Hello, I am Dr. POPO, an expert in anti-aging cosmetic surgery and a plastic surgeon in Korea. As the average lifespan has significantly increased compared to the past, there is a growing trend of people seeking to maintain a youthful appearance. One of the areas where aging becomes most noticeable is the eyes. As aging progresses, the elasticity of the skin decreases, particularly around the eyes. The eyelids can droop, causing the eyes to appear smaller and giving a more tired or sad impression. Consequently, more people are considering “middle-aged eye surgery” such as a sub-brow lift to correct these issues.
1. Understanding the Sub-Brow Lift Procedure
One method of middle-aged eye surgery is the sub-brow lift, also known as a sub-brow blepharoplasty. This procedure involves making an incision along the lower edge of the eyebrow, lifting the drooping eyelid skin, removing the excess skin, and then suturing the incision. However, just because someone is middle-aged and has droopy eyelids does not mean that a sub-brow lift is always appropriate. In some cases, this surgery can actually make the eyes appear more droopy or give a more tired and depressed look, turning what was intended to be a “gain” into a “loss.”
2. Potential Drawbacks of the Procedure
So, when can it be detrimental? Typically, as people age, their eyelids droop, but sometimes both the eyelids and the eyebrows droop, narrowing the distance between the eyes and the eyebrows. In cases where both eyebrow ptosis (drooping) and eyelid drooping are present, a sub-brow lift can be harmful. This is because lifting only the drooping eyelid while the eyebrows are already close to the eyes can narrow the distance even further, making the eyes look more constricted and giving a harsher appearance. Therefore, it is crucial to have a precise diagnosis of the current state of the eyes by a specialist before proceeding with such surgery.
3. Alternative
For those with both a narrow eye-brow distance and drooping eyelids and eyebrows, a more appropriate surgical method might be the “forehead-brow lift.” This procedure is a type of endoscopic forehead lift that lifts the forehead, eyebrows, and eyelids simultaneously. Unlike the sub-brow lift, which involves an incision around the eyebrow, the forehead-brow lift involves an incision along the hairline, allowing for the lifting of the skin from the forehead down to the brow bone. This procedure lifts the periosteum, fascia, muscle, and skin, removing excess skin and suturing along the incision line.
4. Benefits of the Forehead-Brow Lift
The benefits of this surgery include widening the distance between the eyes and eyebrows, creating a more open and refreshed look, and revealing the hidden double eyelid line. Additionally, it improves forehead wrinkles, glabellar lines, and crow’s feet. Since it is not just a skin-lifting surgery, the effects of the forehead lift can last for over ten years. As sub-brow lifts and forehead-brow lifts serve different purposes, it is essential to understand their differences and consult extensively with a specialist before deciding on middle-aged eye surgery.
5. Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Both surgeries have similar recovery periods, with significant swelling or bruising subsiding in about a week. For about a month after surgery, it is important to avoid activities that could cause the incision to reopen, and it is advisable to avoid smoking and alcohol. Applying prescribed ointment regularly can help manage scars, and maintaining good hygiene is also crucial.