The eyes are the first place on your face to show age. One may think that a lack of sleep and the stresses of life are the reasons for tired looking eyes, but it really comes from changes in the underlying structure and genetic tendencies. A cosmetic blepharoplasty can improve the look of tired, puffy eyes quickly and without much downtime. This procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
The most common complaint from patients considering a blepharoplsaty is that they look tired. This concern is mostly due to bags under the eyes, “creping” or wrinkling of the skin under the eye, or excess skin on the upper eyelid. Under-eye puffiness is caused by protruding fat from around the eye. The fat pads under the eyes start to protrude with age form bags, which create under eye puffiness. When performing a lower eyelid blepharoplasty, I always perform a fat transposition where fat is removed and repositioned to avoid a hollowed, sunken appearance. This method proves to be the most beneficial at restoring a natural balance and youthful appearance.
If a patient’s concern is excess skin that disturbs the natural youthfulness of the upper eyelid, an upper blepharoplasty, or “eyelid lift” is required. This procedure also removes excess fat that appears as puffiness in the upper eyelid. Eyelid lifts can even be performed in our office, under local anesthesia if the patient is comfortable with being awake. During this surgery, the incision line is hidden within the natural fold of the upper eyelid and extends slightly beyond the outside corner into the smile lines to blend in with these naturally occurring creases. Because the incision follows the natural contour of the upper eyelid, it is inconspicuous when performed by an experienced, well trained blepharoplasty surgeon.
After a blepharoplasty surgery, patients may feel a “tight” sensation around the eyes and mild discomfort that is controlled with pain medication. Swelling and bruising may occur but will typically disappear within seven to ten days. Stitches are usually removed within 4-5 days of surgery. After surgery, blurry vision, temporarily sensitive to light, and excess tearing or dryness are uncommon but considered normal. Patients can typically return to their normal activities within seven days of their surgery.
If a patient is not willing to undergo surgery to improve their eyes, hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm, Restylane, or Belotero are an option. By injecting filler into the tear troughs and under the eyes, volume can be restored within the junction of the eyelid and cheek giving a more rested appearance. However, fillers are a short-term solution for a long-term problem. Each patient’s eye issues, goals, and expectations are different, so always consult a double board certified facial plastic surgeon when seeking advice for facial cosmetic procedures.
