For most of us, our eyes are the first part of our face to reveal signs of aging. Unfortunately, eyes are also one of the most prominent features of our face, and can really affect our appearance. Aging eyes make us look tired, sad and even angry. This can negatively impact our social and professional lives.
Fortunately, blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can greatly improve the appearance of our eyes, making them look young again. In fact, for many years now, eyelid surgery has been one of the most popular surgical cosmetic procedures available. Below explains how blepharoplasty can take years off your appearance.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that is used to improve the appearance of your eyelids. It does this by removing skin from the upper eyelid and removing puffiness and excess skin from the lower eyelid. Though eyelid surgery is sometimes referred to as an eyelid lift, this term is incorrect because the eyelid is not actually lifted at all, though it may look as if it is.
What Exactly Does Blepharoplasty Treat?
When performed without any other procedure, blepharoplasty can treat a variety of issues caused by aging or genetic predisposition, as stated by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons:
- Lower eyelids that are drooping.
- Lower eyelids with excess skin.
- Baggy eyes.
- Loose or sagging skin that can create folds or disturb the natural contour of the upper eyelid. Sometimes this loose or sagging skin can impair your vision.
- Eyelids that have excess fatty deposits and make your eyes look puffy.
What Eyelid Surgery Cannot Treat By Itself
Some people think that eyelid surgery can do more for them than it really can. This can lead to unrealistic hopes for the procedure and disappointing results. It’s best to know what blepharoplasty cannot do for you so that you know what to expect.
Blepharoplasty cannot treat crow’s feet, or fine crepe-like wrinkles around the eyes, by itself. Laser resurfacing, medium strength chemical peels and Botox injections are needed to do this.
Eyelid surgery may also not be able to treat excess upper eyelid skin that is caused by descended eyebrows. You may need an eyebrow lift to correct this problem or improve the results. It’s best to consult with a doctor to find out what would be best for your eyes.
What is the Blepharoplasty Procedure Like?
Eyelid surgery is performed in an outpatient surgery center. During upper blepharoplasty surgery, incisions are made to remove skin and fat. Then, surgeons will use a thin stitch to form an eyelid crease.
During lower eyelid surgery, the surgeon may make incisions below the eyelash line or on the inside of the eyelid, depending on the approach necessary for optimal improvement.
Most of the time, general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation are used. You may speak to Dr. Dayan about what type of anesthesia you prefer before surgery.
What is Blepharoplasty Recovery Like?
You will usually be able to return to work seven to 10 days after your surgery. Heavy exercise is not allowed for approximately two-four weeks. You may experience dry eyes after this plastic surgery procedure, but this should not last for more than two weeks.This procedure is permanent, and it is rare for a patient to need a secondary blepharoplasty.
If you are interested in improving the appearance of your eyes with blepharoplasty or would like to learn more, feel free to contact us today.
If you would like to ask Michelle a question, email: myclinicalteam@drdayan.com with the subject line “Question for Michelle”.
