Sub-brow Lifts Do They Work?

Question

Dear Doctors: Is a sub-brow lift appropriate for someone who has minimal to moderate drooping of the brows? It is where you cut directly below the brow or directly above it. 1) How long do the results last? and what are the risks? 2) Does it cause premature aging or lower the brows even more than they naturally are over time? Thank you for your consideration.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

I assume you are referring to a brow lift from below the eyebrows, done through eh upper eyelid crease. This in minimally effective and in most situations of limited longevity. A surgical brow lift (hairline) is likely going to give you the greatest longevity

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

"Sub-brow" lift is not a term that surgeons use to describe the different techniques in brow lifting. A "direct" brow lift is the technique with the incision is directly above the eyebrows, usually in a preexisting crease or wrinkle. It is a good technique in an older person with very deep wrinkles and a significant brow droop.

	There is an "brow lift" technique that is achieved through a well hidden eyelid crease incision. However, this does not adequately raise the eyelid, but rather stabilizes it. It can potentially give a very subtle lift, but I would not use it in someone that needs a significant brow elevation.

	A pretrichial [hairline] browlift can last ten years or longer, and in my opinion is the most effective and cosmetically pleasing approach, in a person with the appropriate hairline.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

To be honest I am not sure I understand what you would like performed. I perform at least 6 different types of brow lift/pexy procedures - coronal, pretrichial, endoscopic, temporal, direct, and internal brow pexy. Direct brow lift in deep wrinkle patients is one option and can be performed close to the brow in a subcutaneous fashion. An internal brow pexy may be another option. However, this prevents descent more so than produces significant lift.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

The best choice for the past 35 years since we invented it is the Irregular Trichophytic Forehead Lift. It is done thru the hairline and hair grows thru the scar so you will not see a scar. Also no hair is removed and the hairline is NOT raised.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Subcutaneous brow lift is a relatively simple operation. The incision can be varied depending on the anatomy and the desires of the patient. It can be performed with mild sedation and local anesthesia. The results are long-lasting. It does not accelerate aging of the brow. The risks are minimal.

Sub-brow Lifts Do They Work?

Answers (5)