The cosmetic surgery business is booming, and many are turning to eyelid surgery to correct sagging, excess skin, under-eye bags, and the signs of aging. You cannot reverse or stop the hands of time. Fortunately, eyelid surgery can rejuvenate your eyes so you can look your best.
What to Know Before Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid surgery can visually reduce the signs of aging and other imperfections in the eye region of your face. During eyelid surgery, an oculoplastic surgeon creates incisions in your eyelids and removes, reshapes, and sculpts muscle, tissue, and skin giving your eyes an instant youthful appearance.
- Eyelid surgery can treat:
- Loose or sagging skin.
- Puffiness.
- Under-eye bags.
- Drooping.
- Excess skin.
- Fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid.
Types of Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery consists of three techniques: upper, lower, and double blepharoplasty. Each procedure is performed to target different problems within the area surrounding your eye.
Upper eyelid (upper blepharoplasty): Targets issues like droopy eyelids, excess skin of the upper eyelid, and puffiness. The only area involved in this procedure is the upper eyelid area.
Lower eyelid (lower blepharoplasty): Corrects under-eye bags, excess skin, fat, and hollowing below your eyes. Only involved the lower eyelid area.
Upper and lower eyelid (double blepharoplasty): Combines upper and lower eyelid surgery for total eye rejuvenation. Addresses areas in the upper and lower eyelid regions.
Procedure
The procedure for each type of eyelid surgery shares many similarities but may vary depending on factors relating to your case, your surgeon, and which technique is being performed. Your medical team will provide any information you need before your procedure. Your surgeon will discuss the best treatment options for your needs before making a decision and taking care of any formalities like insurance.
During your surgery, your surgeon will create incisions in the natural creases of your eyelids. This is to reduce any visible scarring. Your surgeon then removes, sculpts, and reshapes the fat and muscle of the surrounding area through your incisions. Either by sutures or staples, your physician will close the small incisions and conclude your procedure.
Risks and Complications of Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is one of the most common cosmetic enhancements performed today and continues to grow in popularity. Medical professionals have diligently worked to create new techniques to optimize efficiency and the overall outcomes of patients. However, with any procedure, there are some related risks that should be considered before deciding on eyelid surgery:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Dry eyes
- Asymmetry
- Recurrence of excess skin and fat
Eyelid Surgery and Insurance
Before going any further, you should be prepared to cover the cost of the operation, as well as any additional fees. Unless eyelid surgery is deemed medically necessary by a board-certified plastic surgeon, insurance is unlikely to cover the costs of eyelid surgery. If not deemed medically necessary, your eyelid surgery will be considered cosmetic, and therefore, you would have to finance the procedure yourself.
Results of Eyelid Surgery
Many patients who have undergone eyelid surgery experience transformative results that are long-lasting. In the early stages of your recovery, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort. These symptoms wear off quickly, but it can take several months before you entirely recover. The result of eyelid surgery can last many years, but it is important to understand that eyelid surgery does not cure the aging process, and you should still take steps to slow the signs of aging.
Managing Expectations
You must have an honest discussion with an experienced and licensed surgeon before moving forward. Eyelid surgery is a powerful tool to cosmetically enhance your appearance, but managing your expectations is crucial to success. In many cases, patients don’t experience the results they want immediately, or they may be imperfect. By discussing with your physician, you can gain a better understanding of how eyelid surgery can enhance your appearance and any relevant limitations.
What You Should Know Before Eyelid Surgery
By managing expectations, understanding risks, preparing, and making financial preparations, you can make a decision that promises the best outcomes and be on your way to revitalizing your eyes through eyelid surgery. You are encouraged to ask any questions you may have and address any concerns. Educating yourself about eyelid surgery is going to ensure you make the best choice for you.
Visit Your Specialist Today
Schedule a consultation with an experienced oculoplastic surgeon today to discover the revitalizing power of eyelid surgery.
Reference:
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.) What is eyelid surgery?
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty).