As we age, the upper face often shows some of the earliest signs of aging. Drooping eyelids, sagging brows, and deep forehead lines can create a tired, sad, or even angry appearance that doesn’t reflect how you truly feel. Two of the most effective procedures for addressing these issues are the eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) and the brow lift. But how do you know which one you need—or whether you might benefit from both?
At the practice of Dr. Joseph J. Rousso, MD, FACS, in New York City, we specialize in helping patients understand their options and choose the procedure that best aligns with their goals.
What an Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty) Addresses
An eyelid lift focuses specifically on the upper and/or lower eyelids. Over time, the eyelid skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity, while fat pads can bulge forward, creating puffiness or bags.
Benefits of an eyelid lift include:
- Removal of sagging skin that hangs over the eyelids
- Reduction of puffiness and under-eye bags
- Improved vision if excess skin obstructs the line of sight
- A younger, more refreshed, and alert appearance
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, eyelid surgery consistently ranks among the top five cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S., with more than 120,000 performed annually in 2023 and 2024. It is often sought by both men and women who want a natural, rejuvenated look without changing their overall facial identity.
What a Brow Lift Addresses
A brow lift (also called a forehead lift) targets the position of the eyebrows and the forehead area. As skin and soft tissues loosen with age, the brows can droop downward, creating a heavy look over the upper eyelids and deepening horizontal forehead creases.
Benefits of a brow lift include:
- Raising drooping brows to a more youthful position
- Reducing horizontal forehead wrinkles
- Softening frown lines (the “11s” between the brows)
- Opening up the eye area for a brighter, more approachable look
Modern brow lift techniques, such as endoscopic brow lifts, use smaller incisions and advanced technology, offering natural results with minimal downtime.
Do You Need an Eyelid Lift, a Brow Lift, or Both?
The decision often depends on the root cause of your concerns:
- If sagging skin is primarily on the eyelids themselves, an eyelid lift is the right choice.
- If your brows are drooping downward, creating heaviness in the upper eye area, a brow lift may be more effective.
- In many cases, patients benefit from both procedures together, as addressing the brows and eyelids in harmony can create the most balanced, youthful result.
During your consultation, Dr. Rousso carefully evaluates your facial anatomy, skin laxity, and aesthetic goals to recommend the best approach for you.
Local Expertise in NTC
Patients from across New York City seek out Dr. Joseph Rousso for his expertise in facial plastic surgery. As a board-certified and fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Rousso is known for achieving natural, elegant outcomes tailored to each individual.
Whether you’re an active Manhattan resident who wants to look as vibrant as you feel running a marathon, or a professional from the UES seeking a refreshed, confident appearance, Dr. Rousso offers advanced techniques and compassionate care close to home.
Schedule Your Consultation
Choosing between an eyelid lift and a brow lift doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With expert guidance, you can confidently select the procedure—or combination—that will deliver the most natural and rejuvenating results.
Contact the office of Dr. Joseph Roussoi in Manhattan today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a brighter, more youthful appearance.