Eyebrow Lift

An eyebrow lift, also called a brow lift, is a surgical procedure that elevates and repositions the eyebrows to create a more youthful and balanced appearance of the upper face. It is primarily performed to correct brow ptosis (drooping eyebrows), which can make the upper eyelids appear heavy and contribute to a tired or aged appearance.

As we age, the eyebrows may gradually descend due to changes in the skin, soft tissues, and supporting structures of the forehead. This can reduce the distance between the eyebrow and upper eyelid and may create excess skin or heaviness around the upper eyelids.

An eyebrow lift is designed to restore the position and shape of the eyebrows while preserving natural facial expression. The amount and direction of brow elevation are carefully planned according to the patient's facial anatomy, brow position, forehead height, and upper eyelid appearance. The goal is not simply to raise the eyebrows, but to achieve a natural and harmonious relationship between the eyebrows, forehead, and upper eyelids.

An ideal candidate for an eyebrow lift (brow lift) is someone with drooping or low-set eyebrows, forehead heaviness, or an aged appearance of the upper face caused by brow descent. An eyebrow lift may be appropriate for patients who have:

• Brow ptosis or drooping eyebrows
• A low or heavy brow position that makes the upper eyelids appear hooded
• Sagging or heavy upper eyelids that persist despite having previously undergone Upper Blepharoplasty
• Loss of the natural shape or arch of the eyebrows
• Forehead skin laxity associated with brow descent
• Asymmetry between the eyebrows
• A tired, heavy, or aged appearance caused by a low brow position

An eyebrow lift is particularly useful when brow descent is contributing to upper-eyelid heaviness, especially when excess eyelid skin is no longer the primary issue. During consultation, I assess the brow position, forehead anatomy, upper eyelids, and overall facial proportions to determine whether an eyebrow lift alone or in combination with Upper Blepharoplasty would provide the most appropriate result.

Before Surgery

Before an eyebrow lift, I assess the position and shape of the eyebrows, forehead anatomy, upper eyelids, hairline, and overall facial proportions. I determine whether upper-eyelid heaviness is primarily caused by brow descent, excess forehead skin, excess eyelid skin, or a combination of these factors.

Careful preoperative measurements and markings are then performed to determine the appropriate amount and direction of brow elevation, with the goal of achieving natural brow position, facial symmetry, and harmonious proportions.

An eyebrow lift is typically performed under local anesthesia or appropriate anesthesia based on the surgical plan. The choice depends on the technique being used, the extent of surgery, whether another procedure is performed at the same time, and the patient's individual medical considerations.

I prefer a Direct Eyebrow Lift, in which the incision is placed along the upper border of the eyebrow. Through this incision, excess skin above the eyebrow is carefully removed, allowing the brow to be elevated and repositioned to improve its height, shape, and symmetry.

The amount and direction of brow elevation are individualized according to the patient's brow position, forehead anatomy, upper-eyelid appearance, and overall facial proportions. The goal is not simply to raise the eyebrows, but to restore a natural brow position and shape while maintaining a balanced relationship between the eyebrows and upper eyelids.

A Direct Eyebrow Lift can be particularly useful when brow descent contributes to upper-eyelid hooding or heaviness. It may also be considered in patients who continue to have sagging or heavy upper eyelids despite previous Upper Blepharoplasty, when further removal of eyelid skin may not address the underlying problem.

The incision is then carefully closed with minimal tension to promote proper healing and allow the scar along the upper eyebrow to mature as inconspicuously as possible.

• Post-op Medications: I usually prescribe oral antibiotics and pain relievers after surgery. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help reduce swelling and bruising during the early recovery period.
• Suture Removal: Sutures are usually removed after 6–7 days, depending on the healing of the incision.
• Downtime: Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the eyebrows and upper eyelids are expected after a Direct Eyebrow Lift. Swelling is usually most noticeable during the first few days and gradually improves over the following weeks. Cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help reduce swelling. Many patients can return to work within approximately 7–14 days, depending on the amount of swelling and bruising and the nature of their work.
• Scarring: The incision is placed along the upper border of the eyebrow. The scar may initially appear visible, pink, or firm during the first few months but gradually softens and fades as it matures. Scar maturation generally continues over 6–12 months.
• Results: The eyebrows may initially appear higher than the final position because of postoperative swelling and tissue tightness. As swelling subsides and the tissues settle, the brow position, shape, and relationship with the upper eyelids become more natural. The result continues to refine over several months, with scar and tissue maturation continuing for up to a year. Recovery varies from patient to patient and may be influenced by the amount of skin removed, individual healing, previous eyelid surgery, and whether another procedure is performed at the same time.

A Direct Eyebrow Lift is generally a safe procedure, but as with any surgery, complications can occur. Most postoperative swelling, bruising, and tightness are temporary and improve as the tissues heal.

Possible complications include:

• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection
• Temporary numbness or altered sensation
• Visible or unfavorable scarring:
• Brow asymmetry
• Overcorrection or undercorrection

Careful preoperative assessment, precise surgical technique, and appropriate postoperative care help minimize these risks. I discuss the potential complications and expected recovery with each patient before surgery.

The cost of a Direct Eyebrow Lift in the Philippines varies depending on the surgical setting, anesthesia, complexity of the procedure, and whether it is performed together with another facial procedure.

Cost of Direct Eyebrow Lift for uncomplicated cases 

Direct Eyebrow Lift Under Local Anesthesia: P45,000*

     *When performed in the clinic under local anesthesia. Postoperative medications are not included.

Direct Eyebrow Lift Under Sedation in a Hospital: P120,000-160,000*

    *Hospital-based surgery with a board-certified anesthesiologist. This estimate excludes preoperative laboratory 

      tests, medical clearance, and postoperative medications.

The final cost may vary depending on the patient's anatomy, the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed, the surgical setting, and the anesthesia required. Additional fees may apply when the Direct Eyebrow Lift is combined with procedures such as Upper Blepharoplasty or Lower Blepharoplasty.

These prices are provided as a general guide and may change depending on the individual surgical plan and facilities or services required. A final quotation is provided after consultation and treatment planning.

Q: Will my brows look too arched or surprised?
A: You may look surprised, with the eyebrows too arched usually for a few weeks post-op due to the swelling.  Once the swelling subsides and gravity sets in, the eyebrows will look more natural.

Q: Where are the scars placed?
A: Incisions are hidden in the hairline of the eyebrow or  temple, making scars camouflaged.  The scar is visible for 1-3 months and will gradually fade over 6-12 months.

Q: Can it be combined with other procedures?
A: Yes. A brow lift is commonly done with upper blepharoplasty or a facelift for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.