The eyes play a major role in how old we look. Drooping eyelids, puffy bags, and sagging skin in the eye region all make us look tired, which is associated with being older. Some may develop these conditions as a result of the natural aging process. For others, it is simply a hereditary trait. While eyelid issues are unpleasant, there are ways to treat them.
Eyelid surgery, otherwise known as blepharoplasty, is designed to revitalize the region around the eyes by extracting excess skin and fat which results in the sagging of the eyelids. People who seek out this surgery are usually unhappy about their older appearance. As the skin around this region is quite delicate, the signs of aging that manifest there can be quite noticeable.
Blepharoplasty is effective at improving facial appearance by addressing puffiness and excess skin around the eyelids. As each patient has unique eyelid issues, there are various forms of eyelid surgery that can address different conditions. Here are some options that can help patients reach their cosmetic goals.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
As the name implies, cosmetic blepharoplasty is a procedure that is elected in order to address solely cosmetic issues, not functional ones. It primarily aims to reduce aesthetically displeasing under-eye bags and sagging eyelids. For decades, patients have depended on cosmetic blepharoplasty as a means of winding back the clock on the aging process, giving them a more youthful, rejuvenated look.
As the aging process progresses, pockets of fat begin to accumulate, muscles become weaker, and skin laxity in the eyelids increases. Collectively, these factors contribute to a worn-out look that leaves patients feeling less than ideal.
Functional Eyelid Surgery
Functional blepharoplasty is appropriately named for its focus on functionality. It is designed to address impaired vision in patients who are affected by sagging skin that is obstructing their line of sight. It is also a useful treatment for patients who experience difficulty with contact lenses or glasses due to bagginess in the upper or lower eyelids.
Other potential functional issues include strained forehead muscles, due to difficulty with keeping eyelids open, and irritation in the eyelids from excess skin numbing during eyelid movement.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty is a procedure that involves extracting excess fat, muscle, and skin which leaves the eyes looking saggy, heavy, and shadowed. The surgery involves making an incision in the upper eyelid fold, allowing for the unwanted tissue to be removed. Also referred to as an upper eyelid lift, upper blepharoplasty helps patients achieve a more rested, rejuvenated aesthetic.
What is the takeaway?
Regardless of what eyelid issues a patient is dealing with, there is a form of blepharoplasty out there for them. Patients who are dealing with purely cosmetic concerns in the lower eyelid region can benefit from cosmetic eyelid surgery. Those struggling with functionality will see the most benefit from functional eyelid surgery. Issues in the upper eyelids can be best addressed with an upper eyelid lift.
As with any surgical procedure, it is recommended that patients seek out a skilled, experienced practitioner to carry out their treatment.