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

Goals/Purpose: Brow elevation can be achieved through various surgical techniques, each offering distinct advantages and limitations. The Gliding Brow Lift (GBL) gained popularity for its ability to reshape and elevate the brow using small incisions but it has certain limitations. To address these challenges, the Extended Gliding Brow Lift (E-GBL) was developed as an innovative and comprehensive solution. This study evaluates the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction outcomes of E-GBL in achieving optimal brow shape, periocular rejuvenation, and overall facial harmony.

Methods/Technique: A retrospective review of 122 patients with at least 1-year follow-up (118 females, 4 males; Mean age: 57 years, Range: 31–80 years) who underwent E-GBL between August 2018 and August 2023 was conducted. Patients underwent either E-GBL only (19 patients) or E-GBL combined with other facial procedures (103 patients), including neck lift, fat injection, and midface lift. The E-GBL technique involved subcutaneous dissection in the face, deep-plane dissection in the hair-bearing scalp, connection of these two planes, then precise skin redistribution using a surgical net to achieve optimal contouring. Outcomes were assessed using patient surveys conducted at a 1-year follow-up evaluating brow shaping results on a satisfaction scale ranging from 0 ("very dissatisfied") to 5 ("very satisfied").

Results/Complications: The mean follow-up period was 14,1 months (Range: 12–66 months). Postoperative recovery ranged from 7–10 days for E-GBL only to 16–21 days for combined procedures. Minor complications occurred in 12 patients (9.8%), including brow asymmetry (4.1%), temporary neuropraxia (3.2%) and all successfully managed. Among all respondents, 47 patients (38.5 %) rated their satisfaction as "very satisfied”, while 65 (53.3 %) expressed being "satisfied". 10 patients (8.2%) selected a neutral response, indicating they were "neither satisfied nor dissatisfied". Notably, none of the respondents reported dissatisfaction, with no ratings falling below 3 on the scale (p<0,01).

Conclusion: The Extended Gliding Brow Lift (E-GBL) offers versatile solution for addressing moderate skin excess, brow ptosis, and periocular rejuvenation. By combining subcutaneous and deep-plane dissection with precise skin redistribution, E-GBL effectively integrates with other facial procedures with minimal skin incisions. Its high satisfaction rates, low complication profile, and adaptability make it a valuable technique for achieving superior and natural-looking aesthetic outcomes.