Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery

One of the first areas of the face to exhibit signs of aging is the area around the eyes. Under-eye bags and sagging upper eyelids that come with age can be corrected through cosmetic eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. This relatively minor cosmetic surgery procedure can refresh the appearance of the face and leave it looking years younger. Use the information provided below to learn more about eyelid surgery cost, benefits, and potential risks.

What is Blepharoplasty?

Cosmetic eyelid surgery dramatically improves the appearance of tired, droopy eyes. This is accomplished by removing excess skin and pockets of fat from the upper and lower eyelids. Many patients combine blepharoplasty with alternative treatments such as brow lift to eliminate drooping eyebrows, and various cosmetic dermal fillers to treat crow’s feet.

Blepharoplasty Candidates

Blepharoplasty is best suited for patients in good physical health who have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. While most eyelid surgery candidates are older than 35, those who have inherited droopy eyelids sometimes undergo the procedure at an earlier age.

For many patients, eyelid plastic surgery can be a means of improving vision obstructed by drooping lids. Those who may not be well-suited for blepharoplasty include patients who suffer from insufficient tear production, high blood pressure, diabetes, circulatory disorders, cardiovascular disease, or thyroid disease.

Preparing for Eyelid Surgery

Before undergoing blepharoplasty, or any other surgical procedure for that matter, you may experience a certain level of nervousness. This is a perfectly normal way to feel leading up to a surgery. There are, however, ways to physically and emotionally prepare for eyelid surgery that will help make for as comfortable and successful a procedure as possible.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Cost and Financing

Like that of other elective cosmetic surgeries, cosmetic eyelid surgery cost varies from location to location; price is often related to the regional cost of living. Many blepharoplasty surgeons offer cosmetic surgery financing plans that can help patients cover the cost of eyelid surgery. Once you choose a surgeon, an experienced staff member can help you decide the best way to finance your eyelid surgery cost.

Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery

Cosmetic eyelid surgery can be performed using traditional techniques on either the upper or lower lid, or on both lids. The goal for upper eyelid surgery is usually to lift the lid by removing excess skin. During lower eyelid surgery, a combination of excess skin and fatty deposits are removed to eliminate the bag under the eye. The result of both upper and lower eyelid surgery is a smoother, younger-looking appearance.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Eyelid surgery recovery is relatively easy and yields the best results when instructions are followed closely. Ointment for the skin is often prescribed, and bandages are applied to protect the eyes. Among other precautions, the head should remain elevated as much as possible. Most blepharoplasty patients can return to work and normal activities within 10 days of their procedure.

Eyelid Surgery Risks and Benefits

Blepharoplasty, like any other surgical procedure, carries both risks and benefits. Cosmetic eyelid surgery places the patient at risk of general surgical complications like swelling, infection, and bleeding. Various eyelid surgery side effects can also occur after the surgery. However, the benefits that eyelid surgery affords, like an enhanced appearance and improvement in sight for those with extremely droopy eyelids, are long-lasting and can be life-changing.

Eyelid Surgery Results

The results of blepharoplasty surgery are typically long-lasting and very satisfying for the patient. When patients have realistic expectations going into surgery and closely follow their surgeon’s instructions for recovery, cosmetic eyelid surgery can be a very successful and fulfilling procedure.

Visit the DocShop gallery to view more eyelid surgery before and after photos.

Photo credit: James P. Wire, MD

DocShop - Connecting Patients with Doctors

If you think cosmetic eyelid surgery is right for you, let DocShop help you find a well-qualified blepharoplasty surgeon in your area.