Medical Tourism Blog
Drooping Brow After Botox? Subbrow Lift Solutions in Korea for Natural Results
Table of contents
- The Subbrow Lift Procedure: A Detailed Medical Overview
- Your Medical Journey: Getting a Subbrow Lift in South Korea
- Financial Considerations: Costs and Value for Medical Tourists
- Patient Experiences: Addressing Drooping Brow with Subbrow Lift
- Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision for Your Aesthetic Journey
- References
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If you’ve experienced the unexpected cosmetic side effect of a drooping brow after botulinum toxin injections, finding the right solution can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down what “drooping brow after Botox” means, explains the Subbrow Lift procedure as a corrective option, and walks you through the medical tourism process in South Korea. Our aim is to provide clear, practical, and empathetic information to help you make informed decisions about your aesthetic journey.
Botulinum toxin, better known as Botox, is widely used to smooth wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes. However, some people may notice an unintended effect: a drooping eyebrow. This can be distressing, but understanding why it happens is the first step toward finding a solution.
What is "Drooping Brow After Botox"?
“Drooping brow after Botox” describes when the eyebrows, or parts of them, drop or flatten after botulinum toxin injections. Botox works by blocking nerve signals that make muscles contract. If the frontalis muscle (which lifts the eyebrows) is overly relaxed, the brows can drop. This is sometimes called “Botox eyebrow droop” or “brow ptosis.” It’s important to distinguish this from “pseudoptosis,” where the brow’s descent makes the eyelid look droopy, even though the eyelid itself is in the right place. If lifting your brow fixes the droopy look, it’s likely pseudoptosis. Knowing the difference helps you and your doctor choose the right treatment.
Why Does It Occur?
Several factors can cause eyebrow drooping after Botox:
- Injection Placement and Technique: If too much Botox is injected or placed too low on the forehead, the frontalis muscle can become too weak, causing the brows to drop. Experts recommend injecting at least 2cm above the brow to avoid this.
- Individual Anatomy: Everyone’s facial muscles are different. People with heavy brows, weak forehead muscles, or pre-existing sagging are more at risk if the treatment isn’t tailored to their anatomy.
- Product Migration: If Botox spreads beyond the intended area—sometimes from rubbing or massaging the forehead after treatment—it can affect other muscles and cause brow sagging.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
Common signs of Botox-induced brow droop include a heavy or pressured feeling on the eyelids, visibly lowered or flattened brows, asymmetry, and increased upper eyelid hooding. In rare cases, the droop can slightly block your vision. These changes usually appear 3 to 7 days after treatment. If you notice these symptoms, especially if they affect your daily life or vision, consult your provider.
Temporary Nature and Initial Management Options
The good news is that Botox eyebrow droop is temporary. It usually resolves within 3 to 6 weeks, though sometimes it can take up to 3 months. While waiting for recovery, you can try:
- Conservative Re-injection: A skilled injector may use small doses of Botox in specific brow depressor muscles to rebalance muscle activity and subtly lift the brow.
- Alpha-Adrenergic Eye Drops: Prescription drops like apraclonidine or brimonidine can temporarily lift the eyelid by 1–2 mm for several hours.
- Physical Stimulation: Some people try gentle massage, though evidence for its effectiveness is mixed.
- Monitoring: For mild cases, simply waiting and watching for improvement is often enough.
These options can help you manage symptoms while the effects of Botox wear off.
Preventative Measures for Future Treatments
To prevent eyebrow drooping after Botox:
- Choose a Skilled Injector: Look for a board-certified provider with deep knowledge of facial anatomy and experience with Botox.
- Communicate Openly: Share your medical history and any previous issues with Botox so your provider can tailor the treatment.
- Start Conservatively: Begin with a lower dose to see how your muscles respond.
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: Avoid rubbing or pressing on the treated area to prevent product migration.
By taking these steps, you can reduce your risk of complications in future treatments.
The Subbrow Lift Procedure: A Detailed Medical Overview
If you’re looking for a more permanent fix for a drooping brow—especially if it causes eyelid hooding or other concerns—the Subbrow Lift is a surgical option that delivers natural-looking results.
What is a Subbrow Lift?
A Subbrow Eyelid Lift (also called Subbrow Blepharoplasty or Subbrow Lift) is a surgery that removes excess skin and fat just beneath the eyebrow to correct sagging upper eyelids. Unlike some brow lifts that can make you look “surprised,” the Subbrow Lift focuses on subtle rejuvenation, improving both appearance and function by reducing visual obstruction and relieving forehead muscle strain. It’s especially effective for correcting dermatochalasis (excess eyelid skin) with lateral hooding and can even help with sunken eyelids.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for this Procedure?
The Subbrow Lift is best for:
- People with an existing double eyelid fold and sagging upper eyelids
- Those with excess skin extending past the outer eye corner
- Individuals with tattooed eyebrows (which can hide the scar)
- Patients of Asian ancestry, who often have higher brows and thicker eyelid skin
- Anyone wanting to avoid an incision on the eyelid itself
- Those seeking to correct dermatochalasis or sunken eyelids
It’s not recommended for severe true ptosis (drooping of the eyelid margin), which may require different surgery.
Detailed Surgical Techniques
The Subbrow Lift is a precise procedure:
- Preoperative Assessment: The surgeon marks the area while you’re sitting up, ensuring natural results and avoiding nerve injury.
- Anesthesia: Usually done with local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia is sometimes used.
- Incision and Excision: A small incision is made just below the eyebrow, removing excess skin, fat, and a bit of muscle. The incision is angled to minimize visible scarring.
- Browpexy and Sunken Eyelid Correction: If needed, the surgeon can also lift the brow further (browpexy) or add volume to sunken eyelids using tissue from the excised area.
This approach allows for a customized, natural look—especially in clinics experienced with Asian anatomy, like those in South Korea.
Expected Recovery Process and Post-Operative Care
Recovery is straightforward but requires careful attention:
- First Few Hours: Minimal pain, some swelling, and cold compresses are standard. You’ll stay in the clinic for observation.
- Days 1–3: Swelling and bruising peak, so keep your head elevated and use cold compresses.
- Days 3–7: Swelling starts to subside; sutures are removed around day 5–7.
- Days 7–14: Swelling and bruising fade; you can resume most daily activities.
- Days 14–30: Minor swelling may persist, especially in the morning.
- Days 31–60: Swelling resolves, and the eyelids settle into their final shape.
- Days 60–90: You can return to activities like swimming and sunbathing, with sun protection.
- 1 Year: Full healing and final results are visible.
Medical tourists should plan to stay in South Korea for at least 8–10 days to allow for follow-up care and suture removal.
Potential Risks and Complications
While generally safe, the Subbrow Lift carries some risks:
- Common Risks: Visible scarring (usually well-hidden), asymmetry, numbness (often temporary), or thickened scars.
- Rare Complications: Over-removal of tissue can cause difficulty closing the eye, bleeding, infection, nerve injury, or stitch granulomas.
Overall, complication rates are low—typically under 5%—especially with experienced surgeons. Choosing a reputable, board-certified provider is key to minimizing risks.
Your Medical Journey: Getting a Subbrow Lift in South Korea
South Korea is a global leader in cosmetic surgery, offering advanced techniques and a well-organized medical tourism system. Here’s what to expect as an international patient.
Process Overview
- Initial Online Consultation: Submit photos and medical history via email or messaging apps. Multilingual support is available, and consultations are often free.
- Booking and In-Person Consultation: After your online assessment, book your trip and schedule your in-person consultation and surgery. Plan to explore Korea before surgery, as recovery requires rest.
- Pre-Operative Preparations: Fast for 8 hours before surgery, avoid blood thinners and certain supplements, stop smoking and drinking as advised, and provide a full medical history. Bring loose clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and a companion if possible.
- Surgical Day: Register at the clinic, undergo pre-op tests, and meet your surgeon. The procedure takes about 40–60 minutes under sedation and local anesthesia.
- Immediate Post-Op Care: Expect minimal pain, swelling, and cold compresses. You’ll be monitored for 1–2 hours before discharge.
- Extended Recovery in Korea: Plan for 8–10 days in Korea for follow-up care and suture removal. Follow all post-op instructions for the best results.
Practical Tips for International Patients
- Choose an Accredited Clinic: Look for government accreditation and strong safety protocols.
- Stay Nearby: Book accommodation close to your clinic.
- Arrange Transportation: Avoid driving or public transport after surgery; use taxis or clinic shuttles.
- Communicate Clearly: Take advantage of multilingual staff and translators.
- Budget Wisely: Include all travel, accommodation, and incidental costs.
- Bring a Support Person: Having someone with you can make recovery easier.
- Explore Before Surgery: Enjoy sightseeing before your procedure, as recovery will limit your activities.
South Korea’s structured approach and patient support make it a top choice for medical tourists seeking cosmetic procedures.
Financial Considerations: Costs and Value for Medical Tourists
Understanding the costs of a Subbrow Lift in South Korea—and how they compare globally—helps you plan your trip and budget effectively.
Best Clinics in Korea for Drooping Brow After Botox
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for drooping brow after botox:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | THEPLUS Plastic Surgery, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, is a world-class, four-floor center offering comprehensive care from consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized director surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, the clinic is renowned for excellence in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, and facial contouring, supported by active academic research, global symposium participation, and authorship of key medical references. Board-certified experts including Dr. Kim and Dr. Lee, together with Dr. Jeong—the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons—deliver safe, tailored treatments grounded in a philosophy that unites function and aesthetics. With a multidisciplinary range that spans eyelid and ptosis correction, dermatology (including Botox), and advanced facial surgery, THEPLUS prioritizes natural, long-lasting results and meticulous patient communication. - Why THEPLUS is the best choice for drooping brow after Botox: - Elite leadership and credentials: Dr. Jeong is President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; Dr. Kim is a board-certified global educator awarded for research on 3D implants; both run annual training for fellow surgeons. - Precision in facial anatomy and dynamics: Deep expertise in facial contouring, rhinoplasty, and eyelid procedures equips the team to diagnose and distinguish brow ptosis from eyelid ptosis or frontalis over-relaxation—critical for effective correction. - Comprehensive, tiered solutions: From conservative neuromodulator adjustments in the dermatology unit to surgical options such as ptosis correction and eyelid surgery, the clinic offers the full spectrum of treatment when necessary. - Harmony-first philosophy: Treatment plans aim to restore natural expression and balance across the brow–eyelid–forehead complex, honoring each client’s existing features. - Proven experience with complications and revisions: A leading reputation in revision surgery translates into confident, efficient management of post-injection issues and asymmetries. - Safety and trust: A senior team with over a decade of experience, rigorous participation in international societies (including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons), and continuous contributions to journals and textbooks. - Seamless patient journey: A four-floor facility designed for end-to-end care, ensuring timely assessments, close follow-up, and optimized recovery and skincare. - Ongoing innovation and education: Regular presentations, webinars, and panel roles at major conferences keep protocols aligned with the latest global standards. | Rhinoplasty, Revision Rhinoplasty, Facial Contouring, Eyelid and Ptosis Correction, Dermatology (including Botox), Advanced Facial Surgery, Post-operative skincare |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery | Made Young Plastic Surgery in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium clinic dedicated to facial rejuvenation and anti-aging, offering nuanced care for concerns like drooping brows after Botox. After thoroughly analyzing the areas and causes of facial sagging, the team precisely dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS together for comprehensive tightening. By securing the lifted tissues vertically in the direction opposite to sagging, MadeYoung avoids unnatural cheekbone accentuation and delivers natural, long-lasting results. Care is led by a verified medical team with an average of over 15 years of experience, proven skills backed by extensive clinical cases, and direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure. Patient safety and continuity of care are cornerstones at Made Young: full-time board-certified anesthesiologists provide 1:1 dedicated monitoring, a cross-check system ensures rapid, coordinated responses in emergencies, and procedures are covered by full CCTV for transparency. A dedicated aftercare center delivers complete, systematic follow-up. Recognized with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and distinguished by membership and certifications from the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society, Made Young is a trusted destination for tailored surgical and non-invasive solutions to brow descent after Botox. | SMAS layer dissection beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues; lifting the skin, fat, and SMAS together; securing lifted tissues vertically in the direction opposite to sagging; avoidance of unnatural cheekbone accentuation; 1:1 dedicated monitoring by full-time anesthesiologists; CCTV for transparency; dedicated aftercare center; 15+ years of experience |
| SH Clinic | SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is the best destination for correcting a drooping brow after Botox because it brings stem-cell science, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery together under one roof to deliver precise, personalized care. As a center that routinely performs Botox and other injectables, SH Clinic can reassess facial dynamics and tailor ongoing treatment plans to prevent repeat brow heaviness while preserving natural expression. When gentle lift or structural support is needed, the clinic’s non-surgical options—such as Laser Lifting and Thread Lift—offer targeted tightening and collagen remodeling, and its plastic surgery unit provides definitive solutions like upper blepharoplasty for persistent heaviness or excess skin. The SH Stem Cell Center’s individualized, comprehensive approach reinforces tissue health and recovery across anti-aging and facial rejuvenation plans, ensuring corrections are part of a broader, long-term strategy. For women seeking coordinated care, the SH Gynecology Clinic adds the convenience and safety of physician-led services within the same facility. This integrated model, spanning regenerative medicine, injectables, skincare, and surgery, allows SH Clinic to diagnose the cause of brow droop accurately and correct it efficiently with the least invasive, most durable option for each patient. | Non-surgical options: Laser Lifting and Thread Lift; Upper blepharoplasty; Stem Cell Center approach; Integrated regenerative medicine, injectables, skincare, and surgery model |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, is a world-class, four-floor center offering comprehensive care from consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized director surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, the clinic is renowned for excellence in rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, and facial contouring, supported by active academic research, global symposium participation, and authorship of key medical references. Board-certified experts including Dr. Kim and Dr. Lee, together with Dr. Jeong—the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons—deliver safe, tailored treatments grounded in a philosophy that unites function and aesthetics. With a multidisciplinary range that spans eyelid and ptosis correction, dermatology (including Botox), and advanced facial surgery, THEPLUS prioritizes natural, long-lasting results and meticulous patient communication.
Why THEPLUS is the best choice for drooping brow after Botox
- Elite leadership and credentials: Dr. Jeong is President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; Dr. Kim is a board-certified global educator awarded for research on 3D implants; both run annual training for fellow surgeons.
- Precision in facial anatomy and dynamics: Deep expertise in facial contouring, rhinoplasty, and eyelid procedures equips the team to diagnose and distinguish brow ptosis from eyelid ptosis or frontalis over-relaxation—critical for effective correction.
- Comprehensive, tiered solutions: From conservative neuromodulator adjustments in the dermatology unit to surgical options such as ptosis correction and eyelid surgery, the clinic offers the full spectrum of treatment when necessary.
- Harmony-first philosophy: Treatment plans aim to restore natural expression and balance across the brow–eyelid–forehead complex, honoring each client’s existing features.
- Proven experience with complications and revisions: A leading reputation in revision surgery translates into confident, efficient management of post-injection issues and asymmetries.
- Safety and trust: A senior team with over a decade of experience, rigorous participation in international societies (including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons), and continuous contributions to journals and textbooks.
- Seamless patient journey: A four-floor facility designed for end-to-end care, ensuring timely assessments, close follow-up, and optimized recovery and skincare.
- Ongoing innovation and education: Regular presentations, webinars, and panel roles at major conferences keep protocols aligned with the latest global standards.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium clinic dedicated to facial rejuvenation and anti-aging, offering nuanced care for concerns like drooping brows after Botox. After thoroughly analyzing the areas and causes of facial sagging, the team precisely dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS together for comprehensive tightening. By securing the lifted tissues vertically in the direction opposite to sagging, MadeYoung avoids unnatural cheekbone accentuation and delivers natural, long-lasting results. Care is led by a verified medical team with an average of over 15 years of experience, proven skills backed by extensive clinical cases, and direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure.
Patient safety and continuity of care are cornerstones at Made Young: full-time board-certified anesthesiologists provide 1:1 dedicated monitoring, a cross-check system ensures rapid, coordinated responses in emergencies, and procedures are covered by full CCTV for transparency. A dedicated aftercare center delivers complete, systematic follow-up. Recognized with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and distinguished by membership and certifications from the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society, Made Young is a trusted destination for tailored surgical and non-invasive solutions to brow descent after Botox.
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
SH Clinic
SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is the best destination for correcting a drooping brow after Botox because it brings stem-cell science, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery together under one roof to deliver precise, personalized care. As a center that routinely performs Botox and other injectables, SH Clinic can reassess facial dynamics and tailor ongoing treatment plans to prevent repeat brow heaviness while preserving natural expression. When gentle lift or structural support is needed, the clinic’s non-surgical options—such as Laser Lifting and Thread Lift—offer targeted tightening and collagen remodeling, and its plastic surgery unit provides definitive solutions like upper blepharoplasty for persistent heaviness or excess skin. The SH Stem Cell Center’s individualized, comprehensive approach reinforces tissue health and recovery across anti-aging and facial rejuvenation plans, ensuring corrections are part of a broader, long-term strategy. For women seeking coordinated care, the SH Gynecology Clinic adds the convenience and safety of physician-led services within the same facility. This integrated model, spanning regenerative medicine, injectables, skincare, and surgery, allows SH Clinic to diagnose the cause of brow droop accurately and correct it efficiently with the least invasive, most durable option for each patient.
You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website
Cost of Subbrow Lift in South Korea
The typical price for a Subbrow Lift in South Korea ranges from ₩2,000,000 to ₩4,000,000 KRW (about $1,400 to $2,800 USD). Some sources list a higher range up to $3,636 USD. A deposit of around 10% is usually required to secure your booking.
| Procedure Name | Low Price (KRW) | High Price (KRW) | Low Price (USD) | High Price (USD) | Deposit (KRW) | Deposit (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subbrow Lift | ₩2,000,000 | ₩4,000,000 | $1,400 | $2,800 | ₩200,000-₩400,000 | $140-$280 |
*USD conversion based on 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD.
What is Typically Included in the Procedure Cost?
Korean clinics often offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing that covers:
- Pre- and post-surgery consultations
- Pre-operative tests
- Anesthesia and operating room fees
- Post-operative care and follow-up visits
- Short clinic stay after surgery
- Medications
- VAT (which may be refundable for international patients)
Always confirm what’s included with your clinic to avoid surprises.
Comparing Costs: South Korea vs. Other Destinations
| Country | Estimated Cost Range (USD) | Key Inclusions/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea | $1,400 - $3,636 | Includes post-op care, anesthesia, room stay, medications, VAT. Advanced techniques. |
| USA | $2,500 - $15,000 | Varies by city and technique; often excludes anesthesia/facility fees. |
| United Kingdom | $3,700 - $9,300 | Surgical brow lift: £3,000-£6,000; endoscopic: £7,550. |
| Thailand | $1,686 - $8,270 | Packages may include accommodation. |
| Turkey | $1,200 - $4,400 | Some packages include accommodation and transfers. |
| Europe (General) | $7,500 - $15,000 | Higher prices, often for more extensive procedures. |
South Korea offers competitive pricing, especially for the specialized Subbrow Lift technique, and is known for high-quality care.
Factors Influencing the Total Cost
- Surgeon’s experience and reputation
- Complexity and technique of the procedure
- Clinic location and reputation
- Additional procedures (e.g., double eyelid surgery)
- What’s included in the package
- Type of anesthesia
- Whether it’s a primary or revision surgery
Maximizing Value and Planning Your Budget
- Request a detailed, itemized quote
- Include all travel and accommodation costs in your budget
- Plan for the recommended recovery stay in Korea
- Ask about VAT refunds for international patients
Transparent pricing and comprehensive packages make budgeting easier and reduce financial stress for medical tourists.
Patient Experiences: Addressing Drooping Brow with Subbrow Lift
For those dealing with drooping brows—especially after Botox—the Subbrow Lift offers a lasting solution that goes beyond temporary fixes.
Effectiveness of Subbrow Lift for Drooping Brows
While not a direct antidote to Botox, the Subbrow Lift corrects the consequences of Botox-induced brow droop, such as eyelid hooding and heavy brows. By removing excess skin and tightening muscles, it restores a youthful, natural look and can reduce the need for future Botox treatments.
Observed Aesthetic and Functional Improvements
Patients report:
- Smoother, lighter upper eyelids and improved hooding
- Enhanced or more visible double eyelid folds
- Brighter, more alert eyes without a “surprised” look
- Improved peripheral vision and relief from forehead muscle strain
These changes address both cosmetic and functional concerns.
Long-Term Results and Patient Satisfaction
Subbrow Lifts deliver long-lasting results—often a decade or more. Patient reviews frequently mention high satisfaction, natural-looking outcomes, and even reduced need for Botox. The procedure is especially popular among Asian patients due to its tailored approach.
Testimonials and Before-and-After Insights
- “My upper eyelids are smoother and lighter after my sub-brow lift.”
- “After surgery, my double eyelid folds became visible and my eyes look brighter.”
- “The procedure was quick, recovery was easy, and the scars are barely noticeable.”
- “Six weeks post-op, I’m thrilled—no more forehead wrinkles or need for Botox.”
These real-world stories highlight the transformative potential of the Subbrow Lift.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision for Your Aesthetic Journey
A drooping brow after Botox can be distressing, but the effects are temporary and manageable. For those seeking a lasting solution to brow drooping and eyelid hooding, the Subbrow Lift offers natural, long-term results—especially when performed in South Korea, where expertise and patient care are world-class. By choosing a skilled surgeon and planning carefully, you can achieve your aesthetic goals with confidence and peace of mind.
References
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