvement with a single operation and recovery period. Dr. Tong will generally utilize the endoscopic brow lift technique, which uses special instrumentation and short incisions—thereby allowing for shorter scars and a shorter recovery period—when compared to a traditional brow lift. Some patients may benefit from a lateral brow lift, which is a smaller surgery that focuses on elevating the lateral brow only.

If you are unsure whether you are a candidate for a combined eyelid and brow lift procedure, Dr. Tong would be happy to help you determine the best option to achieve your goals during a consultation. Please don’t hesitate to contact our practice today for any questions you may have, or to book a consultation.