Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty is normally performed for cosmetic reasons but it is also chosen by older individuals whose sagging upper eyelids interfere with their vision. It can effectively correct the age-related changes that occur in the upper and lower eyelid that give the eyes a tired, sad, and sometimes angry appearance. These changes include drooping of skin, bulging of fat, and thickening of underlying muscle layers. Eyelid surgery won’t get rid of dark circles under the eyes, crow’s feet, or other facial wrinkles but it is often done along with other procedures such as laser resurfacing, filler injections, or forehead lifts which can treat such issues.
How the Eyelids Age
As we grow older, our skin begins to lose its elasticity, and with the effects of gravity, we develop excess skin on the upper and lower eyelids. The excess skin on the upper eyelids results in an extra fold that can hang over the eyelashes and obstruct vision. Whereas the excess skin on the lower eyelid creates wrinkles and swelling or puffiness.
In addition, the fat that cushions the eyeball from the skull can cause swelling in the upper and lower eyelids as well. This can occur when the thin membrane that holds the fat in place deteriorates allowing some of the fat deposits to leak into the lower eyelids and create swelling.
Why Have Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty
If you are in good health and want to rejuvenate your eyelids by minimizing the swelling or puffiness and droopy eyelids then you should consider eyelid surgery / blepharoplasty. It will help you look more alert and refreshed as well as look years younger. Since there are individuals who are genetically disposed to this condition, it can occur even to people at a relatively young age. Consequently, there is no recommended age when you should have eyelid surgery.
Furthermore, there are instances when droopy eyelids can interfere with vision. Droopy eyelids can form lids over the eyes that can reduce peripheral vision. Peripheral vision is important for activities such as reading and driving. That being so, in such cases, having eyelid surgery can help restore peripheral vision.
Eyelid surgery can also help you if your eyelid crease has disappeared. Basically, your eyelid crease is hidden under excess tissue and fat. Consequently, an upper eyelid lift can help reposition your eyelids up toward your forehead and reveal your crease.
Eyelid surgery can be performed as a single procedure but if you’d like to combine other procedures at the same time, a browlift is recommended. By combining the two procedures, you can improve the sagging of the eyelids along with an elevation of the eyebrows.
How Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty is Performed
Dr. Denton removes excess skin and fat are removed from the eyelids. In fact, in most cases, no skin incisions are required to treat the lower eyelids. If fine sutures are needed, they are removed after only 5 -7 days. Eyelid surgery, like any surgical procedure, may produce some initial scarring, but it is minimal and almost nonexistent after several months of healing. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within one week of having the procedure.
How Long do the Results of Eyelid Surgery Last?
The results of the procedure are often long-lasting. In fact, for most individuals, it is only necessary to perform an eyelid surgery / blepharoplasty once. However, if the procedure is performed at a relatively young age, it is normal to expect the skin to droop with age. As a result, some individuals may desire to have an additional procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Denton for Your Eyelid Surgery?
Dr. Andrew Denton is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, who has extensive experience and expertise in eyelid surgery – Caucasian and Asian procedures. He takes the time to consult with you and establish a customized treatment plan. Computer imaging can also be used to reflect the anticipated changes.
Dr. Denton’s philosophy is that the patient must be an equal member of the decision-making team so that he or she can make sound informed decisions and will be aware of the expected result. Therefore, he is willing to discuss a variety of treatment options to help you feel and look more confident.
Our private and comfortable offices are located in the heart of Vancouver’s medical corridor, just one block from Vancouver General Hospital. Our state-of-the-art on-site surgical suite allows all patient visits – from consultation through surgery and post-operative follow-up – to be scheduled at this location, adding simplicity, familiarity, and convenience to the patient experience.
Call us today at 604-879-3223 or contact us online to schedule your eyelid surgery consultation for a younger and healthier-looking you!