J Cosmet Med.  2020 Jun;4(1):29-35. 10.25056/JCM.2020.4.1.29.

Periorbital changes in patients with Poly(Lactic Acid/ Caprolactone) threads for brow augmentation

• Lam PKW
• Luk WL

• KMID: 2561090
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.25056/JCM.2020.4.1.29

Abstract

Background
Overlooked compensatory brow ptosis can lead to patients dissatisfaction and poor surgical results.
Objective
To evaluate the quantitative changes in periorbital dimensions in 11 patients with mild to moderate brow ptosis after browlift with Poly(Lactic Acid/Caprolactone) (P[LA/CL]) sutures. Method: Retrospective analysis and data collected from reviewing clinical records, 11 patients, with mild to moderate brow ptosis, whom only has P(LA/CL) browlift, fulfilled the criteria and included in the analysis. All patients had 2-dimensional clinical photos and 3-dimensional clinical pictures in 5 standard views at baseline and follow-up. All periorbital measurements determined by the computer and collected for analysis.
Results
There was a significant difference in all periorbital measurements at 4 to 6 months’ follow-up when compared with baseline (p<0.05). Moderate lifting refers to changes in brow height of at least 2 mm at follow-up. A higher proportion of patients with moderate brow lift were able to achieve moderate lifting compared with mild brow ptosis. Moderate lifting is observed in 30% to 60% medial brow and 45% to 60% lateral brow for patients with moderate brow ptosis compared with 25% in those with mild brow ptosis. Infection, significant bruising, or scarring did not occur. Transient side effects, such as bruising and dimpling, eventually resolved.
Conclusion
Preoperative examination is vital to identify pre-existing compensatory brow ptosis. P(LA/CL) thread-lifting for brow augmentation is a simple and effective procedure which can be used as an adjunct to upper eyelid surgery to prevent secondary brow ptosis following eyelid surgery and in turn, improve patients’ satisfaction.

Keyword

brow ptosis; face lift; periorbital rejuvenation; thread lifting