Pre-Trichial Brow Lift

A pretrichial brow lift is a surgical procedure designed to elevate the eyebrows and reduce sagging or drooping above the eyelids. This technique is called ‘pretrichial’ because the incision is made along the hairline (trichion is the Greek term for hairline), allowing the resulting scar to be hidden within the natural hair growth. The goal is to improve the appearance of the forehead and upper one third of the face and create a more youthful, refreshed appearance. This type of lift can also partially improve the appearance of vertical glabellar wrinkles or frown lines between the eyebrows.

During a pre-trichial brow lift, an incision is made at or just behind the hairline, preserving the hair follicles along the incision line. Ligamentous structures are released to mobilize the brows. A strip of skin and deeper tissue is then removed from the area in front of the hairline. The brows are then raised, and the incision is closed with a combination of sutures (in front of the hairline) and staples (at the outer part of the incision behind the temporal hairline).

The advantage of this technique is that it allows Dr. Moore to elevate the eyebrows and remove any excess skin while also advancing the hairline slightly, if desired. By placing the incision at the hairline, the resulting scar is concealed within (or just in front of) the natural hairline, making it less noticeable.

As with any surgical procedure, a pretrichial brow lift has potential risks and considerations.  Most patients experience numbness along and behind the incision line, and this can be permanent. Hair loss along the incision line, infection, and scarring are also risks.

The choice of whether to have a pretrichial brow lift or another type of brow lift depends on various factors, including the patient’s specific concerns, brow anatomy, and the desired aesthetic outcome. Pretrichial brow lifting is beneficial when patients require both brow elevation and adjustment of the frontal hairline.

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.