Browlift and blepharoplasty are different procedures, producing different results. Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fatty tissue through directly above the eye, usually through an incision on the lash line or in the natural crease of the eyelid. A browlift can indirectly correct some of the same problems, but the procedure (and the improvements) are more extensive than with eyelid surgery. Browlift tightens muscle and removes excess tissue in the forehead, smoothing out lines and “lifting” brow and eyelid tissues that have sagged over time.
A simple way to evaluate whether you need a brow lift or blepharoplasty is to look in the mirror and gently pinch your upper-eyelid skin. If this is enough to correct the droopiness above your eyes, and your brows do not have a lowered or “unhappy” look, eyelid surgery along might be the best option for you. Then, release your eyelid skin and try pulling your forehead skin up with your fingers. If the change you notice seems better targeted to your problem areas and your brows still look natural, this might be a more effective choice.
Key Differences
Blepharoplasty focuses precisely on the excess skin above the eyelids, and the result is a rejuvenated, fresher, and less “worn” appearance. However, this procedure is highly specific and will not correct loose brow tissues that often press down on the eyes from above and create a furrowed, tired look.
Crow’s feet might show improvement from either surgery; this will depend on your unique tissues and how your skin has changed over time. Upper eyelid surgery can have a limited impact on crow’s feet, but in some cases these are caused by a drooping brow, which blepharoplasty cannot correct. Here browlift will work best, and blepharoplasty may not be necessary at all.
It is important to understand how the two procedures relate to each other and speak with your doctor in detail about both options. Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to find out how you can rejuvenate your looks. They will tell you whether a browlift will work best for you or a blepharoplasty is appropriate to achieve the best results.