2026-06-04
Improving Drooping Eyes: Endoscopic Forehead Lift vs. Subbrow Lift Differences and the Right Surgery for You
A detailed comparison of the differences between an endoscopic forehead lift and a subbrow lift, two representative methods for improving drooping eyelids. Discover the most natural solution to enhance your appearance by exploring the principles of each surgery, expected effects, and the criteria for selecting the right candidates based on eye shape and facial features.
Two Choices for Improving Drooping Eyes: How Are They Different?
As we age, many people consider improving drooping eyes because their eyelids sag or their natural impression looks heavy and tired. Endoscopic forehead lift and subbrow lift are considered representative solutions, but the two surgeries have distinct differences in their methods and target candidates. Today, together with 345 Plastic Surgery, we will look at the characteristics of each surgery and find out which method is right for you.
1. Endoscopic Forehead Lift vs. Subbrow Lift: Understanding the Concepts
Both surgeries aim to create a refreshed look for drooping eyes, but their approach locations are different.
What is an Endoscopic Forehead Lift?
This is a surgery where a minimal incision is made inside the hairline of the forehead, and an endoscope is inserted to pull up the entire forehead. During this process, the position of the eyebrows naturally rises as well, and you can expect the effect of improving not only drooping eyelids but also forehead wrinkles and frown lines all at once.
What is a Subbrow Lift?
Rather than lifting the eyebrow itself, this method usually involves making an incision along the lower boundary of the eyebrow to directly pull up the sagging upper eyelid skin. There is also a method of making an incision above the eyebrow, but due to concerns about scar exposure, a 'subbrow lift' through an incision below the eyebrow is generally more widely performed.
2. Differences in Regional Effects and Impression Changes
The choice depends on whether only the eyelids are lifted or if the overall impression changes.
- Scope of Application: While a subbrow lift mainly focuses on drooping eyelids, an endoscopic forehead lift comprehensively improves three areas: the forehead, eyebrows, and eyelids.
- Facial Expressions and Impression: Since an endoscopic forehead lift also lifts the glabellar (frown line) area, it is advantageous for improving a heavy or angry-looking impression into a much softer and brighter one.
- Eyebrow Position: A subbrow lift leaves the eyebrow position as is and only excises the skin below it, whereas a forehead lift moves the actual position of the eyebrows upward.
3. Which Drooping Eye Solution is Right for Me?
The recommended surgical method varies depending on an individual's anatomical structure.
| Type | Recommended Surgery | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| When the distance between the eyebrows and eyes is narrow and looks heavy | Endoscopic Forehead Lift | Lifts the eyebrows upward to refreshingly expand the eye area |
| When there is enough distance between the eyebrows and eyes, and the skin is thick | Subbrow Lift | Directly excises sagging skin to induce rapid improvement |
| When the skin is thin, has little fat, and there are double eyelids | Upper Blepharoplasty | Improves sagging while refining the existing double eyelid line |
4. Precautions During Surgery and Recovery Care
All plastic surgeries can cause side effects such as bruising, swelling, and temporary sensory changes depending on the individual. In particular, a lift is a highly difficult surgery that requires delicate adjustment of skin tension and muscle movement, so a consultation with a specialist who has abundant clinical experience is essential. For about 1 to 2 weeks after surgery, avoiding lifting heavy objects or bending your head down will help ensure a smooth recovery.
Improving drooping eyes is not simply about making the eyes bigger, but a process of finding harmony for the entire face. We hope you achieve a healthier and more vibrant impression through a 1:1 customized solution that considers the arrangement of your facial features and skin characteristics.