Postoperative outcome after modified subcutaneous brow lift – an extensive and comparable approach

Changes in brow position either over time or from other causes can negatively impact patient self-perception and quality of life significantly. There are many surgical techniques for brow lifting. The aim of this study is to record and compare both the patients’ subjective perception and the clinical findings before and after modified subcutaneous eyebrow lift in an extensive setting as possible. The investigation was carried out as an observational study. Objective and semi-objective data from photo analysis and clinical examination of facial sensation were added to subjective data from questionnaires and visual-analog-scales to achieve a holistic approach. Postoperative complications were also recorded. For statistical analysis, Mann Whitney test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Chi2 test or ANOVA were used as appropriate. Stable eyebrow lifting was achieved (p = 0.0271 right; p = 0.0016 left) without an increase of the forehead height (p = 0.0723 right; p = 0.3689 left). Patients reported the position of the eyebrow better over time (p < 0.0006), feel more attractive (p = 0.0004), and were more satisfied with their face (p < 0.0001) postoperatively. Almost all patients (95.45%) would recommend this surgical procedure and would have it done again. A temporary reduction of the forehead sensation was demonstrated on clinical examination (p = 0.0019) and visual-analog-scale (right p = 0.0007, left p = 0.0003). The modified subcutaneous brow lift is an effective procedure with temporary mild postoperative complications. Patients´ acceptance and satisfaction are high. The diverse methods used enable a holistic understanding of the topic. We advocate and recommend a standardized data collection of outcomes after brow lift to enable a reliable comparison of different studies. The methods used here seem suitable for this purpose. Level of Evidence: Level IV, theraeputic study.