Lateral Temporal Brow Lift: A 20-Year Experience and Surgical Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Rejuvenation of the upper third of the face is a key component of facial aesthetic surgery, as brow position and contour contribute significantly to perceptions of youth and expression. Age-related changes include forehead rhytids and brow descent, with the lateral brow often demonstrating the earliest and most pronounced ptosis. Multiple surgical techniques have been developed to address these changes, ranging from traditional open approaches to minimally invasive endoscopic methods. More recently, there has been a shift toward selective, anatomically tailored techniques that aim to optimize aesthetic outcomes while reducing morbidity. The lateral temporal brow lift has gained increasing adoption as a versatile open approach, offering controlled reshaping and elevation of the lateral brow and upper facial contour through a limited incision.

METHODS: This study provides an overview of established open brow lift techniques, including coronal, pretrichial, direct, and temporal approaches, highlighting key indications and limitations. Particular emphasis is placed on our preferred approach, the lateral temporal subcutaneous brow lift. The operative technique is described in detail, including preoperative marking, incision design, and key surgical pearls, along with a summary of the senior author's 20-year experience with this technique.

RESULTS: In over 500 consecutive cases, this technique demonstrated consistent and durable lateral brow elevation with high patient satisfaction. Complications were infrequent and minor, primarily transient temporal hypoesthesia, with no permanent nerve injury, alopecia, or infection.

CONCLUSIONS: The lateral temporal subcutaneous brow lift is a safe, reliable, and durable technique that provides precise lateral brow elevation with low complication rates and sustained aesthetic improvement.