What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a kind of surgery performed on the eyelids. It’s done to remove excess skin and swelling from the upper eyelids and reduce bagginess from the lower eyelids. It’s also called an eye lift.
Why Is Blepharoplasty Done?
For middle age adults this surgery is usually done for cosmetic reasons. In older adults it is an effective way to improve sight when the sagging upper eyelids get in the way of their vision when the upper eyelids are involved. In older adults when the lower eyelids are involved, blepharoplasty is a way to restore the original function and position of the lower eyelids. An eye lift won’t get rid of dark circles under the eyes, crow’s feet, or other facial wrinkles. It’s often done along with other procedures such as laser resurfacing, filler injections, or forehead lifts.
The eyelid aging process
As skin ages, it gradually loses its elasticity. A lack of elasticity plus the constant pull from gravity causes excess skin to collect on the upper and lower eyelids. Excess skin on the lower eyelid causes wrinkles and bulges. On the upper eyelids, the extra skin can hang over the eyelashes and get in the way of seeing. As the skin and muscle lose their elasticity the fat that cushions and protects the eyeball from the surrounding bones can cause bulges in the upper and lower eyelids. The thin membrane that holds the fat in place weakens with age, letting the fat come forward into the lids creating a bulge.
Who Is a Good Candidate For Blepharoplasty?
The ideal candidates for an eye lift are people who are 35 years or older, in good health and who have a realistic idea of what they want. If baggy eyelids or droopy eyelids run in your family, you may decide to have the surgery done sooner. While eyelid surgery can improve your appearance and help build your confidence, it may not result in your ideal look or alter your facial structure. Think about your goals before you decide to have surgery, and discuss them with your surgeon.