Extended Gliding Brow Lift: An Effective Solution for Brow and Periorbital Rejuvenation

The gliding brow lift (GBL) is a minimally invasive technique for brow elevation. Limitations of the GBL include restricted redraping areas, potential surface irregularities, and ineffective results, particularly in patients with a short brow to hairline distance. The extended GBL (E-GBL) was developed as an innovative solution to address these challenges by expanding the dissection surface area and incorporating dual-plane dissection.

This retrospective study included 122 patients with at least a 1-year follow-up who underwent E-GBL alone or in combination with other facial procedures between August of 2018 and August of 2023. The surgical technique involved subcutaneous dissection in the face, deep-plane dissection in the hair-bearing scalp, connection of these 2 planes, and precise skin redistribution using a surgical net. Brow position analysis was performed by measuring the vertical distance from the midpupil line to the tail of the brow using ImageJ software. Outcomes were assessed at the 1-year follow-up using patient satisfaction surveys evaluating brow shaping.

The mean follow-up period was 14.1 months. Minor complications occurred in 12 patients (9.8%), all successfully managed. The mean elevation at the tail of the brow was 3.2 ± 0.8 mm ( P < 0.001). Among all respondents, 47 patients (38.5%) rated their satisfaction as very satisfied and 65 (53.3%) as satisfied ( P < 0.01).

By expanding the dissection area, incorporating dual-plane techniques, and using advanced skin redistribution with a simple maneuver, E-GBL ensures long-term results and effectively reduces the length of required incisions, demonstrating its practicality and adaptability to diverse patient needs.