As we age, heavy eyelids and deep forehead wrinkles are not caused solely by changes in facial skin. The scalp, which supports the facial tissues from above, also loses elasticity over time and plays a significant role in overall facial aging.

For this reason, treatments designed to improve scalp firmness and lift have recently gained increasing attention.

Like the skin on the face, the scalp also undergoes aging. As collagen and elastin levels decline, the scalp gradually loses elasticity.

When the scalp sags, it provides less support for the facial tissues beneath it, contributing to visible signs of aging. Forehead wrinkles may deepen, and the eyebrows and upper eyelids can descend, making the eyes appear smaller or more tired.

A scalp lifting procedure can help improve these concerns by restoring support from above.

Non-surgical options include radiofrequency (RF) or high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatments, which deliver energy into the deeper layers of the scalp to stimulate collagen production. Another option is thread lifting, in which specialized threads are inserted beneath the scalp to provide mechanical lifting.

For patients seeking more significant correction, surgical scalp lifting may be performed. This procedure involves making small incisions within the hairline or scalp and elevating the underlying tissues and fascia before securing them in a higher position.

Following treatment, patients often notice smoother forehead skin, reduced eyelid heaviness, and brighter, more open-looking eyes.

Recently, Kim Da-ye (33), the wife of Korean comedian Park Soo-hong, revealed on Instagram that she had undergone a scalp lifting laser treatment.

"It was my first scalp lifting laser treatment, and the results were incredible," she wrote. "My eyes look much brighter now."

According to Dr. Kirk of Onul Plastic Surgery, scalp lifting is often chosen when patients want to improve the upper portion of the face rather than the lower face.

"If a patient wants to improve the forehead or eyebrow area, scalp lifting is often an effective option," Dr. Kirk explained.

"We commonly perform it when lifting the forehead, reducing forehead height, or as part of procedures designed to reshape the contour of the upper head."

Because the scalp supports the forehead and eyebrows, treating this area can produce natural-looking rejuvenation without directly operating on the facial skin itself.

As with any cosmetic procedure, scalp lifting carries potential side effects.

Patients may experience temporary pain, redness, swelling, or bruising after treatment, although these symptoms generally improve within several days.

Thread-based procedures may also cause temporary scalp tenderness or the sensation of a foreign body beneath the skin.

Dr. Kirk noted that possible complications include scalp scarring, temporary hair loss, and inflammation.

Because hair follicles can be irritated during treatment, some patients may experience telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair shedding that typically resolves as the scalp heals.

Following treatment, patients are advised to avoid activities that increase body temperature—such as saunas, hot baths, and alcohol consumption—during the early recovery period.

To minimize scalp irritation, hair coloring and perm treatments should generally be postponed for at least two weeks.

Most importantly, patients should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon before treatment to determine the most appropriate procedure based on their individual anatomy and treatment goals.

Source: Chosun Health (June 9, 2026)