Do You Look Tired, Frustrated, or Unapproachable—
Even When You’re Not?

You may have noticed it in photos, video calls, or casual conversations: people ask if you're upset, tired, or stressed—even when you feel fine. For many men and women, the culprit isn’t their mood—it’s their brows.

As we age, the brow tends to descend, particularly at the outer edges. This subtle change can dramatically affect facial expression, making you appear less approachable or more fatigued than you actually feel. For women, this shift can also interfere with everyday routines—eye makeup may smudge or settle into creases, and it becomes harder to create a clean, lifted look.

These concerns are more than cosmetic. Our faces communicate constantly, and when your appearance no longer reflects how you feel, it can be frustrating and even impact confidence.

Fortunately, there’s a focused and effective solution that doesn’t require major surgery: the lateral subcutaneous brow lift. This modern approach targets the outer brow—the area most responsible for heaviness and fatigue in the eyes—restoring a more rested, lifted appearance with minimal downtime.

When pursuing facial rejuvenation, many individuals focus on facelifts, eyelid surgery, or skin resurfacing. However, the brow is often overlooked, despite playing a critical role in framing the eyes and contributing to an alert, youthful expression.

As we age, the brow tends to descend, particularly in the outer third. This descent can create a tired, heavy, or stern appearance. Lifting the brow—especially the lateral portion—can restore openness to the eyes and improve overall facial harmony.

Going Up: A Conservative Take On The Male Brow LIft

The lateral subcutaneous brow lift is a refined, targeted technique that elevates the outer portion of the brow—the area most prone to descent. This approach offers a natural enhancement with less disruption to surrounding tissues.

How the Procedure Works:

1. A small incision is made at the temporal hairline, within the hair-bearing scalp.
2. The tissue beneath the skin is gently lifted toward the lateral brow.
3. Excess skin is removed, and the incision is carefully closed.
4. The result is a more youthful appearance with a subtle, natural lift, a concealed scar, and minimal downtime.

This technique focuses on restoring the gentle arch of the brow, particularly valued in feminine facial aesthetics. While subtle, the change can significantly improve the appearance of heaviness or drooping in the upper face.

Complimentary Consult with Dr. John Burns, MD, FACS

Benefits of the Lateral Subcutaneous Brow Lift

Targeted Improvement: Focuses specifically on sagging of the lateral brow.
Minimally Invasive: Involves a small incision and no deep dissection.
Faster Recovery: Healing tends to be quicker than with traditional brow lifts.
Natural Results: Enhances the brow's contour without creating an exaggerated or “surprised” appearance.
Performed Under Local Anesthesia: In many cases, the procedure can be done safely in an office setting.

Do I Need An Upper Eyelid LIft, Brow LIft, Or Both?

Considerations and Limitations

While the lateral subcutaneous brow lift is an excellent option for many patients, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some limitations include:

Limited Central Brow Elevation: It does not significantly lift the inner (medial) brow.
No Impact on Forehead Wrinkles: This approach does not address forehead or frown lines. Patients with these concerns may benefit from neurotoxin treatments (such as Botox) or a full brow lift.

If you are exploring options for facial rejuvenation and believe a brow lift may be right for you, a personal consultation can provide clarity. During this meeting, Dr. Burns will evaluate your facial structure, discuss your goals, and explain whether the lateral subcutaneous brow lift—or another procedure—is best suited to achieve your desired result.To learn more or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.