As we get older, our eyelids may start to droop and sag, which can cause us to look perpetually tired, angry, stressed, or sad. Aside from cosmetic concerns, sagging eyelids can also cause medical problems that require treatment. Drooping upper eyelids can obstruct or reduce peripheral vision, which may have a negative impact on your ability to do daily activities. Sagging lower eyelids, on the other hand, can cause chronic dry eye if the whites of the eyes are constantly overexposed.
Blepharoplasty, otherwise known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that corrects the upper and/or lower eyelids to restore and improve the look and function of the eyes. Eyelid surgery can successfully treat and correct the following concerns:
• Loose or excess skin and muscle that deform the upper eye contour and sometimes obstruct vision Excess fat on the eyelids that cause a puffy appearance
Undereye bags
• Sagging lower eyelids that expose the white under the iris
• Loose skin and wrinkling on the lower eyelids
What are the benefits of blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery?
There are many benefits when a blepharoplasty procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon. The natural contours of your upper eyes are revealed, leaving you with a more energized and refreshed appearance. Without the undereye bags, puffiness, and loose
skin, your eyes naturally appear brighter, livelier, and more youthful. However, there are other unappreciated advantages, such as:
Improved field of vision Reduced wrinkles on the forehead–when you constantly raise your eyebrows to see more clearly because of drooping upper eyelids, you inadvertently create horizontal lines on your forehead Confidence from looking as great as you actually feel-no more being asked if you‘re tired, sad, or angry even though you actually feel fine
Long-term results that outlast non–surgical eye lifting or skin tightening treatments . Very minimal scarring that is hidden or almost invisible-people will only see you, not the surgery
How long does it take to recover from blepharoplasty?
Because eyelid surgery is a relatively simple and short procedure (it’s usually performed with general or local anesthesia and takes about less than 2 hours to complete), recovery is fairly quick and generally involves only temporary swelling and bruising. There may be some residual pain after the surgery, which can be managed with non-ibuprofen-based pain medication.
Please be sure to carefully follow post-operative instructions to ensure speedy healing and the prevention of complications. You should be able to return to work and participate in social activities within 2 weeks after the procedure
Are there any risks or side effects from eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery, when performed by a qualified plastic or reconstructive surgeon, is overwhelmingly safe and complication-free for the vast majority of patients. However, like all medical procedures, eyelid surgery does carry possible risks such as:
Complications or bad reactions from anesthesia Bleeding Injury to nerves in the eye area Infection Pain Sensitivity to sunlight or bright lights Swelling and bruising (usually temporary) Visible scarring
How long will the results from eyelid surgery last?
Unlike other non-surgical treatments (laser skin rejuvenation, injectable treatments, radiofrequency, etc.), results from eyelid surgery often last between 5 to 7 years, though it can last even longer if you practice healthy lifestyle habits (regular exercise, nutritious diet, no smoking, etc.).
Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
You may be a good candidate for blepharoplasty if:
• You are in good general health with no medical issues that can slow or prevent healing
• You have a significant amount of loose skin in the upper or lower eyelids
• You have excess fat accumulation on the upper eyelids
• You have moderate to severe undereye bags that are not caused by genetics
• You are a non-smoker
