Pronounced “blef-a-ro-plasty,” this is the most commonly performed facial cosmetic procedure in both men and women.
As we age and our bodies naturally slow down collagen and elastin production, it is only natural that we all will experience skin laxity. Skin laxity causes loose, crepey skin that contributes to an aged, tired appearance. The good news is that you don’t have to live with it!
There are several procedures that target the sagging skin on or around the eyes. Many of these procedures are mostly intended for patients of Asian ancestry, as there is a focus on symptoms most often experienced by Asian ethnicities. Though less common, these symptoms can also be found in those without Asian Ancestry but because they are so common in the Asian community, they require a surgeon who is knowledgeable in Asian anatomy. This demand has created a whole subset of cosmetic procedures for Asian Eyes.
One of these procedures, focusing on lateral hooding, is the Sub-Brow Eyelid Lift or Subbrow Blepharoplasty (SBB).
SBB targets lateral hooding or sagging upper eyelids by removing excess skin and fat directly below the eyebrow. The underlying muscles are then tightened, bringing the drooping skin upward. The incision is made in a way that any resulting scar will be hidden by the eyebrow. The procedure is done under local anesthetic in around 45 minutes.
The result from SBB is energetic, youthful-looking eyes. This procedure can also help resolve issues other than drooping eyebrows, such as forehead wrinkles and asymmetrical eyebrows.
SBB is especially good for patients with an existing double fold who are experiencing sagging on the eyelid. It is also a good option for double eyelid surgery candidates who do not have significant wrinkles to hide eyelid incision but have excess skin past the outer corner of the eyelid (lateral canthus). The best candidates for this procedure have tattooed eyebrows that can help hide the scar perfectly. This symptom of aging is most often seen in patients of Asian ancestry because the skin of the upper eyelid tends to be thicker and therefore is more prone to drooping.
The other benefit of the sub-brow eyelid lift is that in some patients, the eyelid skin incision is avoided which prevents a potentially thick crease. Though this sagging of the upper eyelid is considered a sign of aging, it can begin at any age and patients are sometimes as young as in their 20s.
Many Asians are born without creases in their eyelids, also known as a monolid. This can be corrected with Asian double eyelid surgery or Asian blepharoplasty, which divides a monolid into two parts, creating a natural fold. The result is wider, more open eyes. A sub-brow lift specifically targets sagging skin and heaviness of the outer portion of the upper eyelid, but will not create a crease. This is why it is best suited for those who have an existing crease, either naturally or from a previous procedure, or want to preserve their monolid. It is also possible to combine the two procedures.
Post-surgery, you will experience some swelling and bruising, but shouldn’t experience extreme pain. Swelling should subside in one week and it can take between 2 and 4 weeks to disappear completely.
One week after your procedure, you will return to Dr. Amadi’s office for a follow-up appointment and to have your sutures removed. The scar will be pink for a few weeks but it is often well hidden by eyebrow hair, or eyebrow tattoo if the patient has tattooed eyebrows.
Most patients can return to their regular routine within a day or two post-surgery, though they should avoid strenuous activity.
As with any surgical procedure, there are possible risks and complications, however there are few associated with sub-brow lifts, especially when performed by a reputable surgeon such as Dr. Amadi. The most common risks are visible scarring, asymmetrical brows and/or asymmetrical supratarsal folds, and hypertrophic scarring.
Oversection can lead to lagophthalmos and in some rare cases, lid lag. These last complications are mostly associated with procedures performed by inexperienced surgeons.
For these procedures to be performed properly, it is necessary to find a cosmetic surgeon with advanced knowledge and understanding of Asian anatomy, specifically the eyes. Dr. Amadi has extensive experience performing Asian eyelid surgeries. He has published research on the subject and has travelled overseas to South Korea to train and master his skill with internationally renowned Asian Eyelid Surgery Specialists. With his skills, and ability to listen to his patients’ wishes, you can rest assured that you are in the most capable hands. Dr. Amadi will do everything to ensure that you achieve your most desired outcome.
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