Lateral Brow Lift

A lateral brow lift, also known as a temporal brow lift or a mini brow lift, is a cosmetic outpatient procedure performed to elevate and rejuvenate the outer one-third of the eyebrows. This surgery is designed to address sagging or drooping of the outer eyebrows, which can contribute to an aged or tired appearance.

While it can have some effect on the upper eyelids and the adjacent temple area, it is not designed to address baggy eyelids or forehead wrinkles. A lateral brow lift is usually performed with upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery.

Some key benefits include:

• Elevating the outer portion of the eyebrow helps to improve the appearance of lateral hooding in the upper eyelid. In addition to being caused by redundant upper eyelid skin, descent of the outer brow also leads to hooding at the outer part of the eyelid. When a lateral brow lift is combined with an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, both causes off lateral hooding are addressed.
• Brow elevation creates a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance by opening the eye area and restoring a natural arch to the eyebrows.
• The outer eyebrows have a significant impact on the aesthetic of the eyes. A lateral lift can enhance the appearance of the eyes and provide a more awake and refreshed look.
• The procedure can help individuals feel more satisfied with their overall facial appearance. 

A lateral brow lift is usually performed with IV sedation and local anesthetic to keep the patient comfortable. During a lateral brow lift, an incision is typically made in the temple area, usually behind the hairline. Generally, men are not good candidates for a lateral brow lift, as their hairlines have receded (or will recede over time), and thus there is not a good place to hide the incision. Dr. Moore uses surgical instruments to release the ligaments that pull the eyebrows downward and lift the outer portion of the eyebrows to a higher position. This procedure targets the lateral, or outer brow, to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

The incisions used in a lateral brow lift are shorter than those used in central pre-trichial brow lifts and coronal brow lifts. Patients often report less bruising and a quicker recovery than those who have undergone more traditional brow lifts, where wider incisions spanning the forehead or scalp are used.

You can expect swelling and bruising around your forehead, eyes, and cheeks which usually resolves over the course of two or three weeks. Post-operative discomfort will be managed with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses. Most patients return to work after a week or two. Full results may not be apparent for up to three months. Dr. Moore will provide specific post-operative instructions regarding activities, skincare, and follow-up appointments.

At your consultation, Dr. Moore will review your medical history and perform a thorough evaluation of the forehead, brows, and eyes to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery. Based on your preferences and anatomy, Dr. Moore will recommend the surgical technique that he feels is most suitable to address your individual needs and achieve your desired result.  Patients who are in good health, do not smoke, are not prone to excessive scarring, and have no significant eye problems are typically good candidates. If Dr. Moore determines that you are a good candidate for surgery, he will review the risks and benefits of the procedure with you.

To determine if you are a good candidate for a lateral browlift or another brow lift procedure, give us a call to schedule a consult with Dr. Moore.