Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure in which excess skin, muscle and fat in the upper or lower eyelids are removed. It is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries people choose to have. That being said, it is still an operation that requires specific research and preparation. Here are the top things to know before eyelid surgery.
It can make you look years younger.
The delicate skin surrounding your eyes is often the first area that show signs of aging. Skin loses elasticity and muscles weaken as we age. Because of this, the eyelids may begin sagging and drooping. Bags may also form in the lower lids. However, eyelid surgery can significantly reverse these signs of aging by giving you a rested and rejuvenated appearance.
You will still look like yourself.
Eyelid surgery will not change the basic structure of how your eyes look, for it is not a reconstructive operation. It is important to discuss with your surgeon about your expectations so they can help you reach your cosmetic goals. The results of eyelid surgery are generally much more subtle, which results in more of a refreshed look than a dramatic change.
Avoid makeup, contact lenses, and brow grooming.
Any contact with your eye area will hinder the recovery process and increase swelling. We recommend avoiding makeup, contact lenses, and brow grooming for at least the first few weeks. This will prevent excess swelling, as well as risk of infection.
It is normal to be nervous.
Although common and generally a safe procedure, blepharoplasty is still a surgical procedure that warrants a healthy amount of nerves. Be sure to talk with your surgeon openly in the weeks and days leading up to the procedure to ease some fears. It will also help to do research and take the necessary steps pre-op.
Be aware of risks and post-op side effects.
With a skilled doctor taking care of you, eyelid surgery is generally very safe. That being said, there are risks as any surgical procedure would have. This can include skin sensation changes, difficulty closing your eyes, and dry eyes. Bruising, scarring, and infection can also occur. Swelling is quite common after the surgery, but applying a cold compress regularly in the following days will help. We also recommend having a pair of big sunglasses ready during post-op as your recover.
Allow time for recovery process.
Post-op to the best time to take a break physically, emotionally, mentally. Any type of stress will slow down your recovery. Take off from work, give yourself time to recover privately, and do your best to relax.
It takes a year for full results to show.
While you may have tunnel-vision in focusing on nothing but results after the operation, you must try to be patient. Swelling especially won’t make the true results visible for at least six months to a full year. Patience is key here; let your recovery run its course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper or lower eyelids. It aims to reduce sagging, drooping, and bags around the eyes to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Eyelid surgery does not alter the basic structure of your eyes since it is not a reconstructive procedure. The results are typically subtle, providing a refreshed and rested look rather than a dramatic change. Discussing your expectations with your surgeon can help ensure your cosmetic goals are met.
To promote proper healing and reduce swelling, you should avoid makeup, contact lenses, and brow grooming for at least the first few weeks after surgery. These activities can irritate the eye area and increase the risk of infection or complications during recovery.
While generally safe with a skilled surgeon, blepharoplasty carries risks such as changes in skin sensation, difficulty closing the eyes, dry eyes, bruising, scarring, and infection. Swelling is common but can be managed with cold compresses. Wearing sunglasses during recovery is also recommended to protect your eyes.
Recovery from blepharoplasty requires time and patience. Swelling and healing can take several months, with full results typically visible between six months to a year after the procedure. Taking time off work and minimizing stress can help speed up the recovery process.
Yes, feeling nervous before blepharoplasty is normal since it is a surgical procedure. Open communication with your surgeon and thorough research can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you mentally and emotionally for the operation.
Eyelid surgery can significantly reduce visible signs of aging around the eyes by removing sagging skin and bags, which often appear first due to loss of skin elasticity and muscle weakening. This results in a more youthful, rested, and rejuvenated appearance.
