The eyes are one of the first facial features to show signs of aging. This is attributed to various factors, including genetics, sun exposure, or the natural aging process. As the years go by, we begin to notice changes in our gaze that contribute to an appearance of tiredness.
On both the upper and lower eyelids, loose skin becomes apparent, while fat deposits start bulging forward. Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty aims to address these signs by removing excess skin and fat, resulting in clearer and more youthful-looking eyes. This cosmetic surgery resolves the aesthetic concern, restoring a youthful and cheerful look to the gaze by achieving perfectly framed eyelids on the face. The procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
The intervention typically lasts between one and 3 hours, or longer when combined with other procedures. If all four eyelids are to be addressed, it usually begins with the upper ones. Most of the time, incisions are placed along the natural lines of the upper eyelids and just below the eyelashes on the lower ones; in some cases, they may extend towards the crow’s feet. Through these incisions, the skin is separated from the underlying fat and muscle, removing excess fat, and sometimes excess skin and muscle. The incisions are closed with very fine sutures.
In other cases, particularly in younger patients with only excess fat, a transconjunctival blepharoplasty of the lower eyelids can be performed, with the incision placed inside the lower eyelid, leaving no visible scar.
Patients are often highly satisfied with the results of eyelid surgery as it requires minimal downtime. After the procedure, their eyes will appear refreshed and less swollen. By removing excess skin and fat, the upper eyelid fold becomes more visible, creating a more open and youthful gaze.