Over time, the skin on your upper eyelid stretches, loses its natural elasticity, and the muscles supporting them weaken. The result is often drooping eyelids that can make you look tired and aged while even obstructing your peripheral vision (side vision). But it doesn’t have to be caused by aging. Even younger people can be affected due to genetics. Either way, drooping eyelids is a common issue that affects men and women across the world, leading to hundreds of thousands of blepharoplasty procedures performed each year.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a type of eyelid surgery in which excess skin and fat is removed from the eyelids for the purpose of rejuvenating your appearance or improving your field of vision. Blepharoplasty can involve both the upper and lower lids, though the upper lids are the most common. Blepharoplasty can be performed solely for cosmetic reasons to provide a more youthful appearance by diminishing puffiness and bags, or the surgery can be done to improve one’s vision by removing obstructing tissues.
Am I a candidate for blepharoplasty in Atlanta?
If you wish to reduce sagging upper or lower lids and create a younger, more “alert” look, or you want to improve your peripheral vision by removing obstructing skin, then blepharoplasty may be the right treatment for you. Blepharoplasty can offer a solution for people experiencing:
- Droopy or sagging upper eyelids
- Excess skin (upper lids) that partially blocks peripheral vision
- Excess skin of the lower lids
- Undereye bags
Be sure to keep in mind that blepharoplasty will not improve dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, or sagging eyebrows. These conditions can effectively be addressed through various alternative procedures, however. For instance, Dr. Elizabeth may recommend a browlift, Signature Facelift™, or skin resurfacing treatment to address these concerns.
Before & After: Upper Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)
Preguntas Frecuentes
How does the upper eyelid lift work?
In upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Elizabeth makes an incision in the creases of the upper lids to minimize visibility as much as possible along these natural folds. Through these incisions, she will then remove excess fat, skin, or muscle that’s contributing to the issue. Once that process is complete, the incisions are then sutured.
How much recovery time is needed after blepharoplasty?
The skin of the eyelids heals remarkably quickly, and scars are usually well hidden in your natural folds. Scars from the incisions, though mostly hidden, may take a few weeks to several months to fade, however. The most common side effects are bruising and swelling, but these typically resolve in about 10-14 days. Other possible temporary side effects may include:
- Puffy eyelids
- Numbness
- Watering eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Double vision
- Discomfort at and around treatment site
Ice packs can be used to provide relief from swelling or discomfort in the days after surgery. We recommend that you don’t do anything strenuous for at least a week after your procedure. We’ll go over all the details of your at-home care plan at your consultation and make sure you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
What results can I expect after blepharoplasty?
Once any swelling and bruising has subsided, you’ll likely notice a more refreshed appearance in your upper eyelids. Your eyes will most often appear wider and more alert. Many blepharoplasty patients say they feel more self-confident and look younger and more rested. For some people, the results may be permanent. For others, droopy eyelids can recur, depending on their lifestyle and individual skin structure. Dr. Elizabeth and her knowledgeable staff will discuss all realistic expectations with you at your private consultation.
