Abstract Listings 2024

Purpose

To systematically analyze the surgical/fixation methods for brow lifts, specifically examining outcomes of elevation, duration, and safety.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis using the PubMed database included studies in English and an Oxford Center for Evidence-based Medicine Level of at least IV. Inclusion required analysis of surgical/fixation techniques and use of clearly-stated quantitative measurements. Brow elevation was analyzed in relation to surgical and fixation techniques. Pooled complication rates were generated.

Results

Nine articles comprising 15 cohorts and 688 patients were included. Fourteen cohorts were post-trichial and one was pre-trichial. Nine cohorts used sutures, four used Endotines, one used fibrin, and one did not specify a fixation method. For the 15 cohorts included, the pooled estimate showed a significant increase in brow height (mean difference = 3.59 mm, 95% CI: 2.83 to 4.34, p < 0.0001) with a pooled average follow up of 17.1 months (pooled range: 8.5 months to 5 years). Substantial heterogeneity was observed among the studies (I² = 96.19%, Q = 813.36, p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in brow elevation between surgical and fixation techniques. Pooled incidence rates for dysesthesia, infection, hematoma, and alopecia were 6.05%, 0.74%, 0.59%, and 0.08%, respectively.

Conclusion

These findings support significant brow lift efficacy over a period of over 17 months. The substantial heterogeneity observed suggests considerable variability in outcomes, which may be attributed to differences in surgical techniques. The generally low pooled complication rates indicate a favorable safety profile. These findings provide valuable insights into the long-term outcomes of brow lifts.

Additional Authors

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