The Limited Incision Brow Lift

Before and after photographs of limited incision or endoscopic brow lift. She appears more rested and rejuvenated with natural results. Upper eyelid surgery was not performed between these before and after photos. The patient continues her Botox injections to maintain smooth forehead skin and to try to prevent wrinkles from forming.

A low brow bothers some patients who prefer a more elevated or arched brow. A low brow is considered more masculine. Various methods of brow grooming and makeup can help achieve a perfect brow. However, sometimes a trip to the plastic surgeon’s office is required for adequate brow lifting.

Brow vs. Bleph

A common confusion among plastic surgery patients is whether to perform upper eyelid surgery (i.e. blepharoplasty) and/or brow lift surgery. A brow lift elevates the forehead and eyebrows for more refreshed appearance. Blepharoplasty removes excess skin and tissue from the upper eyelid. Both procedures can help “open” the eye. We’ve reviewed brow lift vs. upper blepharoplasty in a previous post. An office evaluation and examination by a plastic surgeon can determine if a patent is a candidate for one procedure or combined procedures.

Limited Incision brow lift

Most plastic surgeons utilize the limited incision or endoscopic techniques of brow lifting, while the traditional brow lift is less commonly performed. The term endobrow and limited incision are sometimes used interchangeably among plastic surgeons. Other specific brow lift techniques are the direct and mid-forehead lifts, but these are performed much less frequently.

The limited incision brow lift is the preferred choice for many. – Houtan Chaboki, MD

A limited incision brow lift is a less invasive approach for cosmetic brow and forehead enhancement. Endoscopic brow lift, or endobrow, are alternatives terms for this type of brow surgery. Smaller incisions are utilized and are hidden within the hair, which is often not shaved during surgery. A video camera or endoscope may be used to visualize the brow area through these smaller incisions. This technique for brow lifts requires more advanced training by facial plastic surgeons and plastic surgeons. Benefits of the limited incision brow lift include shorter operative time, smaller incisions, much less scalp itching, lower risk of hair loss, and faster recovery.

Pink lines represent typical incisions for limited incision brow lifts, which are hidden within the hair. These photographs are before brow lift surgery.

Most plastic surgeons and patients generally prefer the limited incision method of cosmetic enhancement of the forehead and brow, which is applicable to most patients. However, each patient has specific cosmetic needs and particular facial anatomy, so endobrows may not be the ideal approach for everyone. For example, patients with a high hairline may require forehead reduction with hairline lowering along with brow lift procedure. Lastly, for those who don’t want any surgery, a Botox® brow lift may be an option for a more subtle, temporary brow lift as compared to surgery.

A brow lift can be performed in isolation or combined with other procedures. Eyelid surgery, facelift, and neck lift are other common cosmetic procedures that are performed at the same time as a brow lift.

Have you considered a brow or forehead lift? Speak with a plastic surgeon to help decide which brow lift method is appropriate for you.