How to Know if Eyelid Surgery Is Right for You

Our eyes say a lot about us, including how old we are. And because the skin around our eyes is relatively thin, it’s often the first area where we start to see signs of aging. Eyelid surgery (or blepharoplasty) can help reduce the signs of aging in both the upper and lower lids so you look and feel more youthful and energetic. If you’re dealing with droopy, wrinkly lids or under-eye sagging, a blepharoplasty could be just what you need to help your eyes (and your whole face) look its best. Here’s how to tell if you’re a good candidate for eyelid surgery.

Is eyelid surgery right for you?

Eyelid surgery can be a very good option for people who have excess skin or fatty tissue in their upper or lower lids. While the surgery offers plenty of cosmetic benefits, upper lid surgery can also eliminate excess skin that droops or sags into your field of vision, helping you see more clearly. Lower lid surgery can “tighten up” sagging lower lids that can make your eyes dry or irritated.

Generally, you’re a good candidate for eyelid surgery if:

• you have excess skin that interferes with vision or causes drooping that makes you look tired and worn out
• you have excess fatty deposits that make your upper lids puffy or “hooded”
• you have fat or excess tissue in your lower lids or “bagging” under your eyes
• your lower lids droop excessively
• you’re a non-smoker or quit during your recovery
• you’re in good overall health
• have realistic expectations about what the surgery can do

 Be sure to discuss prior surgeries and existing medical conditions with Dr. Morris during your consultation so she can make sure you get the best and most appropriate treatment.

Upper lids, lower lids or both?

Once it's determined you're a good candidate for blepharoplasty, Dr. Morris will discuss the techniques used for your particular procedure. Upper lid surgery uses tiny incisions placed in the creases of your eyelids so the scars can be hidden. In lower lid surgery, the incision may be located along your lower lash line or inside your lid using what’s called a transconjunctival approach. Dr. Morris will determine the best approach for your surgery during your consultation visit. Many patients opt to have both their upper lids and lower lids treated at the same time.

Eyelid surgery uses monitored IV anesthesia, and it’s performed on an outpatient basis which means you can go home the same day you have surgery. Once your procedure is over, ointment will be applied to help your eyelids heal and to prevent infection. You’ll have some swelling and discomfort, but applying cold compresses and using over-the-counter pain medicine will help. Since your vision may be blurry at first, you’ll probably also want someone around at least for a day or two to help with chores. Healing takes about one week, and it can take a few weeks for your swelling to go down completely.

Find out more about blepharoplasty

Considering blepharoplasty “only” focuses on your eyelids, it’s amazing what a big difference it can make in both your appearance and your comfort. At Radiance MediSpa, Dr. Carrie Morris uses state-of-the-art surgical techniques combined with aesthetic expertise to achieve optimal results for each patient she treats. To learn more about eyelid surgery and how it could help you look and feel your best, book an appointment online today.