Eye contact is a crucial component in human interaction, which means your eyes are often the first thing people see when they look at you. If your eyelids have grown saggy and baggy over time, it can not only impact your appearance, but also your confidence during social interactions. The good news is that eye lifts are a safe and effective means of improving your outlook, so to speak. What can you expect with an eye lift procedure?
The Eye Lift Procedure
A blepharoplasty, or eye lift surgery, involves improving the look of your upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. You may be looking to treat sagging, droopy upper eyelids or reduce baggy areas under the eyes, which can make you appear old and tired. In some cases, extreme sagging can even impair your vision.
Blepharoplasty is a safe, outpatient procedure typically performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with the use of sedation for patient comfort. It may also be performed under general anesthesia, depending on the circumstances.
The procedure begins with incisions along the folds of the upper lids, followed by removal of excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat, before the incision is closed. For the lower lids, an incision is made just below the lash line or inside the lower lid of the eye so that skin, muscle, and fat can be removed or redistributed to create a smooth, tight appearance. The incision is then closed.
Incisions are strategically placed to hide scarring. Once recovery is complete, the work will be practically invisible. This procedure is extremely safe, and risks like swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, and scarring are similar to any surgical procedure.
Recovery
It’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and tenderness following your eye lift, as well as some discomfort, which may be treated with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or prescription pain relievers. Many patients experience temporary symptoms like dry or watery eyes, as well as light sensitivity, that diminish throughout the course of recovery.
Applying ice packs is recommended during the first couple of days after surgery, as is sleeping with your head elevated. You’ll need to protect your eyes from the sun with dark glasses. Stitches can be removed during a follow-up appointment a few days after surgery. Bruising and swelling typically subside within a couple of weeks, and scarring should fade over the next several months.
Benefits of Eye Lift Surgery
The major benefits of eye lift surgery include a more youthful and alert appearance, as well as improved self-confidence. Although this procedure only addresses a small area, it can have an incredible impact, and you’re sure to get plenty of compliments, even if people don’t immediately realize you’ve had an eye lift. Blepharoplasty may also serve to improve vision if sagging skin was impairing your sight.
The Best Time to Schedule an Eye Lift
While you can certainly schedule an eye lift procedure whenever you’re ready to improve your appearance, winter is an ideal time to undergo many cosmetic procedures. Not only will you have some time off during the winter holidays, which will provide you with a chance to recuperate, but you won’t have to worry as much about the damaging effects of the sun. So, if you want to schedule an eye lift, face lift, neck lift, or even liposuction, breast augmentation, or other procedures, winter is the perfect time.
Dr. Beverly Fischer, MD and the qualified team at the Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery are happy to help you decide on the best treatments to improve your appearance and boost your confidence at any time of year. Contact us today, online or at 410-308-4700, to schedule a consultation and learn more.
