Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery performed to remove excess fat and skin around the eyelids. The main aim of this procedure is to improve the hooded or drooping eyelids or eye bags.
Eyelids are the most prone parts when aging symptoms kick in. Wrinkles, fine lines, saggy skin, and excess fats can easily rob you of your beauty. For that reason, specialists have combined multiple technological knowledge to fix the upper and lower eyelids for an improved appearance. Read on and learn more.
Who Fits for Eyelid Surgery?
You can undergo eyelid surgery for several conditions; some are health-related, like peripheral vision. But other reasons are cosmetically related to improving self-esteem. So, you fit for the eyelid surgery if:
- You have loose or sagging skin that forms folds and tampers with the natural contour of the eyelids.
- You have fatty deposits under the eyelid that appears like puffiness.
- You have bugs under the eyes.
- You have droopy upper eyelids that disrupt your vision.
- You have drooping lower eyelids that uncover the white part below the iris.
- You have wrinkles around the lower eyelids.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
One of the critical eyelid surgery benefits is open sightlines that improve vision. Secondly, you get younger-looking eyes to improve your self-esteem. Third, you will have more visible expressions that make your face friendly and attractive.
What to Do Before the Surgery
Everything in life requires preparation. Before scheduling blepharoplasty, you need to meet a healthcare provider. Healthcare providers can specifically be ophthalmologists specializing in plastic surgeries around the eyes (oculoplastic surgeons).
The main agenda of meeting the healthcare provider in person is to discuss your goals. It would be best if you had clear goals on what you need after the surgery. Secondly, you should present your medical history to the surgeon to determine if you are fit for the procedure.
Eyelid Surgery Procedure
Eyelid surgery is done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. You can have upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. Upper eyelid surgery involves making an incision around the eyelid crease in the upper skin fold. Then, excess skin and fats are removed, and the surrounding muscles are tightened. Finally, the incision is closed, and the scar is hidden under the fold.
On the other hand, the incision is made below the eyelashes or inside the lower eyelid. Excess fats and bugs under the eye are removed, and the skin and muscles are tightened. Finally, the incision is closed, and the scar is hidden under the natural skin folds.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery and Self-Care Practices
After the surgery, expect some swelling and discomfort around the eyes for a few days. Other issues you may face are eye dryness. It’s recommendable to remain at home for seven to ten days before resuming normal activities.
Below, you can read self-care practices for fast recovery.
Ideally, pop your head with a pillow to reduce the swelling. Clean the eyelid as instructed by the surgeon and use cold packs for a few days to quicken the recovery process. Also, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind.
On the other hand, avoid strenuous activities and swimming. Additionally, don’t smoke or rub your eyes. Always contact the surgeon in case of severe pain or swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?
The average cost of eyelid surgery is $4,120, according to a recent report released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Most plastic surgeries are for cosmetic reasons, so you may not get the services in government hospitals. Usually, they are done in private clinics and as outpatient procedures.
How Do I Find the Right Surgeon for My Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery requires an experienced and certified surgeon. As such, you can carry out the following process when finding the right surgeon:
- Search online or ask for recommendations from colleagues or friends. This will minimize the chances of meeting unqualified surgeons who may ruin your beauty instead of restoring it.
- Visit the surgeon and ask for their qualifications. Ideally, the surgeon should have board certification and other necessary documents to prove their expertise. Also, check their clinic license.
- Request pictures of the most successful surgeries they have performed before and check for reviews from past patients to prove you are consulting a competent surgeon.
- Ask every question that you have regarding your health and safety.
How Long Does it Take to Recover From an Eyelid Surgery?
Most people resume normal activities in ten to fourteen days. However, the appearance around the eyelids may improve until three months after the surgery.
How Long Do Eyelid Lifts Last?
The upper eyelid surgery can last for around seven years, while the lower eyelid surgery results are permanent. After several years, many people report their upper eyelid skin starting to sag once again as aging continues.