Eyelid Surgery
(Blepharoplasty):

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The Myths: There are several misconceptions about eyelid surgery. Two of the most prevalent include:

The need for it is solely due to aging and; therefore, reserved for older individuals. This is, of course, untrue. Based on heredity factors, many younger persons, including many teenagers, may have “bags” under the eyes and/or poorly defined upper eyelids. A heavy fold of skin and tissue obscures the normal eyelid crease and comes down to the lash line so it obscures the upper eyelid. This condition makes it virtually impossible to properly apply cosmetics. Correction of this problem significantly improves the eye and facial appearance so that the eyes look more “alive” and become a vibrant part of the facial expression.

The eyelid surgery must be repeated every few years. Wrong again! When properly done (not merely removing a little strip of skin but actually resculpturing the eyelid), the effects are permanent and will rarely have to be repeated.

The Facts about Blepharoplasty:
The Facts: Usually, the upper and lower eyelid surgeries are done simultaneously but these procedures can be done separately, depending on the needs of the patient. The unattractive eyelid presents two problems that involve fat pouches and/or excessive skin and tissues.

Lower eyelid: Extruded fat from the eyeball cavity is usually more pronounced under the eyes and causes “bags,” or the appearance of dark circles. This often gives a very tired look to the face. When this condition occurs at a young age, it is probably inherited; in older persons, these bags form as part of the aging process. Removal of these fatty deposits is successful and makes the person look less tired, more alert and youthful.

Excessive skin in the lower eyelid shows as wrinkles or crepeness in the skin. Although this can be somewhat alleviated by surgery, it will not disappear completely. The wrinkle lines beside the eye (“crow’s feet” or “smile lines”) will not be removed by this surgery. Some persons have “double bags;” the second bag is an area of fullness lower down over the cheekbones which is due to fluid retention by the body and cannot be corrected by any acceptable conventional surgical techniques.

Upper eyelid: Excessive skin is usually most severe in the upper lids, forming a heavy fold that drops over the normal lid crease, over the upper eyelid itself and obscuring it. Sometimes, this skin even interferes with vision, causing frowning or headaches. Surgery to correct this condition is very successful and can help both vision and appearance. Cosmetics can be used effectively to draw attention to the eye area and give it a more opened, youthful appearance.

In some patients, the curtain of skin from the upper eyelid may be partially due to the sagging of the eyebrow. Then, it may be necessary to advise elevation of those structures at the same time that the upper eyelid facial procedure is performed. (For additional information, see the section on Brow and Forehead Lift).

Another minor procedure also used to effectively enhance the brow result is laser skin resurfacing which can be done at the same time as eyelid surgery (see Laser Skin Surgery).

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty):

Eyelid Surgery
(Blepharoplasty):