2026-09-03
Are there side effects of sub-brow lift surgery? A realistic overview of what can happen
Concerned about sub-brow lift surgery? This article addresses common worries like scars, eye shape changes, and sensory issues, providing a realistic overview of potential outcomes and recovery.
※ This article is for the purpose of providing medical information.
It is not subject to deliberation under Article 56, Paragraph 2 and Article 57 of the Medical Act,
and is not an advertising post unrelated to the content of deliberation.
Hello,
I am Dr. Park Jung-geun,
Director of Faceplus Plastic Surgery Clinic.
Those considering sub-brow lift surgery often ask similar questions first:
‘Will the scar be okay?’
‘Will my eye shape look strange?’
Even small changes around the eyes can significantly alter one’s impression, so it's natural to have concerns.
Therefore, rather than simply being told ‘it’s fine,’ it’s crucial to understand exactly what changes can occur and approach the procedure with accurate information.
From now on, I will realistically outline only the possible outcomes, without exaggeration.
Table of Contents | ||
1. Surgical structure and basic changes 2. Scars and changes in eyebrow position 3. Sensory reduction and recovery process 4. Cases where results differ from expectations |
1. Surgical structure and basic changes
A sub-brow lift involves excising the skin below the eyebrow and lifting the underlying tissue along with it.
Since it's not just about tidying up the skin but also involves lifting part of the muscle layer, structural changes are more significant than one might expect.
Because incision and dissection are involved in this process, basic reactions such as swelling, tightness, and temporary discomfort may occur.
These generally fall within the range that naturally subsides during the recovery process.
2. Scars and changes in eyebrow position
Scars are the most significant concern in sub-brow lifts.
Initially, it may appear as a reddish line along the underside of the eyebrow, but over time, it gradually fades and often blends naturally with the eyebrow border.
Typically, after about 1-2 months, it becomes unnoticeable in daily life.
However, if the skin is excessively pulled and sutured, or if the design is unnatural, the scar may widen or become more prominent.
Also, in rare cases, the eyebrow position may rise more than expected, or the left-right balance may be uneven.
3. Sensory reduction and recovery process
Since small nerves pass through the eyebrow area, temporary numbness or a tingling sensation may occur after surgery.
In most cases, this recovers naturally over time.
In the early stages of recovery, swelling and bruising may appear together, and the area around the eyes may feel stiff due to the pulled tissue.
These changes usually alleviate significantly within 1-2 weeks, and it is common for the area to gradually return to a natural state thereafter.
4. Cases where results differ from expectations
The most common feedback during consultations is that ‘the change is less than expected.’
While a sub-brow lift is effective in improving upper eyelid sagging, it is not a surgery that resolves double eyelid asymmetry or multiple folds.
Therefore, if the problem lies with the eyelid itself and a sub-brow lift is chosen, the expected changes may not be achieved.
In such cases, it’s less of a side effect and more about choosing the wrong surgery for the specific issue.
A sub-brow lift can help make the area around the eyes naturally lighter,
but it’s important to accurately understand the points where changes can occur, given that it involves incision and tissue movement.
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Sub-brow lift surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to the scar after sub-brow lift surgery?
Initially, it may appear as a reddish line along the underside of the eyebrow. However, over time, it gradually fades and often blends naturally with the eyebrow border. Typically, after about 1-2 months, it becomes unnoticeable in daily life.
Can the sensation around the eyes be dulled after surgery?
Yes, it is possible. Since small nerves pass through the eyebrow area, temporary numbness or a tingling sensation may occur after surgery. In most cases, this recovers naturally over time.
How long is the recovery period after sub-brow lift surgery?
In the early stages of recovery, swelling and bruising may appear together, and the tissue may feel stiff due to being pulled. These changes usually alleviate significantly within 1-2 weeks, and it is common for the area to gradually return to a natural state thereafter.
Can sub-brow lift surgery improve double eyelid asymmetry?
No, a sub-brow lift is effective in improving upper eyelid sagging, but it is not a surgery that resolves double eyelid asymmetry or multiple folds. If the problem lies with the eyelid itself, other surgeries may need to be considered.
How is sub-brow lift surgery performed?
A sub-brow lift involves excising the skin below the eyebrow and lifting the underlying tissue along with it. It's not just about tidying up the skin but also involves lifting part of the muscle layer, leading to structural changes.
Can the eyebrow position change after surgery?
Yes, this can occur in rare cases. If the skin is excessively pulled and sutured, or if the design is unnatural, the scar may widen or become more prominent. The eyebrow position may also rise more than expected, or the left-right balance may be uneven.