If people often assume you’re irritated or upset when you’re actually calm and content, your brow position may be to blame. Over time, age and genetics can cause the eyebrows to descend, creating what’s commonly known as a “resting angry face.” In this post, Dr. Flora Levin, a board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with over a decade of specialized experience in eyelid and eyebrow surgery, explains how a brow lift can gently reposition the eyebrows—softening your overall expression and helping you look as relaxed and friendly as you feel.
Why Eyebrows Matter
When we interact with someone, the eyes are often the very first thing we notice. However, your eyebrows come in at a close second. For example:
- Brows help shape and frame the upper face
- Subtle changes in the brow position can nonverbally convey a range of emotions—curiosity, surprise, concern, and more
- Well-positioned brows direct focus to your eyes
Because the eyebrows and eyelids work together, the eyelid skin can appear more hooded or droopy when your brows descend even slightly. This combined effect may unintentionally give the impression of anger, tiredness, or frustration.
How a Brow Lift Helps Soften an “Angry” Look
- Lift and Reposition: Elevating the brow just a few millimeters—particularly around the outer third—can achieve a more approachable, less “angry” look.
- Restore Youthful Contours: With age, the brow's tail tends to drop, contributing to hooding in the outer portion of the eyelid and giving a heavier appearance. A brow lift restores that youthful arch and contour.
- Correct Asymmetry: Brows rarely age (or were never shaped) perfectly symmetrically. A brow lift can balance uneven brow lines for a more harmonious look.
- Create a Bright, Alert Expression: Lifting the brows reveals more of the upper eyelid, opening the entire eye area.
Brow Lift Types
Each type of brow lift is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, desired results, and overall facial balance. For example:
- Non-Surgical Brow Lift: This approach utilizes carefully administered BOTOX injections to target specific muscles that depress the brows. It offers a subtle lift with minimal downtime, making it ideal for patients with mild drooping who prefer a non-invasive option. Results are temporary and typically require maintenance.
- Lateral Brow Lift: Focusing on the outer third of the brows, the lateral brow lift addresses sagging predominantly in the tail area. This procedure lifts and reshapes the outer portion, enhancing the natural arch and providing a more open, alert expression without altering the entire brow line.
- Endoscopic Brow Lift (Full Lift): Ideal for patients experiencing significant brow sagging along the entire brow line, the endoscopic brow lift employs small incisions hidden within the hairline. This minimally invasive technique allows the surgeon to release ligamentous attachments and elevate the entire brow, resulting in a harmonious and long-lasting youthful appearance.
- Direct Brow Lift: A direct brow lift may be recommended in cases where substantial drooping directly affects the upper eyelid’s appearance. This approach involves the precise removal of excess skin and targeted elevation of the brow. It offers immediate, dramatic results, particularly when correcting significant asymmetry or hooding of the upper eyelids.
Each brow lift technique is designed to restore natural contours and balance, ensuring your rejuvenated look remains authentic and tailored to your facial features. During your consultation, Dr. Levin will assess your individual needs and guide you toward the best option for achieving the results you desire.
Ready to Learn More?
A subtle yet effective brow lift can soften that “resting angry face,” helping you present a more approachable and vibrant appearance. Friends and colleagues may notice a difference but won’t be able to identify exactly what has changed; they will simply see a more refreshed and confident version of you.
Contact Dr. Flora Levin today to schedule your consultation. You will better understand which brow lift technique can best address your concerns, bringing you one step closer to a naturally lifted, more youthful look.
