Drooping skin on upper eyelids or puffy lower lids can make you look older and tired. Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, can reverse the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin for a more youthful and refreshed look.
What kinds of eyelid surgery are there?
Eyelid surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. The goal is to improve the appearance of the eyes or correct vision obstructions due to sagging skin around the eyelid.
There are two main types of eyelid surgery.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Upper eyelid surgery may be cosmetic or functional. Aesthetically, it can correct sagging, wrinkles, and puffiness that make a person look tired or even sad. Hanging skin on the upper eyelids can also obstruct vision, making daily tasks like driving or reading difficult.
The surgery involves small incisions that are made in the natural crease. This conceals evidence of surgery when the eyes are open. Excess skin is carefully removed through the incisions by the surgeon, who may also take out a small amount of underlying muscle and/or protruding fat pads. Remaining tissue is sculpted and tightened to create a refreshed and more defined eyelid contour. The incisions are closed with fine sutures that are removed in five to ten days.
The benefits of upper eyelid surgery include:
- A youthful, rested appearance
- Improved vision
- Enhanced facial harmony
- Increased self-confidence
The ultimate goal of upper eyelid surgery is a natural result, avoiding an overly surprised expression.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower eyelid surgery addresses aesthetic concerns in the lower eyelids, such as fine lines, eye bags, wrinkles, hollowing, and sagging skin. Lower blepharoplasty is usually performed for cosmetic reasons, although extreme laxity in the lower eyelid region can contribute to eye irritation.
For lower eyelid surgery, incisions are made just below the lower eyelash line or inside the lower eyelid, through the conjunctiva. There is no visible scarring with this technique. Excess skin is removed, and fat pads are removed or redistributed to create a smoother contour.
The benefits of lower eyelid surgery include:
- A more youthful appearance
- Reduction/elimination of lower eye bags
- Tighter, smoother, lower eye skin
- Improved facial contour
The technique used for lower eyelid surgery, below or through the inner eyelid, depends on the individual patient’s concerns.
What is the cost of eyelid surgery?
The cost of eyelid surgery depends on the type of surgery a patient wishes to have. While an upper blepharoplasty might cost between $4,000 and $6,000, a lower eyelid surgery will cost between $7,000 and $9,500. To address both eyelids, the average cost would be from $9,000 to $11,000.
The price breakdown includes :
- Consultation
- Anesthesia
- Surgeon’s fees
- Operating room fee
- Medications
- Follow-up visits
Eyelid surgery is an investment of both time and financial resources, so a board-certified surgeon who offers realistic prices and natural results should be consulted.
What is recovery from eyelid surgery like?
During recovery from eyelid surgery, most patients will experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Blurred vision, light sensitivity, or temporary irritation/dryness may also occur. It is essential to keep the head elevated and administer cold compresses to manage symptoms. Strenuous activities, eye strain, and heavy lifting should be avoided for three to six weeks.
360 Surgery Center Specializes in Eyelid Surgery in Tampa
360 Surgery Center in Tampa, Florida, specializes in eyelid surgery to treat the common signs of aging, such as droopy upper eyelids and puffy under-eye bags. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help you meet your aesthetic goals.
Image Credit: Rabizo Anatolii/ Shutterstock
