Dr. Sam Lam Plastic Surgery Forum

Dear Dr. Lam,
I am an asian female turning 18 this year. During the past year I've noticed that my eyes make me look very lazy and tired. My friends ask me why I'm frowning sometimes. I don't want to appear mean or angry so I constantly try to raise my brows and I force my eyes wide open. I think this is why I have headaches everyday and I feel a lot of pressure around my forehead. It's very discomforting in school because of the tension. My brows feel loose and heavy as well. I was wondering if I'm too young to have any kind surgery done to my eyes. I want to look bright and awake naturally without forcing myself.

1) Am I eligible for a brow lift?
2) Should I wait until I'm older?
3) Are there any other options?
4) Is this normal for someone my age?

Hi,
Categorically, I am opposed to browlifts now in any female/male of any age period. They are unnecessary and ugly in almost any individual. I have not done one in over 3 years. If you do not have a crease in your upper eyelid and therefore look a bit "sleepy", then a crease formation or "double eyelid" could be helpful for you IF you want that look. Beyond that, I rarely offer any young person your age further treatments because most don't need it. Plus, you are a young age and decisions and tastes change as well as further changes with aging. I would state I don't want to be categorical in this matter. I would advise you to see a plastic surgeon and possibly psychiatrist to help you. The only fear I have is that a lot of PS's are unethical and also unskilled in delivering surgery to a young person.

As a teenager, we go through a lot of criticism and a lot of commentary from our peers that for the most part are simply rude and callous and really we may regret pursuing plastic surgery. I don't know your situation and offering advice to someone young like yourself in a vague forum like this is always dangerous and not wise. I would have you speak with your parents or someone that loves you to help you make some worthwhile decisions about your future and your face. As I stated, a lot of peers tend to be a bad resource for information because they oftentimes make comments that are callous, rude, or plain stupid. I hope that I have been helpful and not hurtful.
best,
sml

Thanks for your reply Dr. Lam!

You are most welcome!
SML