I Experimented with a Botox Brow Lift for My Hooded Eyes—Here's Why I Won't Regret It

      As I grew up, I always appreciated my hooded eyes. However, due to a naturally thicker brow and deep-set eyes, I've started to notice some signs of aging in my early thirties, with a bit more drooping around my outer eyes than before—something no eye cream or microcurrent device seems able to rectify. While it’s not extreme hooding and not particularly noticeable in the mirror, I've realized that, in photographs, my eyes appear smaller, more squinty, and less alert when I smile. My eye makeup doesn't apply as smoothly as it used to either. Though it’s not a major issue, I often feel I look more fatigued than I actually am. I had previously tried a few treatments for my hooded eyes, including Sofwave and some Botox around my eyes, but had not yet experienced a Botox brow lift. Therefore, I decided to consult with Dr. Elizabeth Hawkes, a consultant ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon, to explore the treatment for myself. If you're contemplating a Botox brow lift, continue reading for key information you need to know.

      What is a Botox Brow Lift?

      "Botox is a neuromodulator that operates at the neuromuscular junction, inhibiting muscle contraction," explains Dr. Hawkes. "It acts as an anti-wrinkle injection to minimize line formation and is commonly used around the eyes. Additionally, it can assist with hooded eyes and brow lifting. It can subtly adjust the brow and upper eye area to better frame the face while softly diminishing lines without affecting facial expressions," she notes. "While Botox can't eliminate excess skin in the upper eyelids (only a surgical procedure known as an upper blepharoplasty can remove excess skin), when placed strategically, it can lift the eyebrows, a process often referred to as a chemical brow lift," she mentions.

      In a Botox brow lift, the practitioner typically addresses the glabellar complex (the area between the eyebrows) and the upper part of the orbicularis oculi (the muscle surrounding the eye). "The goal of a non-surgical brow lift with neuromodulators is to relax the brow depressor muscles, especially the glabellar complex and the upper orbicularis oculi," says Dr. Hawkes. However, an experienced practitioner will customize the dosage and placement based on your facial anatomy. "The treatment is always personalized," she emphasizes. "The dose and placement vary based on the patient's anatomy and desired lift. Sometimes, a small amount can be injected into the frontalis (the brow elevator), but precision is essential, as over-treatment may lead to a heavy appearance. It is very much a tailored approach."

      Who is It Suitable For?

      A Botox brow lift can be ideal for individuals seeking a more rejuvenated eye area, particularly those with hooded eyes. It serves as a good preliminary option before considering surgical treatments like an upper blepharoplasty. "Some patients may have very mild hooding that can be addressed with Botox without surgery; however, a consultation is crucial," says Dr. Hawkes. "Many patients choose the injectable route as a way to gauge how they might look and potentially delay surgery for a few years," she adds. "Results can vary, but most patients experience a slight lift of about 1-2mm. Although this seems minimal, it can significantly enhance appearance, making the eyes look fresher and more open. However, managing expectations is vital, as it won't achieve the same results as a surgical procedure. An upper blepharoplasty offers a more dramatic and structural change, especially when excess skin is present. Yet, surgery isn't suitable for everyone," explains Dr. Hawkes. "In younger patients, we often prefer non-surgical options initially. A neuromodulator brow lift can provide a gentle elevation and improve the look of hooded lids, but expectations should be realistic. It complements rather than substitutes surgery," she mentions. Botox can also correct brow or eyelid asymmetry to create better balance around the eyes.

      How Long Does It Last?

      The effects of Botox typically manifest within one to two days, but full results are generally noticeable within one to two weeks post-treatment, according to Dr. Hawkes. "Botox usually wears off in about 12 weeks, but many patients see results extending four to six weeks beyond that, influenced by individual factors like metabolism and muscle activity," she explains. You'll be pleased to know that a Botox brow lift is associated with minimal discomfort compared to other aesthetic procedures and involves minimal to no downtime. "It's regarded as a low-pain procedure, with most patients rating discomfort around one out of ten and no significant downtime," she says. "Small bumps might appear at the injection sites immediately after treatment, but they typically resolve within 15 minutes. Like most injectable treatments, there is a slight risk of bruising, but it is usually minimal."

      Aftercare

      Post-treatment downtime is minimal, allowing you to return