Do You Always Need a Brow Lift with Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery technically called blepharoplasty is one of the most frequently performed facial procedures for a reason. It’s a remarkably effective way to correct sagging or hooded lids, giving the eyes a more open, awake, and youthful appearance. But one question patients often ask is: “Should I also consider a brow lift?”

The answer: Not always. Whether a brow lift is necessary depends on the anatomy of your upper face and your aesthetic goals. Let’s break down how to decide what’s right for you.

How the Brows and Eyelids Work Together

The position of your brows plays a major role in the appearance of your upper eyelids. Over time, the brow can descend due to gravity and natural aging. This descent combined with laxity in the eyelid skin can create a heavy, crowded look above the eyes.

Here’s the key: sometimes what seems like eyelid “hooding” is actually caused by a drooping brow, or a combination of both. In such cases, only performing eyelid surgery can lead to underwhelming or imbalanced results. A brow lift may be needed to restore harmony and ensure the eyes look truly refreshed.

When Upper Eyelid Surgery Alone Is Enough

Blepharoplasty by itself may be ideal if:

• Your brow is naturally high or hasn’t descended significantly with age
• The heaviness is limited to sagging upper eyelid skin
• You’re seeking subtle, conservative rejuvenation
• You don’t feel your upper face looks tired or angry

In these cases, a skillfully performed upper blepharoplasty can create a brighter, more youthful eye area without the need for a brow lift.

When a Brow Lift May Be Recommended

A combined approach may be best if:

• Your brow has descended and now sits low at rest
• You frequently raise your eyebrows to look more alert or improve vision
• The heaviness affects not just the eyelids, but the forehead and brow area as well
• You want a more complete, refreshed, and lifted appearance

For patients in this category, adding a brow lift helps elevate the upper face and avoids removing too much eyelid skin, which can lead to unnatural tension or distortion.

Tailored Treatment for Natural Results

At Aviva Plastic Surgery, Dr. Inessa Fishman takes a highly individualized approach to facial rejuvenation. During your consultation, she carefully evaluates the relationship between your brow and eyelid position, skin quality, and your personal goals. Whether you need eyelid surgery alone or in combination with a brow lift, the focus is always on achieving results that look natural, expressive, and uniquely you.

Explore Your Options with Expert Guidance

You don’t have to make this decision alone. If you’re considering upper eyelid surgery and wondering if a brow lift should be part of the plan, schedule a consultation with Dr. Fishman. With her expertise in facial aesthetics and an eye for balanced, elegant results, she’ll help you chart the right path toward a more refreshed and confident you.