Brow Height & Shape

What is brow position?

The shape and position of the eyebrows play an important role in facial balance and expression. Even subtle changes in brow shape can influence whether the face appears relaxed, refreshed, tired, sad or concerned. Brow shapenaturally varies between individuals and often changes with age.

What causes changes in brow shape?

Changes in brow shape usually occur as a result of several factors working together, including:

• Individual facial anatomy and genetics.
• The balance and activity of the muscles of the forehead and around the eyes. Some elevate and some pull downward or inwards or outwards.
• Gradual changes in the skin and supporting tissues with age causing the eyebrows to drop down over the ridge of the supportive brow bone.
• Temporal hollowing due to fat loss with age or loss of weight.
• Changes in skin elasticity.
• Previous injury or surgery in some people
• Plucking or tattooing of the eyebrow

The underlying cause varies from person to person, making an individual assessment an important part of the consultation.

Assessment

During your consultation, we’ll assess the position and shape of your eyebrows in relation to your forehead, upper eyelids and the rest of your face. We can establish the contributions of each muscle group on the position of your brows. Various muscles pull and affect the middle, peak and tail position of your brows. We’ll also assess how your facial muscles work during both expression and at rest. Thishelps us understand the underlying cause of your concern and whether management is appropriate for you.

Why assessment is important

Brow shape is influenced by the interaction of several muscles and supporting facial structures. Focusing on the eyebrows alone may not address the underlying cause of the concern and may affect the balance of the upper face or alter facial expression in a way that does not meet your expectations. A careful assessment helps guide appropriate, individualised management.

Individualised management

During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether any management is possible or appropriate for your individual concerns. If so, we’ll explain the available options, together with the expected benefits, limitations and potential risks, so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Prepared by
Dr Simone Doreian
Specialist General Practitioner
AHPRA Registration: MED0001163462