Blepharoplasty is an eyelid surgery in which excessive amounts of skin, muscle or fat are removed from drooping upper or lower eyelids. It is a common treatment for ptosis, a medical condition resulting in low-hanging eyelids that obstruct vision. This surgery has gained popularity as a cosmetic option to improve crow’s feet and age-related facial sagging.
Over time, extra skin begins to gather around the eye region, causing a reduction in elasticity and an accumulation of fatty tissue. Eyes can appear older due to the natural process of aging, making one look fatigued, wrinkled or even puffy. Individual body chemistry and genetic factors may be the reason for advanced aging appearances in those who are younger.
The ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are in good physical health and knowledgeable regarding the procedure. Candidates tend to be 35 or older, though younger people may receive treatment dependent upon genetic factors. Individual bone structure and anatomy are also important candidacy factors. A common surgery among women, its popularity for men continues to grow.
During blepharoplasty, a cosmetic surgeon will make incisions on the upper eyelid creases. The surgeon will separate the skin from the fatty tissue and muscle to enable the removal of any excessive amounts of skin, muscle or fat. Surgery can last as long as three hours and is performed as an outpatient procedure. Either local (sedated but remaining conscious) or general (asleep during the procedure) anesthesia may be used. Patients are usually allowed to leave within a few hours after the surgery’s completion.
Everyday routines can commence after 10 days, though most physical activity should be avoided for approximately three weeks. Age is an inevitable process and even with diligent prevention, sagging eyelids and wrinkles will occur. Blepharoplasty can refresh the eyes and bring back a youthful appearance.
