What Is Eyebrow Restoration?

Eyebrow restoration is a surgical procedure in which a physician transplants individual hairs from other parts of a patient’s body into her eyebrow area. The goals of eyebrow restoration vary from patient to patient. In some cases the eyebrow must be completely restored, while in other cases the eyebrows simply need to have certain areas filled in. The procedure is permanent, and the new eyebrow hairs will continue to grow and typically need regular trimming and maintenance. The surgery does not require general anesthesia, and patients are typically able to return to normal activities quickly. Discomfort is usually managed with the use of prescription painkillers as well as over-the-counter drugs.

During the procedure, the physician makes tiny incisions along the eyebrow area and inserts hairs that have been removed from the patient's scalp. The amount of hair transplanted during the procedure depends on the extent to which a person is lacking eyebrow hair as well as his or her personal preference. Patients are typically awake during the procedure, though some may choose to undergo some form of sedation during the surgery. The process of eyebrow restoration typically takes anywhere from two to four hours to complete. The healing process is typically short, and while a patient may be instructed to take special care while washing his or her face, any skin discoloration or swelling typically goes away within a few days.

Many people recognize the importance of eyebrows in the overall appearance of a face. Unfortunately, some people are born with a genetic condition that prevents the growth of eyebrow hair or actually causes the eyebrows to fall out. Other medical conditions and the use of some medications may also result in the loss of eyebrow hair. For these people, complete eyebrow restoration can play a significant role in restoring normal appearance. Others who may benefit from eyebrow restoration are those who have lost some eyebrow hair due to an injury or damaged hair follicles caused by plucking, waxing, or electrolysis.

The primary alternatives to eyebrow restoration for those with missing, damaged, or sparse eyebrows include the use of cosmetics as well as tattooing. Both of these options tend to be less expensive than the eyebrow restoration procedure, but may not provide the natural look of an actual hair transplant. In addition, cosmetics typically need to be reapplied every day, and tattoos may also require refreshing on a periodic basis.