Determining if an eyelid surgery is the right procedure

As one matures, their eyelid contours will inevitably change as time pushes on. These variations may include extra slack skin, fatty deposits or a mixture of both.

An aesthetic plastic surgery on the eyelids, which is also called a blepharoplasty, can produce impressive results; and, it’s one of the most gratifying cosmetic procedures which many patients encounter.

Oftentimes, those who do not know someone has had an eyelid surgery have a difficult time pinpointing why the patient looks so much better.  Many times, people contribute the change to a well-rested appearance.

Removing redundant skin and fatty deposits will transform eyes to a more youthful look.

Both men and women seek eyelid surgery for either their upper lids, lower lids, or both.

However, one of the main questions people often ask their potential plastic surgeon is whether or not they need a brow lift to correct the upper eyelid issue or a blepharoplasty.  And that’s a great question.   

During a consultation, a board certified plastic surgeon will determine if the excess skin on the upper lid is from a descent of the brow or indeed directly from the upper eyelids.

A gentle forehead and brow manipulation will assess the brow at its youthful position.

As a rule of thumb, for females this brow position is around one centimeter over the bony margin of the orbit, whereas for men, the ideal position for men is at the bony margin of the orbit.

If the brow manipulation resolves the extra skin on the upper eyelid, then a brow lift is needed.  If not, then an eyelid surgery is the recommendation.

New skills and technques for a blepharoplasty have also included the use of a strategic fat transer for the lateral and upper lid portions.  While not suitable for all patients, some do benefit from this fat transfer.

During the youthful years, generally, the inner part of the eyebrow naturally curves upward.  As one matures, this fatty area may reabsorb causing saggy skin.  So, for some patients, this fat transfer offers a fuller and younger appearance.

Following upper lid surgery, sutures are generally removed in about a week.  Typically, postoperative bruising lasts two to three weeks.  During this timeframe, wearing dark sunglasses is very helpful; and, when the plastic surgeon approves, concealer makeup can be used for camouflage techniques.

On the other hand, swelling for the upper lids rebounds quicker than the lower lids.  For the upper lids, swelling will recede in about two weeks.

The results of an upper eyelid surgery are a younger, smoother, and toner appearance.