A brow lift, while not designed to directly address the upper eyelids, can often improve eyelid contours. However, if you have more significant eyelid drooping, you may be happier with a blepharoplasty. Here, Dr. Katerina Gallus and Dr. Janet Chao, the plastic surgeons La Jolla patients trust for harmonious, beautifully natural results, clarify how a brow lift compares to eyelid surgery and whether it might be the right choice for you.
Brow lift vs. blepharoplasty
Both procedures are highly effective in rejuvenating the upper face, but they target different areas and address distinct concerns:
- A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, primarily focuses on the forehead and brow line to elevate the eyebrows, smooth forehead wrinkles, and reduce frown lines between the brows (also called the 11s).
- A blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift, targets the eyelids themselves, both upper and lower, to remove excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle to smooth eyelid skin.
It is critical that you choose a facial plastic surgeon who can correctly identify the cause of your eyelid concerns and recommend the right treatment plan to achieve superior results.
Can a brow lift improve eyelid appearance?
Yes, a brow lift can indirectly improve the appearance of your upper eyelids—lower eyelids will not be noticeably altered as a result of a brow lift. During the procedure, we raise the brow line to a normal anatomic position at the level of the upper eye socket bone. As the eyebrows are lifted, the skin underneath the eyebrows is also slightly raised, which can reduce the heaviness that contributes to drooping eyelids or “hooded eyes.”
Additionally, we typically adjust the fat pad above the eyebrow called the retro-orbicularis oculus fat (ROOF) during a brow lift. When this fat pad slips down from the eyebrow area, it can weigh down the delicate eyelid skin, causing a droopy, aged appearance. Once this particular fat pad is repositioned, the upper eyelids naturally smooth out.
“Without hesitation, I would recommend the procedure with Dr. Chao to anyone who wants to take 10/15 years off the appearance of their face. The downtime and pain was minimal. I had no bruising and very slight swelling. My face looks completely natural, but younger, better, and less aged and tired. I love seeing my new more youthful face in the mirror. My 60-year-old face is now my face when I was in my mid 40s.”
—5-star Google review
When is an eyelid lift the better choice?
An eyelid lift will best achieve your aesthetic goals if:
- You have excess skin or fat in the eyelids that makes you look tired, older, or interferes with your vision.
- You’re seeking a more defined and youthful eye appearance without altering the brow position.
- You want to specifically target puffiness or bags under your eyes.
Combining a brow lift with an eyelid lift
Sometimes, both procedures are needed to achieve the level of rejuvenation you desire. This combination can enhance facial symmetry, reduce multiple signs of aging, and refresh the entire upper third of your face for results that surgery on one area alone might not achieve.
Our surgeons carefully evaluate your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable procedure or combination of treatments so you love your results.
Let us help you decide the right approach for your look
If you’re considering a brow lift, eyelid lift, or both, schedule a consultation with one of our female plastic surgeons in San Diego today. Dr. Katerina Gallus and Dr. Janet Chao have the surgical expertise and experience to ensure you receive a personalized treatment plan that delivers the results you expect. Please call our La Jolla plastic surgery practice at 858-224-2281 or fill out our online form to book your consultation!
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