Direct Brow Lift

What is a Direct Brow Lift?

A direct brow lift is a surgical technique in which a carefully measured ellipse of skin and soft tissue is removed directly above the eyebrow, lifting the brow upward to a more youthful position. The incision is placed along the superior edge of the brow hairs, where natural brow texture and shadow help conceal the fine scar over time.

This technique is valued for its precision and predictability—the amount of lift can be controlled with great accuracy, making it an excellent choice for patients who need significant elevation or targeted correction of one or both brows.

When the Direct Approach Is the Right Choice

The direct brow lift is particularly well-suited for:

Patients needing significant brow elevation that other techniques may not fully achieve
Correction of brow asymmetry where one brow requires more lift than the other
Patients with a high hairline or thinning hair where hairline incisions would be visible
Those who have had prior brow or forehead surgery with limited tissue mobility
Patients who prioritize maximum, immediate lift over scar placement
Older patients with heavier brow descent and thicker skin

The Procedure

Under local anesthesia with sedation, Dr. Kieu marks and removes a precise ellipse of tissue just above the upper brow hairs. The remaining skin edges are brought together and closed with fine sutures, elevating the brow to the desired height. The procedure is typically performed in-office or in a surgical center, often in under an hour.

Over time, the fine scar at the brow line fades significantly and can be further camouflaged with brow makeup or microblading if desired.

Scar Considerations

The most important consideration with a direct brow lift is the scar above the brow. Dr. Kieu places incisions with meticulous attention to the natural brow line and uses fine-suture closure techniques to minimize scarring. In many patients—especially those with strong brow hair and textured skin—the scar becomes nearly imperceptible within several months.

During your consultation, Dr. Kieu will honestly discuss scar expectations based on your individual skin type and help you determine if this is the right technique for your goals.

Ideal Candidates

Patients with pronounced brow ptosis (descent) requiring significant correction
Those with brow asymmetry that needs precise, individualized correction
Patients with high hairlines not suited for hairline incision techniques
Those comfortable with a small brow-line scar in exchange for maximal lift
Good general health with realistic expectations

Dr. Kieu's Approach

Dr. Kieu recommends the direct brow lift selectively—it is the right tool when other techniques cannot deliver the degree of lift a patient needs. Her precise surgical planning ensures that excision is measured exactly to achieve the desired arch and height, and her closure technique prioritizes a fine, discreet scar. She will always discuss all available options with you so you can make a fully informed choice.