Can a Brow Lift Fix Hooded Eyes?

Posted on September 28, 2023 in Eyelid Surgery

Hooded eyes can be a frustrating cosmetic problem. Whether you were born with them or they occurred as a result of aging, hooded eyes can make the eyes appear smaller and less prominent. If you’re looking for ways to fix hooded eyes, then Dual Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon and Head and Neck Surgeon Dr. Evan Ransom can help you explore your best options. One common procedure sought out by patients with hooded eyes is the brow lift. Here’s what to know about it and whether it can help you achieve a brighter, more balanced look.

What Are Hooded Eyes?

Hooded eyes (or dermatochalasis) are a facial feature where a small amount of extra skin hangs over the natural eyelid crease. Hooded eyes can reduce the amount of skin that is visible on the upper mobile eyelid and in some cases, can even touch or sit on top of the eyelashes. Women with hooded eyes often experience difficulty wearing eyeshadow or eyeliner because it’s covered by the hoods when the face is at rest – this causes makeup to “crease” throughout the day or disappear entirely. However, men can also experience hooded upper lids that can make the eyes appear smaller.

Brow Position and Hooded Eyes

One important consideration in treating hooded eyes is the natural position of the brow. Hooded eyes can occur in men and women who have a lower brow position which causes the skin below it to sag onto the upper eyelids (brow ptosis). This is typically accompanied by a tired, angry, or aged resting appearance. However, hooded eyes can also occur in men and women with a higher brow position where hooded eyes may be caused by extra skin that folds over the upper eyelids.

The position of the brow is an important consideration when it comes to choosing the right procedure for correcting hooded eyes. Generally, if you raise your eyebrows and more eyelid space is revealed, your hooded eyes are likely caused by sagging brows. However, it’s always best to consult a board-certified facial plastic surgeon for an expert opinion.

Brow Lift vs Upper Eyelid Surgery for Hooded Eyes

The brow lift and upper eyelid surgery are both effective options for hooded eyes but are used in different circumstances. The brow lift can reduce the appearance of hooded eyes for men and women who have sagging brows or a naturally low brow position. It’s also recommended for men and women who have drooping in the outer portion of the brows that causes skin to fall over the eyelid crease. On the other hand, upper eyelid surgery is better for men and women who already have a higher brow position or whose hooded eyes are caused by sagging eyelids.

The brow lift and upper eyelid surgery are two procedures that can be performed together for even more significant improvement. In this case, a combined procedure can address hooded eyes while also smoothing wrinkles around the eyes and brow associated with aging.

Schedule a Consultation

The best way to learn about the brow lift for hooded eyes is by consulting Dr. Ransom at our San Francisco and Mill Valley locations. To schedule a consultation, contact us by calling or filling out our online form.