Eyelid Surgery

The eyes are central to one’s appearance. As we use the eye to see the world, so the world sees us through our eyes. So what happens when the eyelids surrounding the eyes begin to show signs of aging? As fat and excess skin begin to accumulate, a different appearance emerges. Now the world sees us looking old, tired, angry, or possibly all three. This is a condition primarily caused by aging because, as we grow older, the eyelid skin stretches, muscles weaken, and yet more fat accumulates around the eyes. We have come to know this as “bags” under our eyes, or droopy eyelids. Having these conditions can make us look even much older. They can also interfere with our vision, obstructing our view of the world. However, there is a surgical procedure that offers a solution.

Eyelid surgery, medically referred to as blepharoplasty, is designed to remove fat, excess skin and muscle from the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper or lower eyelid, or both. This procedure is designed for those wanting to look younger, more refreshed and more alert. Even the slightest changes to the eyelids can help them look younger and vibrant.

Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are those who have droopy upper eyelids, and / or bags under the eyes. However these individuals, as in any cosmetic procedure, must also be physically healthy, psychologically stable, and have realistic goals and expectations.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

Upper eyelid surgery can improve two common problem areas: 1.) excess skin on the upper eyelid itself, often called “hooding of the upper lid, and 2.) puffiness in the inner corner and middle of the upper eyelid caused by herniation (pushing forward) of fat. The hooding of the upper eyelid can obstruct your vision, so its removal could actually improve the quality of your peripheral vision. Puffiness in the upper eyelid can cause patients to look old and tired; and upper eyelid surgery can create a more alert and younger appearance. Upper eyelid surgery can enhance the shape, position, and depth of the eyelid crease.

Lower Eyelid Surgery

Lower eyelid surgery is performed to remove the puffiness found in the lower eyelid. Some people refer to this as “bags” under your eyes. The accumulation of excess fat and skin, resulting from age and other factors, causes that puffy appearance in the lower eyelid, which makes people look older and tired. Removal of bulging fat in the lower eyelid can result in a younger, rested and alert appearance.

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty

For younger patients and those with thicker, more elastic skin, the surgeon may recommend transconjunctival blepharoplasty. During this procedure, a tiny incision is made inside the lower eyelid and fat is removed with tiny forceps. No skin is removed and the incision is closed with dissolving sutures.

Asian Eyelid Surgery

Asian eyes have a different appearance than Western eyes. With Asian eyelids, the anatomical difference is that the orbital septum (the layer that holds back the fat) extends lower down towards the eyelid margin. This procedure is also known as double eyelid operation and Asian blepharoplasty. The surgeon performs the procedure similar, but not identical to, traditional eyelid surgery. Their goal is to enhance the patient’s eyelid appearance without taking away any ethnic features. Most surgeons do not advise patients to undergo eyelid surgery in order to “Westernize” their appearance.

Common Questions about Eyelid Surgery

What are the Benefits to this Procedure?

There are many reasons why a person would want to undergo eyelid surgery. Even though reasons vary from person to person, the more common include:

• Improving peripheral vision
• Gaining a fresher, more alert appearance
• Restoring a youthful eyelid appearance
• Enhancing overall appearance
• Gaining a boost in self-confidence