Blepharoplasty: Common Myths and Facts

Even though there are several non-invasive procedures today that help addresses different signs of aging, there are many issues that still require surgical correction for the best results. Cosmetic eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one such surgical procedure that does not have an effective non-surgical alternative. There are two kinds of blepharoplasty procedures– one for the upper and lower eyelid, respectively. If you’re considering a procedure to rejuvenate your eyes with blepharoplasty, here are some interesting myths and facts about eyelid surgery that you may not know.

About Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid scars are some of the most concealed scars in plastic surgery: Although it’s true that certain surgeries can produce visible scarring, eyelid surgery can easily conceal any incisions within the natural folds of the eyes. For upper eyelid surgery, the scar is concealed within the crease. For lower eyelid surgery, incisions can be made inside the lower eyelid or hidden below the lash line. Using these techniques, most patients find little to no visible scarring after surgery.

You can correct dark circles: Some of the most common cosmetic issues around the eyes are dark circles and eye bags. There can be many reasons that these problems can form; it could be temporary due to lack of sleep, while long term dark circles are caused typically by thinning skin or loss of volume due to aging. These concerns can respond to non-surgical treatments like laser techniques, dermal fillers, and skincare. Fat grafting is an evolving more permanent option to improve the tear trough and lower eyelid. You should be sure to discuss your goals with Dr. Azouz during a consultation.

Blepharoplasty surgery (eyelid surgery) can still be performed in those with dry eyes: It’s important to choose an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial cosmetic surgery since removing too much skin can cause chronic dry eyes after recovery. You can expect some dryness during your recovery, however, because of irritation. This can be mitigated with eyedrops.

Facts About Eyelid Surgery

It has cosmetic and medical benefits: Eyelid surgery can help eliminate sagging skin and remove excessive skin and fat from the area while also tightening the skin. In addition to these cosmetic enhancements, it can also improve your peripheral vision when it removes overhanging skin. Removing excess eyelid skin can also allow more light into the eye, which can improve vision. This is why it’s medically recommended for people whose vision is affected by droopy eyelids.

It’s the second most popular facial cosmetic procedure: After rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery is the next most popular surgery in the U.S. This is believed to be increasing at almost 10 percent each year.

Lower and upper eyelid surgery can be performed together: Even though not everyone will require correction on both the lower and upper eyelids, they can be performed together within the same surgical procedure. This reduces the surgical session’s time as well as your recovery period.

Eyelid surgery isn’t just for women: While it’s true that a large percentage of women opt for eyelid surgery, men seeking facial rejuvenation also opt for the procedure in thousands each year.

Your results will continue to improve: You will be able to see your results immediately after surgery, but in most cases, your final results will continue to refine over the course of a year to eighteen months. This happens because it takes time for the surrounding tissue, skin, and fat to settle in place. Even though it may take around 12-18 months to see your final results, your facial improvement will be long-lasting.

Eyelid surgery can be performed under local anesthesia: Depending on the amount of correction required, your eyelid surgery can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. It is usually performed under local anesthesia together with sedation. You’ll be able to return home immediately after surgery. Dr. Azouz recommends elevation and icing to reduce swelling.

Schedule a Consultation

Eyelid surgery can be a quick and effective way to rejuvenate the face and brighten your look. To begin discussing your options, contact our office by calling or filling out our online form and schedule a consultation with Dr. Azouz.