The Fox Eye & Forehead Lift is a refined temporal lifting procedure that addresses two of the most visible markers of facial aging in one elegant operation. By elevating the lateral brow and outer canthal area, it creates the naturally elongated, upswept eye shape commonly described as the "fox eye" — a look associated with youth, alertness, and striking definition. Simultaneously, releasing and re-draping the forehead tissue smooths transverse forehead creases without the frozen appearance that can result from Botox overuse.
Signs You May Benefit
The eyes and forehead are often the first areas to show aging. This procedure addresses:
• Lateral brow descent making eyes appear hooded or heavy • Drooping outer corners of the eye creating a tired or sad expression • Persistent horizontal forehead lines that Botox no longer adequately controls • Asymmetric brow position • A desire for a sharper, more defined eye shape without eyelid surgery • Downward-slanting outer eye corners (as opposed to the upswept fox-eye ideal)
Dr. Tak's Approach — Anatomical Precision
Dr. Tak's Fox Eye & Forehead Lift uses a temporal hairline incision approach, allowing precise control over the degree of lateral brow elevation and the vector of pull. Unlike the direct brow lift (which leaves visible scars above the brow) or the coronal lift (which requires a scalp incision stretching ear to ear), the temporal approach achieves focused, natural lateral elevation through a well-concealed incision within the hairline.
The forehead component addresses the frontalis muscle insertion through the same access, smoothing forehead lines by mild myotomy of the corrugator and procerus muscles where indicated — reducing the muscular cause of lines rather than just paralyzing them.
Procedure Overview
Small incisions are placed within the temporal hairline on both sides. Through these incisions, the temporal fascia is accessed and the lateral brow fat pad is elevated in the subgaleal or subperiosteal plane. The outer brow and forehead tissue is repositioned superiorly and fixed with absorbable anchor sutures. The forehead skin is re-draped smoothly and sutured under minimal tension. Total operating time is approximately 90–120 minutes under IV sedation.
Ideal Candidates
• Adults experiencing lateral brow descent and eye heaviness • Those who want a more defined, almond-shaped eye contour • Patients with persistent forehead lines seeking a longer-lasting alternative to repeated Botox • Individuals with naturally downward-slanting outer eye corners • Those who have had blepharoplasty but feel the outer eye area still looks heavy • Patients who want a subtle, natural-looking enhancement rather than dramatic change
Recovery Timeline
Initial swelling around the eyes and temples is most pronounced during the first 5–7 days. Bruising in the brow and upper eyelid region typically resolves within 2 weeks. Sutures in the hairline are removed at 7–10 days. Temporary scalp numbness or a sensation of tightness in the temple area is normal and resolves within 4–8 weeks. Most patients return to social activities within 2–3 weeks, with final brow position and forehead smoothing fully established at 3 months.