Aging can cause the muscles in the eyelids to weaken. When this happens, the skin on the eyes can stretch or look full, causing a person to look older and, sometimes, even negatively affecting their vision. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is often chosen by those wishing to achieve an improved look. Here’s an explanation of what blepharoplasty is and what you need to know about it.
Why Do People Choose Blepharoplasty and What Are Its Benefits?
Eyelid surgery may be chosen for many reasons. A person may wish to eliminate bags under their eyes, or correct upper eyelids that have become baggy or which have started to droop. Excess skin on lower and upper eyelids can also be removed with this surgery.
Removing excess skin from the upper eyelids and from under the eyes can restore a person’s youthful look. It can also restore any peripheral vision, which may have been negatively impacted by drooping skin on the upper eyelids.
Types of Blepharoplasty
There are essentially three types of blepharoplasty: upper, lower, and double.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty involves the removal of excess fat and skin from the upper eyelid area via an incision to achieve a less heavy and aged appearance or to correct impaired vision. In some cases, a condition called ptosis can cause eyelids to function improperly. Upper blepharoplasty is often chosen to restore this function.
Lower Blepharoplasty
When surgery is done on the lower part of the eye via an incision made on the inside of the eyelid or below the lash line, fat can be efficiently redistributed or removed. This particular type of eye surgery is called lower blepharoplasty.
Asian Eyelid Surgery
Some people are born with a visible crease between their eyelid and upper eyelid, which is called a double eyelid. Others are born without this crease but wish to have one created with double eyelid blepharoplasty. This procedure is also referred to as Asian eyelid surgery because it the most common form of plastic surgery in the region of East Asia.
How to Know if You’re a Good Candidate for Surgery
Generally speaking, if you have realistic expectations for results and are healthy, you can be a good blepharoplasty candidate. The majority of people who get this surgery are from their mid 40s and older. However, you may also wish to opt for surgery at a younger age if droopy or baggy eyelids are a family trait.
If you want to improve the appearance of your eyelids, blepharoplasty may be the right choice for you. An experienced surgeon will be able to help you achieve the best results. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Peter H. Grossman is one of the area’s best board-certified plastic surgeons. Visit Grossman Plastic Surgery online or call to book your consultation: (818) 981-2050.