The eyes are unique among the features, as they communicate thoughts and emotions, telegraphing each patient’s unique personality and energetic presence. When factors such as genetics, aging, or sun exposure alter the appearance of the eyelids, it can create a tired, sad, or angry facial expression, even when the patient is in the best of spirits.
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to combat sagging skin, puffiness, and bags beneath the eyes, restoring a refreshed and revitalized appearance. In this blog, Dr. Jeffrey Ridha, an accomplished, double-board-certified aesthetic artist in Saratoga Springs, explores how blepharoplasty can create the elegant, nuanced changes you desire, taking your confidence to new heights.
Exploring Blepharoplasty – Understanding Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery
When it comes to eyelid surgery, the procedure is divided into two parts: upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty. While some patients may need both, it is most common to undergo one or the other depending on individual needs.
Upper eyelid surgery focuses on removing drooping excess skin in the upper lids, firming the underlying muscles, and eradicating pockets of fat. This results in a more open, energized facial appearance and may even improve one’s field of vision if low-hanging upper lids are obstructing eyesight.
Lower eyelid surgery is performed to reduce the appearance of puffiness and under-eye bags by removing excess tissue and fat and tightening the underlying muscles. Lower blepharoplasty can help patients enjoy a more revitalized, youthful countenance while also resolving the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and creases.
Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery can refresh the appearance of the upper face, beautifully restoring a rested, attractive facial expression. Advantages of the procedure include the following:
- An enhanced aesthetic appearance
- Removal of loose, drooping skin
- Corrects the appearance of fat buildup
- Smooths away lines, creases, and wrinkles
- Combats puffiness and under-eye bags
- Improves field of vision
- Boosts confidence and self-esteem
- Lasting, dramatic-looking results
What to Expect From the Blepharoplasty Treatment Process
Consultation
The first step with eyelid surgery is to meet with your plastic surgeon for a thorough consultation. This first visit is dedicated to discussing your goals, answering your questions, and completing a detailed medical and physical review. Your doctor will make sure you have realistic expectations by going over the risks, recovery time, costs, and anticipated results for blepharoplasty.
Surgery
The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your circumstances. Surgery can take 1-3 hours and may be paired with other cosmetic treatments, such as dermal fillers or BOTOX.
With upper blepharoplasty, incisions are created within the fine creases of the upper lids, where scarring is virtually imperceptible after healing. With lower eyelid surgery, incisions are placed on the inside of the lower lids or along the lower lash line. For this reason, lower blepharoplasty is typically considered a “scarless” procedure.
Recovery
After surgery, you can expect mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness. These symptoms can be well managed with oral pain medications provided by your doctor. You can also use a cold compress to relieve any soreness. Most patients find they can return to work within several weeks. However, it is critical that you avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks and follow your doctor’s instructions to the letter to minimize the risk of complications.
Results
While it can take several months for all residual swelling to die down, with every passing week of the healing process, you will see a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance emerging. It is essential to avoid smoking for several months after surgery and to steer clear of harmful UV rays, wearing sunglasses and a sun hat whenever outdoors.
Potential Risks and Complications With Eyelid Surgery
All cosmetic surgeries carry certain inherent risks. However, by choosing a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of complications. Your surgeon will conduct a thorough medical evaluation prior to recommending eyelid surgery to make sure that no contraindications are present. Possible risks connected with eyelid surgery include the following:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Poor responses to anesthesia
- Poor scarring
- Dry eyes
- Problems opening or closing the lids
- Temporary blurry vision
Do I Qualify for Blepharoplasty?
To qualify for eyelid surgery, patients need to be in good overall health and free from any uncontrolled medical problems or eye conditions. They should be non-smokers who have positive yet realistic expectations for their results, understanding that eyelid surgery can refresh the appearance, but cannot make patients look like they are in their 20s again.
Blepharoplasty is recommended for those who are frustrated by the appearance of sagging skin, hooded upper lids, vision impairment, puffiness, under-eye bags, and wrinkles.
The best way to determine your candidacy for eyelid surgery is to meet with a qualified plastic surgeon who will discuss your concerns in depth and determine if blepharoplasty will safely and effectively meet your goals.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Surgeon
To obtain the best results with eyelid surgery, it is critical that you select a qualified, board-certified aesthetic expert who has performed numerous blepharoplasty procedures and has a strong understanding of the upper facial structure and what it takes to produce nuanced, elegant results.
When selecting a provider, you should review their credentials, training background, specialized techniques, awards, patient testimonials, and before-and-after photographs. Additionally, you should meet with your potential provider in person. This will allow you to determine if working together feels like a good fit and whether your surgeon fully understands your specific goals for improvement.
By selecting a plastic surgeon with whom you feel safe and confident, you can optimize your treatment experience and anticipate a seamless and rewarding cosmetic journey.
What Is the Takeaway?
Blepharoplasty has a high rate of patient satisfaction, thanks to its ability to dramatically transform the upper face and restore an energized, alert facial expression. If you are struggling with sagging skin, lines, wrinkles, loss of peripheral vision, puffiness, or under-eye bags, you may be an excellent candidate for the procedure. Whether you choose to undergo upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both, you should always select a plastic surgeon who has extensive expertise in performing facial procedures and with whom you feel comfortable and secure.
Discover the Benefits of Eyelid Surgery in Saratoga Springs! Contact Dr. Jeffrey Ridha Today to Book Your Initial Consultation.
Dr. Jeffrey Ridha, a trusted, double-board-certified plastic surgeon, insists on excellence, integrity, and your utmost safety at every juncture of the treatment process. He is known for his exemplary approach to care and for his stunning aesthetic results, finely tailored to individual goals. If you think you might be a candidate for eyelid surgery and have questions about the procedure, reach out to our team in Saratoga Springs today to book a private and informative consultation.