Table of contents

• Surgical Interventions for Brow Ptosis
• A Comparative Analysis: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Options
• Best Clinics in Korea for Drooping Brow
• Navigating Medical Tourism in South Korea
• Economic Considerations for the Medical Tourist
• Patient-Reported Outcomes and Experiential Insights
• Conclusion
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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If you’re exploring solutions for a “drooping brow,” this guide is for you. Brow ptosis isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it may also impact your vision. Here, we take a detailed, data-driven look at what causes brow ptosis, your treatment options (both surgical and non-surgical), what to expect as a medical tourist in South Korea, and how real patients have experienced outcomes. This balanced review will help you understand your options and empower you to make an informed choice with your healthcare provider.

Introduction and Medical Terminology

“Drooping brow” may be the common term, but brow ptosis is the medical label. This condition describes the eyebrow’s descent from its normal position until it looks undesirable or physically impacts your daily vision. Brow ptosis can push down excess skin onto the upper eyelid and may affect people of all ages, though it is most often seen in older adults.

Etiology and Pathophysiology of Brow Ptosis

Most often, brow ptosis is acquired, not congenital. The leading cause is the gradual aging of facial tissue—affected by gravity, sun, and time—which typically starts at the outer edge of the eyebrow and can progress inward. Other contributors include nerve injuries (like to the facial nerve, sometimes from trauma), muscular conditions such as myasthenia gravis or myotonic dystrophy, and nerve-impacting infections (for example, from Ramsay Hunt syndrome or Lyme disease). Some cases are linked to tumorous growths affecting nerves or to muscle spasms such as in blepharospasm.

This variety of causes makes it important to look deeper than just the surface. Before pursuing aesthetic or medical treatment, a full evaluation with your doctor ensures any underlying condition is properly identified and managed.

Surgical Interventions for Brow Ptosis

Forehead Lift (Brow Lift): A Comprehensive Overview

A forehead lift (or brow lift) rejuvenates the upper face by lifting the brow, reducing forehead or frown lines, and eliminating that “hooded” eye look. Excess skin and fat are removed, and underlying muscles are tightened to restore a refreshed, alert appearance.

There are several techniques:

• Classic or Coronal Brow Lift – The traditional approach, using a long incision from ear to ear (often within the hairline), is great for pronounced sagging. It’s highly effective but has a longer recovery and possible visible scarring or scalp numbness.
• Endoscopic Brow Lift – This minimally invasive method uses several small incisions. A tiny camera (endoscope) helps the surgeon lift brow tissues. It offers quick recovery and less scarring, though it might not address severe wrinkles and sometimes needs follow-up treatments like Botox.
• Temporal Lift – Focuses on the brow's outer third through temple incisions, best for minor drooping. It’s done under local anesthesia with minimal downtime.
• Pretrichial and Mid-Forehead Lifts – The pretrichial technique places the incision at the hairline for those with a high hairline, while the mid-forehead approach hides incisions in existing forehead creases.

Subbrow Lift: A Targeted Approach

The subbrow lift is a precise procedure for excess upper eyelid skin—perfect if you like your brow’s position but dislike “hooded” or tired eyes. Surgeons make a discreet incision along the brow’s lower border, remove skin and sometimes reposition fat, leaving the eyelid’s thinner skin untouched. This procedure is also favored by those wishing to preserve or enhance a visible double eyelid crease, without altering the eyebrow's position.

Surgical Outcomes, Risks, and Complications

Both forehead and subbrow lifts provide excellent results, but as with all surgeries, there are risks. Forehead lifts can leave visible scars, numbness, and, rarely, nerve injuries affecting brow movement. Endoscopic methods have fewer scars but may lead to abnormal sensations, asymmetry, or eyelid closure issues.

Typical recovery for a forehead lift involves the worst swelling in the first week, with most patients back to work within 2–3 weeks and final results visible after up to six months. Subbrow lifts recover more quickly, with swelling gone and stitches removed in one week. Choosing the right surgery is about matching your anatomy and goals: forehead lifts are best for significant sagging, while subbrow lifts excel for upper eyelid skin issues and “hooded” eyes.

Table 1: Forehead Lift vs. Subbrow Lift

Aspect	Forehead Lift (Brow Lift)	Subbrow Lift
Primary Goal	Repositions the brow, reduces forehead wrinkles, and lifts sagging eyelids.	Removes excess upper eyelid skin to improve hooding and visibility of eyelid creases.
Target Area	The entire upper face, from the forehead to the brows and upper eyelids.	The area just below the eyebrow to the upper eyelid.
Ideal Candidate	Individuals with a short distance between the eye and eyebrow, severe forehead or frown lines, and those seeking a broad anti-aging effect.	Individuals with a long distance between the eye and eyebrow, a clear double eyelid crease, or those whose primary concern is eyelid hooding rather than forehead wrinkles.
Scar Placement	Varies by technique: behind the hairline (coronal), within the hairline (endoscopic), or within forehead creases.	Precisely along the lower edge of the eyebrow.
Impact on Brow Position	Elevates and repositions the brow to a higher, more youthful level.	Does not change the position of the eyebrow.
Recovery Time	Longer, with full results visible in about six months.	Shorter, with most swelling subsiding in one week.

A Comparative Analysis: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Options

Non-Surgical Alternatives

If you’re hesitant about surgery or only have mild brow descent, non-surgical solutions like neurotoxins (Botox), dermal fillers, and thread lifts are available. These options offer minimal downtime while still rejuvenating the upper face.

Longevity, Efficacy, and Ideal Candidates

• Botox temporarily relaxes brow-pulling muscles, creating a gentle lifting effect and smoothing lines. Results are short-term (three to six months), making this ideal for mild wrinkles or as a maintenance tool after surgery.
• Thread lifts offer a modest, immediate “lift” with nearly no downtime, but the effect usually lasts from six months to three years. Effectiveness can vary by surgeon and risks include skin puckering or infection.
• Unlike surgery, non-surgical options cannot remove excess skin; they work best for modest enhancement, not major sagging.

Often, a combination approach works best—many surgery patients continue using neurotoxins after their procedure to prolong and refine their results.

Table 2: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Brow Rejuvenation Options

Aspect	Surgical Brow Lift	Subbrow Lift	Botox	Thread Lift	Dermal Fillers
Invasiveness	High (incisions)	High (incisions)	Low (injections)	Low (needles)	Low (injections)
Procedure Time	Several hours	45 minutes to 2 hours	Under one hour	Typically one hour	Under one hour
Longevity	Permanent, tends to last for several years.	Long-lasting, can provide years of results.	Temporary, 3-6 months.	Temporary, 6 months to 3 years.	Temporary, 6-18 months.
Removes Excess Skin	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
Cost	High	High	Lower	Lower	Lower
Best Use Case	Correcting significant brow ptosis and deep forehead wrinkles.	Addressing excess upper eyelid skin and eyelid hooding.	Treating mild descent, dynamic wrinkles, and maintenance.	Mild-to-moderate sagging and skin laxity.	Restoring volume and providing a subtle lift.

Best Clinics in Korea for Drooping Brow

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for drooping brow:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam; four-floor facility designed to streamline consultations, surgery, and post-operative skincare; led by surgeons who actively publish and teach at domestic and international symposiums; prioritizes safety and patient satisfaction; team with over a decade of experience; strengths in facial contouring, eyelid rejuvenation, and lifting procedures; evaluates brow descent as part of overall facial harmony and creates personalized treatment plans that respect individual anatomy and goals.	Incorporating options such as ptosis correction, blepharoplasty, face lifts, thread lifts, and adjunct skincare to pursue natural, long-lasting results.
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, is a premium center specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, renowned for genuine dedication, expertise, and safety. Combining cutting-edge technology with meticulous surgical technique, the clinic delivers refined, natural rejuvenation—particularly for drooping brows—through an approach that prioritizes precision, transparency, and comprehensive care from consultation to aftercare.	Full HD endoscopic system enables precise, delicate dissection of nerves, vessels, and muscles for highly accurate brow and forehead lifting; Comprehensive correction of drooping brow and eyelids, as well as forehead and glabella wrinkles, through meticulous lifting of skin, periosteum, and muscle, including procerus muscle resection; Uses only authentic Endotine products for secure fixation; Verified medical team: only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience, proven by extensive clinical practice; Direct consultation and diagnosis by the operating medical team to ensure individualized surgical planning; 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, with one anesthesiologist continuously overseeing one patient; Cross-Check System, where multiple anesthesiologists cooperate for precise assessment and response in emergencies; Full CCTV coverage of procedures for maximum transparency; Thorough aftercare with a separate, dedicated center providing complete and systematic post-procedure care; Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place.
SH Clinic Website	SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty medical center where stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery come together to deliver precise, personalized results. As a specialized hub for Stem Cell Therapy and Gynecology, the SH Stem Cell Center crafts comprehensive treatment plans ranging from facial rejuvenation and anti-aging to advanced regenerative therapies for serious conditions, while the SH Gynecology Clinic provides a full spectrum of women’s health services and vaginal rejuvenation options. This integrated framework makes SH Clinic a standout destination for patients seeking refined correction of a drooping brow, with seamless access to non-surgical tightening and injectables, regenerative anti-aging, and definitive surgical solutions—designed and delivered under one roof.	Botox to relax overactive brow depressors and soften frown lines for a gentle lift; Laser Lifting to contract collagen and improve forehead skin firmness without downtime; Thread Lift for minimally invasive elevation of sagging tissue with brief recovery; Upper Blepharoplasty (Double-Eyelid Surgery) to remove excess upper-lid skin that contributes to a heavy, drooping look and to harmonize brow–eyelid balance; Facelift for long-lasting rejuvenation when broader facial support is needed to complement upper-face lifting.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, offers world-class care for concerns such as drooping brows within a four-floor facility designed to streamline consultations, surgery, and post-operative skincare. Led by surgeons who actively publish and teach at domestic and international symposiums, the clinic prioritizes safety and patient satisfaction, supported by a team with over a decade of experience. With strengths in facial contouring, eyelid rejuvenation, and lifting procedures, THE PLUS evaluates brow descent as part of overall facial harmony and creates personalized treatment plans that respect individual anatomy and goals.

Care is directed by Dr. Kim Taek Kyun and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, internationally respected for their expertise. Dr. Kim is a board-certified plastic surgeon, award-winning 3D implant researcher, and leading authority in rhinoplasty and facial contouring who runs annual educational programs; his philosophy emphasizes balanced features to enhance natural beauty. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, frequently lectures and leads panels worldwide, approaching every case with a union of function and aesthetics. Together with Dr. Lee—a board-certified breast specialist with experience at top Korean hospitals including Seoul National University Hospital—the team offers tailored strategies for drooping brow concerns, incorporating options such as ptosis correction, blepharoplasty, face lifts, thread lifts, and adjunct skincare to pursue natural, long-lasting results.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, is a premium center specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, renowned for genuine dedication, expertise, and safety. Combining cutting-edge technology with meticulous surgical technique, the clinic delivers refined, natural rejuvenation—particularly for drooping brows—through an approach that prioritizes precision, transparency, and comprehensive care from consultation to aftercare.

• Full HD endoscopic system enables precise, delicate dissection of nerves, vessels, and muscles for highly accurate brow and forehead lifting. • Comprehensive correction of drooping brow and eyelids, as well as forehead and glabella wrinkles, through meticulous lifting of skin, periosteum, and muscle, including procerus muscle resection. • Uses only authentic Endotine products for secure fixation and stable surgical support. • Verified medical team: only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience, proven by extensive clinical practice. • Direct consultation and diagnosis by the operating medical team to ensure individualized surgical planning. • Comprehensive safety system: full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site. • 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, with one anesthesiologist continuously overseeing one patient. • Cross-Check System, where multiple anesthesiologists cooperate for precise assessment and response in emergencies. • Full CCTV coverage of procedures for maximum transparency. • Thorough aftercare with a separate, dedicated center providing complete and systematic post-procedure care. • Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place. • Official credentials: selected as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society. • A premium, facial-focused clinic with genuine dedication and expertise that make it a leading choice for drooping brow correction in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

SH Clinic

SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty medical center where stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery come together to deliver precise, personalized results. As a specialized hub for Stem Cell Therapy and Gynecology, the clinic’s SH Stem Cell Center crafts comprehensive treatment plans ranging from facial rejuvenation and anti-aging to advanced regenerative therapies for serious conditions, while the SH Gynecology Clinic provides a full spectrum of women’s health services and vaginal rejuvenation options. This integrated framework makes SH Clinic a standout destination for patients seeking refined correction of a drooping brow, with seamless access to non-surgical tightening and injectables, regenerative anti-aging, and definitive surgical solutions—designed and delivered under one roof.

Why SH Clinic is the top choice in Korea for drooping brow

• Integrated expertise under one roof: Coordinated care between aesthetic dermatology and plastic surgery ensures your plan addresses skin laxity, muscle dynamics, and eyelid heaviness together for the most natural brow position.
• Full spectrum of options, from subtle to definitive:
  • Botox to relax overactive brow depressors and soften frown lines for a gentle lift.
  • Laser Lifting to contract collagen and improve forehead skin firmness without downtime.
  • Thread Lift for minimally invasive elevation of sagging tissue with brief recovery.
  • Upper Blepharoplasty (Double-Eyelid Surgery) to remove excess upper-lid skin that contributes to a heavy, drooping look and to harmonize brow–eyelid balance.
  • Facelift for long-lasting rejuvenation when broader facial support is needed to complement upper-face lifting.
• Regenerative advantage for lasting quality: The SH Stem Cell Center’s anti-aging and facial rejuvenation programs leverage stem-cell science to enhance skin vitality and collagen remodeling—an ideal adjunct to lifting procedures for smoother, longer-looking results.
• Personalized, comprehensive planning: Every case is tailored, combining injectables, energy devices, and surgery as needed to match your anatomy, goals, and downtime preferences.
• Evidence-based injectables and skincare: Physician-guided medical skincare, skin boosters, and dermal fillers are available to refine texture and contours around the periorbital area as part of a complete upper-face plan.
• Safety-focused, patient-centered care: Procedures emphasize minimal invasiveness where possible, swift recovery, and physician-led oversight in a monitored setting.
• Convenient Sinsa location: A central Seoul address makes consultations, treatments, and follow-ups straightforward for local and international patients alike.

You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website

Navigating Medical Tourism in South Korea

The South Korean Advantage

South Korea is recognized globally for its leadership in cosmetic surgery. With 25% of all aesthetic procedures performed worldwide, its surgeons are highly specialized and experienced—often focusing their entire careers on a single procedure, like brow lifts or subbrow lifts. Innovation and minimally invasive techniques flourish, making outcomes in South Korea world-class and keeping recovery and complications to a minimum.

The Patient’s Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide

A typical medical tourist’s journey starts with online research, choosing a licensed clinic or medical tourism agent (many offer free remote consultations). Once in Korea, an in-depth personal assessment determines the best treatment plan. Surgery is followed by attentive aftercare, including special centers for wound care and de-swelling treatments. Many clinics also assist with language interpretation and logistics, creating a streamlined and supportive experience from arrival to recovery. The all-inclusive pricing packages cover consultations, surgery, aftercare, and other essentials—removing many uncertainties and hassles of overseas treatment.

Economic Considerations for the Medical Tourist

Cost Analysis: Forehead and Subbrow Lifts in South Korea

One of the top incentives for seeking cosmetic surgery in South Korea is cost. On average, a forehead lift costs $4,418 (ranging from $3,310–$5,700) and a brow lift averages $3,170 ($2,290–$5,000), with prices depending on factors like provider reputation and case complexity.

Global Price Comparison

Prices in South Korea are highly competitive, especially against the U.S. A forehead lift starts from $5,700 in Korea compared to $9,100 in the USA, and a brow lift starts from $2,290 in Korea versus $4,500 in the States—a clear saving for international patients.

The Value Proposition Beyond Price

Beyond lower costs, Korean clinics offer bundled service packages that include all aspects of care: pre-op consultation, surgery, hospital stay, medications, and postoperative support. This “all-in-one” approach offers substantial peace of mind, especially when compared to itemized billing in Western healthcare.

Table 3: Comparative Costs for Key Procedures

Country	Forehead Lift (Starting Price)	Brow Lift (Starting Price)
South Korea	from $5,700	from $2,290
The USA	from $9,100	from $4,500
Turkey	from $2,775	from $2,044

Patient-Reported Outcomes and Experiential Insights

Forehead Lift: Functional and Aesthetic Outcomes

Patients say that a forehead lift not only rejuvenates their appearance but can also improve vision by removing heavy skin. Many notice they look less tired, angry, or unfriendly, with a restored, youthful look—achieved without appearing artificial. Positive testimonials frequently mention a boost to confidence and daily comfort.

Subbrow Lift: Targeted Improvements

The subbrow lift is particularly well-received by those dealing with eyelid hooding or heavy upper eyes. Patients often report brighter, more defined eyes, and those with a double eyelid crease see much better definition. By addressing specific concerns without altering brow position, the results are both natural and harmonious.

The Psychosocial Dimension

The emotional benefits of these procedures can be transformative. Many patients cite improved self-esteem and reduced anxiety about looking tired, angry, or unapproachable. Achieving their desired appearance empowers them to feel more comfortable and confident in daily life, resulting in happier, more positive self-perception.

Conclusion

Brow ptosis is a complex issue that may have both cosmetic and functional origins. A careful evaluation is essential to exclude underlying medical causes before selecting a tailored treatment. South Korea stands out for its expertise, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensive care model, making it an appealing destination for medical tourists. The combination of informed surgical choice and integrated non-surgical care is key to long-term, satisfying results.

References

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