Raising eyebrows with botulinum toxin

BACKGROUND. Brow elevation rejuvenates the facial appearance. OBJECTIVE. TO determine if a significant degree of brow elevation could be achieved through selective botulinum toxin treatment of brow depressors. METHODS. Seven women aged 31-42 (mean 37) years old were treated. The distance from lowest eyebrow cilium of the eyebrow to the midpupillary point was measured before and 1 month posttreatment. Botulinum toxin was injected into the glabellar area (7-10U) and the supralateral eyebrow (0-2.5U each side), to a total dose of 10-14 U. RESULTS. Five individuals (71%) showed brow elevation of 1-3 mm with a mean elevation of 1 mm. Two individuals showed no change. Concurrent weakening of the frown response was noted in all patients. CONCLUSION. Botulinum toxin treatment of brow depressors produces a small degree of brow elevation in the majority of patients.