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Open Your Eyes: Get the Facts on Eyelid Surgery

March 31, 2016 - Dr. Jules Feledy

Open Your Eyes: Get the Facts on Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is an increasingly popular surgery appealing to both men and women. Less drastic than a face lift but more noticeable than over-the-counter treatments, eyelid surgery can give you a refreshed, youthful look. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about eyelid surgery.

Q: Is eyelid surgery for me?

A: The ideal candidate for eyelid surgery is looking to appear younger and more “awake.” Candidates of eyelid surgery may posess one or some of the following attributes:

  • Excess skin that has drooped from the natural fold of the upper
  • Wrinkles on the lower eyelid, sometimes called “crepe paper” skin
  • Bloated appearance of the upper eyelid, causing a fatigued look
  • Dark under-eye circles or bags eyelid, possibly obstructing vision

Q: What is the recovery time associated with eyelid surgery?

A: While every patient is different, the average recovery time for eyelid surgery is about 7-10 days. Immediately following the procedure, you can expect to see bruising around the eye, and to experience moderate discomfort. You may be prescribed topical or oral prescriptions to ameliorate the pain and expedite recovery. Do not wear contacts for at least two weeks following the procedure, though you may begin to use eye makeup within one to two weeks. Contact your physician with any questions.

Q: What are the alternatives to eyelid surgery?

A: There are many alternatives to eyelid surgery that do not require going under the knife, though they are not as effective and sometimes not as permanent. Serums, creams, and gels can be found at your local drug store that can provide more subtle effects. Be forewarned that while these products may smooth the appearance of skin, no over the counter product will ultimately be able to replace the collagen structure lost in sagging or drooping skin.

Ready to look younger but not yet ready to go under the knife? Learn more about Botox, one of the fastest way to remove wrinkles without surgery. Schedule a consultation today.

Blepharoplasty is surgical modification of the eyelid. It’s a procedure many seek out to alleviate the effects of aging that show up in the form of wrinkles, lost elasticity, and decreased volume around the eye. There are many kinds of eyelid procedures available, and what makes them so accessible and attractive are their effectiveness as well as their relatively easy recovery process.

Often dubbed “The Lunchtime Lift,” some eye lift procedures can be completed within the space of a generous lunch break: blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia (though sedation is available if preferred). Although discomfort and bruising may occur from this procedure, these will usually disappear within a few weeks, and the patient is able to return to a normal life almost immediately.

In addition to blepharoplasty, many patients opt for other procedures to enhance the age-reversing effects. The injected use of hyaluronic acid (commercially sold as the fillers Restylane or Juvederm) can restore volume and contribute to a youthful appearance. Treatments like chemical peels or laser resurfacing will also help create a refreshed look in conjunction with blepharoplasty. A specific kind of blepharoplasty, that of the lower eyelid, removes loose skin and puffiness. During this procedure, patients may opt to have fat transferred to create smooth contours and minimize volume irregularities occurring under the eyelid.

So, is blepharoplasty for you? It’s an option used by hundreds of thousands of people a year, and has recently become the most sought-after procedure, surpassing rhinoplasty, facial impants, facelifts, and forehead lifts. Each eye is different, and it’s important to do thorough research before making the decision. Only you can determine the best option for yourself.

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The surgeons at Belmont Plastic Surgery are here to help you take the next step on your aesthetic journey. Whether you want to restore what has been lost or improve upon what you already have, our surgeons will help you make the best possible choices for your care and deliver excellent results. Every day is an opportunity to live a more beautiful life. Seize your opportunity today with a consultation at Belmont Plastic Surgery.

5530 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 818, Chevy Chase MD 20815

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