Over time, there are complications that may occur in the appearance and functionality of the eyelids. Saggy or droopy eyelids can often make someone look older than they really are and can substantially impair their vision. This tends to put a dent in their self-esteem and can make menial tasks, like driving, more difficult because of their hindered eyesight. In addition to droopy eyelids, wrinkles and puffy eyebags can add to self-consciousness for a lot of people. Thankfully, eyelid surgery can relieve these issues.

What Eyelid Surgery Can Correct

Sagging eyelids can make you look older than you are and even hinder the functionality of your eyesight. The ideal way to correct these issues is eyelid surgery, otherwise known as a ‘blepharoplasty.’

A blepharoplasty can improve the appearance and functionality of the eyelids and make living more comfortable for the long term. Typically, people in their 50’s and up tend to undergo the procedure, but these problems can often affect people as young as 35 years old. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking can play a big role in how old someone is when these problems begin to become noticeable. When people hear “eyelid,” they typically think of the upper lids, but this surgery is commonly performed on the bottom lids too. It is great for treating eye bags, wrinkles, and puffiness that may create a tired or fatigued look, even when you are feeling neither.

The Two Main Types of Eyelid Surgeries

There are two main types of eyelid surgeries: upper and lower. The surgeries are also commonly done together, to provide harmony and get a full facial refresh.

People that are interested in an upper eyelid surgery are often trying to correct heavy or droopy lids that may be caused by excess skin tissue or the brows resting too much on the eyes (or even both). Some people simply want to reduce the appearance of aging and get the surgery to correct dark circles and wrinkles, and sometimes remove excess fat. Upper eyelid surgery is typically done in an outpatient setting. Beforehand, the surgeon will inject numbing medication into the eyelids and introduce IV sedation for additional relaxation. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision along the eyelid folds, remove excess skin tissue, muscle, and fat, repositions what they have to, and then closes the incision.

The lower eyelids are very thin and more susceptible to the effects of gravity as we age. Since they transcend into the cheeks, when the cheek structure begins to droop, it gives way to the bony rim of the eye socket. This can be a real giveaway to someone’s age. The surgery processes for upper and lower blepharoplasty are the same as each other, just in different areas. Both surgeries can take around an hour to perform, and when done together will be around 2 hours. Within a week of the surgery, most people can resume their normal activities, and after around 2 weeks, most swelling and bruising will be resolved.

Pros

• Improved vision.
• Removal of excess skin and fat.
• Relieves puffiness around the eyes.
• Patient will look more awake and attentive.
• Relatively quick recovery time.

Cons

• Small chance to remove too much skin, which can cause difficulty in closing the eye(s).
• Scars are permanent but will be hidden in the natural creases of the lids, so they are not noticeable.

Commonly, a brow lift (or forehead lift) is done alongside a blepharoplasty, to further refresh the appearance of the upper part of the face. In a brow lift, excess skin tissue is removed, and the sagging brows are repositioned to make the forehead smoother and reduce wrinkles and lines. If the brows are pushing into the upper eyelid area, causing vision impairment, the patient may not even need an eyelid surgery, just a brow lift. Though, to get the proper procedure done, you should consult with a trusted and highly qualified surgeon for the best eyelid surgery results.

One such facial plastic surgeon is Dr. Joseph Russell, who is an expert in this subtle procedure. From his time in a fellowship, he has obtained a wealth of knowledge and valuable insight into performing a masterful blepharoplasty. From the consultation, he can provide excellent insight into his patients’ needs and properly determine the best route to take in his procedures. This is a matter he takes very seriously when executing his craft and treats each individual with the same level of care and quality. He is transparent and informative when working with patients to deliberate the best course of action and does not sugar coat the procedure. Call (843) 576-3302 today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to better vision and confidence in the mirror.