How to Correct Uneven Eyebrows Caused by Minor Bell's Palsy

Question

I recently visited my neurologist for a diff. problem & showed him my uneven eyebrows, something that has slowly worsened over time. He noted slight muscle weakness on the R side & asked if I hit my head. I responded, No. He said I have a "little Bell's Palsy" & not to worry about it. I asked him about permanent makeup to even up my brows. He was unable to give a definite answer due to uncertain prognosis. Any suggestions to make my brows more symmetrical?

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Your neurologist should not refer to asymmetric eyebrows as "Bell palsy" unless you have a history of such with some residual facial weakness. Eyebrow asymmetry is incredibly common and symmetric eyebrows are rare. Botox when performed properly can create significant improvement in the brow shape and position. I would not recommend permanent makeup as the downsides are significant if the procedure is not performed perfectly. Best. Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest that you move forward and consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon and your neurologist.
Best wishes,

John A. Standefer Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Uneven brows can occur with or without Bell's Palsy. In fact, uneven brows are much more common than perfectly even brows. There are many reasons for this including differences in the size of the different sides of the skull, how we pose, which side we sleep on, and even the strength of the muscles that move the brows, either up or down.Bell's Palsy is a nerve condition where the nerve that supplies the movement to most of the face can become inflamed or swollen and some or all of the muscles of facial expression quit working. While most people recover completely from Bell's Palsy, one or all of the muscles on that side of the face can be partially or completely paralyzed permanently. Hence the answer to your question would require a thorough evaluation and possibly photo review to see if it is Bell's Palsy that may recover, or one of the other causes that possibly could be corrected with a brow lift or, as you suggest permanent makeup. John Standefer MD

Damon B. Chandler, MD · Answer

Your question is excellent, but without relaxed non-smiling photographs and a photo with you raising both brows, it I cannot give a proper suggestion. It would be helpful to know your age and some medical history.  Bell's Palsy is only one reason eyebrows or the face may be asymmetric.  Sometimes surgery can be used, sometimes Botox/Xeomin, sometimes makeup, sometimes nothing at all. I would suggest seeing a board certified, fellowship-trained MD Oculoplastic Surgeon for an opinion.  This is the sort of evaluation I perform daily in my practice.  Best of luck in your search!

Jeffrey Marvel, MD · Answer

You may be able to correct the asymmetry with Botox injections.  Another possibility is a brow lift on the droopy side.  You would need a consultation to determine the best treatment option.

How to Correct Uneven Eyebrows Caused by Minor Bell's Palsy

Answers (7)

Answer: Can not assess without Photographs!

Answer: Can not assess without Photographs!

Answer: Botox or brow lift

Answer: Botox or brow lift

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Everything you need to know about Brow Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How to Correct Uneven Eyebrows Caused by Minor Bell's Palsy

Answers (7)

Answer: Can not assess without Photographs!

Answer: Can not assess without Photographs!

Answer: Botox or brow lift

Answer: Botox or brow lift

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brow Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.