Eyebrow lift / correction
Surgery performed to correct the misposition of the eyebrow or the tail of the eyebrow.
- Time between 1 and 1.5 hours
- Local anesthesia
- Outpatient surgery
- Recovery between 7 and 12 days
- Information consultation
- Assessment
- Preoperative phase
- Postoperative follow-up visits
- Emergency phone number, 24 hours
Frequently asked questions
What is an eyebrow lift?
Surgery performed to correct the eyebrow’s overall position or the most distal area, the tail of the eyebrow (eyebrow lifting). There are several types of procedures depending on your needs, and asymmetries can also be corrected.
It improves the appearance, but it does not eliminate “crow’s feet” or other wrinkles. It can be done on its own or together with other facial cosmetic surgeries, such as blepharoplasty, a cervicofacial facelift (MACS-lift).
Who is it for?
A drooping eyebrow gives an appearance of tiredness and sadness, even if we are truly well-rested and happy. It contributes to a heavy feeling in the upper eyelids.
In many cases, simply lifting the tail of the eyebrow is enough to create a more rested look and bring more brightness to the eye area.
Sometimes we see patients who, even though they previously had surgery on the upper eyelids, feel as if the problem has come back.
Who is the ideal candidate?
The ideal candidates for undergoing blepharoplasty are people who want an improvement—not absolute perfection—in their appearance. If you are in good overall health, have psychological stability, and have realistic expectations, you will be a good candidate.
Types of eyebrow lifts
- Eyebrow lift with direct cut over the eyebrow:
- Incision along the upper border of the eyebrow; the scar normally becomes imperceptible within a few months. Simple and quick procedure; helps correct asymmetries. It can be done on one side.
- Tail of the eyebrow lift at a distance:
- Incision 2 cm behind the hairline. It is a bit more complex, but it can be performed with local anesthesia.
Planning the surgery
In the first consultation, your vision and tear production will be assessed, as well as your overall health. You should tell your surgeon if you take any medication, if you smoke, and if you have any allergies to medicines. The techniques and type of anesthesia that will be used, where the surgery will take place, the risks, and the cost of the procedure will be explained to you. It is important to stop smoking at least one or two weeks before surgery. Also make sure that a family member or companion can take you home after the procedure and, if necessary, help you for a few days.
The surgery
Eyebrow lifts are performed in the operating room under local anesthesia. In the vast majority of cases, we do it in the operating room at Clínica de San Pío. If it is combined with other procedures or sedation is required, we will perform it at Hospital Mediterráneo. The procedure usually lasts about an hour or more when combined with other procedures. In the case of direct excision, the scar sits on the upper border of the eyebrow; and in the case of lifting the tail of the eyebrow, the incisions (about 5 cm) are made 2 cm behind the hairline.
What is the postoperative period like?
You will need to keep your head elevated for a few days after surgery and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising.
During the first two weeks, your plastic surgeon will closely monitor your progress. The stitches are removed at approximately 10 days. Swelling and bruising will gradually decrease until they disappear completely.
Scars may appear pink during the first few months. Over time, they will fade until they become a clear, almost imperceptible line.
Can I return to normal life after the procedure?
Most people return to work within a week; by then, you may apply makeup to help conceal bruising. You should have relative rest for one week and avoid strenuous activities for 3 weeks.
What risks does an eyebrow lift have?
Complications are uncommon and limited in duration. The most serious complication is paralysis of the frontal branch of the facial nerve. This would mean being unable to lift the eyebrow. It is a very rare complication, because the nerve is located in a lower plane than the surgical site. Minor complications that may occur after a tail of the eyebrow lift include temporary eyelid swelling and mild asymmetries during healing.
What will the results of an eyebrow lift look like?
The results of a tail of the eyebrow lift give a younger and more alert appearance. They are usually maintained over time and, in many cases, the results are permanent.