At Dr. James Anthony Plastic Surgery in San Francisco, many patients come to us with one procedure in mind to rejuvenate the eye area, only to discover that the most natural and balanced results often come from combining eyelid surgery with a brow lift. When performed together, this approach not only enhances aesthetic balance but also helps address both cosmetic and functional concerns in a single, thoughtfully planned procedure.
Eyelid Lift and Brow Lift Defined
Before exploring how they work in tandem, it helps to understand what each procedure does on its own:
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
- Eyelid surgery addresses the delicate skin and muscle surrounding the eyes—areas where aging often first appears
- Over time, the eyelids can stretch and droop, creating puffiness, sagging skin, or even obstructed vision
- During a blepharoplasty, Dr. Anthony removes or repositions excess skin and fat from the upper and/or lower lids to restore a smoother, more defined eye contour while preserving natural eye shape and expression
- While natural aging continues, smoother contours and reduced puffiness typically last for several years (Eyelid Surgery | American Society of Plastic Surgeons)
Brow Lift (Forehead Lift or Browplasty)
- A brow lift targets the area above the eyes—lifting and smoothing the forehead to reverse the effects of gravity and aging
- When the brow descends, it can create deep forehead creases, frown lines, and hooding over the upper eyelids, which makes the eyes appear tired or stern
- Using advanced techniques such as endoscopic or temporal lifts, Dr. Anthony elevates the brow to its natural position and softens lines
- A well-performed brow lift can significantly improve both appearance and self-confidence by opening the eye area and rebalancing facial proportions
Why Combine the Procedures?
Reason #1: Address the Entire Upper-Face Aging Process
Aging rarely limits itself to one anatomical zone. In the upper face, changes often include:
- Drooping or sagging brows (brow ptosis)
- Hooding of the upper eyelids
- Excess skin or bags in the lower eyelids
- Deep forehead lines or frown lines
Treating only the eyelids with blepharoplasty may leave a heavy appearance above the eyes, while lifting the brows without addressing the eyelid skin can result in fatty bags or excess skin. Combining both approaches provides a more complete upper-face rejuvenation.
Reason #2: Better Aesthetic Balance, Symmetry, And Natural Expression
When performed together, your surgeon can tailor each step to match the new brow position, thereby preventing over- or under-resection of eyelid tissue, resulting in a balanced, natural, and symmetrical look.
Recent studies support the benefits of this combined approach:
- A clinical series found that combining a lateral pretrichial brow lift with upper blepharoplasty significantly improved brow symmetry, with high patient satisfaction and low complication rates
- Another study evaluating internal brow lifts performed through the eyelid incision demonstrated measurable eyebrow elevation and enhanced upper-lid contour within 90 days post-operation
Together, these findings reinforce what we observe in practice: when the brow and eyelids are treated as a single aesthetic unit, the results appear more harmonious and naturally rejuvenated.
Reason #3: Single Recovery, Consolidated Downtime, Lower Cumulative Cost
By performing both procedures in one session, patients benefit from:
- A single anesthesia event
- One recovery period
- Combined fees
This makes it more cost-effective and less disruptive overall. From a healing standpoint, swelling and bruising resolve together, rather than being experienced twice.
What to Expect: Recovery, Risks, and Results
- First week: You may experience temporary swelling and bruising around the eyes and forehead, as well as mild tightness or numbness in the upper face. Using cold compresses and keeping your head elevated can help speed up the healing process. Light activity is acceptable, but be sure to avoid activities that involve bending, lifting, or straining. Sutures are usually removed within 5 to 7 days.
- Weeks 2–4: Swelling and discoloration gradually decrease. Numbness or tingling may linger temporarily. Most patients can return to work and engage in light social activities by the end of the second week. Makeup can typically be applied again once the incisions have healed.
- Months 3–12: The final contours of the brow and eyelids refine gradually. Scars mature and blend with the natural skin tone. Results typically last a decade or longer, depending on an individual's lifestyle and genetics.
- Risks: As with any surgery, risks include temporary numbness, asymmetry, scarring, or swelling. When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in both procedures, complication rates are low and recovery is generally smooth.
We’re Here to Help You Achieve Balanced Beauty
Every procedure at our practice begins with a comprehensive understanding of facial harmony. Dr. Anthony uses Vectra® 3D imaging to preview results, ensuring clear communication and confidence before surgery.
His approach combines conservative artistry with advanced technique, featuring small, discreet incisions, gentle tissue handling, and meticulous attention to proportion. When eyelid surgery and a brow lift are performed together, patients enjoy balanced rejuvenation, natural expression, and a single, streamlined recovery.
Dr. Anthony is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, recognized as one of America’s Best Doctors and a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for multiple consecutive years. All surgeries are performed in his AAAHC- and Medicare-certified surgical center in San Francisco, utilizing board-certified anesthesiologists and adhering to rigorous safety standards.
If you’re ready to achieve a brighter, more youthful appearance, we invite you to schedule a private consultation to explore how these procedures can work together to meet your goals. Contact us today.
