Healthy, youthful-looking eyes help highlight natural beauty, reveal how you feel to others, and much more. They make all the colors of your surroundings and what is going on around you more visible. Your eyes also help make visual connection effortless. When puffy or excess skin hinder beauty and impact your vision, it's time to do something about it.
If you’re living with baggy eyelids or drooping skin that affects your confidence and how you see, then blepharoplasty may be the ideal solution for you! This cosmetic eyelid surgery can provide you with many advantages, including rejuvenating facial appeal quickly.
What is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is also known as eyelid surgery, or cosmetic eyelid lift. The purpose of the procedure is to remove excess skin and add or eliminate fat from your eyelids. An upper blepharoplasty surgery allows your cosmetic plastic surgeon to remove fat and skin from above the eyelid area. It is also used to help bring the skin together and create an eyelid crease.
Lower eyelid surgery involves treatment directly below the lower eyelash line. Cosmetic plastic surgeons often use this technique to eliminate puffiness and remove fat. Blepharoplasty procedures can be performed as a standalone service or combined with others, such as resurfacing treatments to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Why is Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery Performed?
While often performed for cosmetic purposes, blepharoplasty can provide a resolution for potential health and functional concerns. Excess eyelid skin can create a drooping, heavy-looking eyelid. Results of this can include an aged appearance, puffiness around the eye, and can even get in the way of your vision.
By removing fat and loose skin from the upper or lower eyelids, your cosmetic plastic surgeon can improve vision, enhance facial aesthetics, and bolster confidence.
Who Can Qualify?
Ideal candidates for cosmetic eyelid surgery are those in good general health without conditions that can make healing and recovery difficult. Typically, blepharoplasty is recommended for individuals between the ages of ages 25-65. However, if your concerns stem from genetic factors, you may be able to undergo treatment sooner. You must also have realistic expectations for treatment.
Blepharoplasty treatment may be right for you if you have any of the following:
- Compromised vision from drooping skin
- Loose, sagging skin that covers your eyelid shape
- Puffiness in the lower eyelids
- Bags under your eyes
- Hollows between your eyes
- Excess skin on your upper eyelids
How Do I Prepare for My Blepharoplasty?
Before your procedure, you must undergo a detailed exam and consultation discussing cosmetic eyelid surgery, its benefits, and potential risks. It is also recommended that you have your medical doctor approve you for any surgery that may require sedation or general anesthesia. You will need to follow your cosmetic plastic surgeon’s preparation instructions throughout and carefully.
Be sure to review post-op instructions the day before your procedure. Your treatment guidelines will also help you receive medications for pain relief. They will also tell you which items to get to maximize your comfort and ensure successful healing and recovery. These items can include ice and gel packs, gauze, and artificial tears.
What Can I Expect During Recovery?
Blepharoplasty usually involves quick recovery times. While some swelling and bruising are typical and worsen the day after surgery, these symptoms should disappear shortly after. Be sure to use a cold compress to help reduce swelling and bruising around the face and eyes. You need to do this during the first 48 hours after surgery. Minor activities and light walking are good ways to help you heal properly.
Many individuals return to their daily actives and normalcy anywhere after seven to ten days. Two weeks after your eyelid surgery, any bruising or swelling should vanish.
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost?
The total cost of your blepharoplasty procedure depends on your needs and treatment complexity. Because eyelid surgery is highly personalized, the price can vary. The treatment cost is also only part of the total price, which does not often include sedation, anesthesia, or other expenses. You will need to consult with your cosmetic plastic surgeon to get an exact quote.
Can Insurance Cover My Blepharoplasty?
Most insurance providers only cover eyelid surgery if they consider it to be restorative. This means that if you choose treatment to remove sagging eyelid skin because it blocks your vision, you have a greater chance for coverage. Some carriers require proof of vision impairment from an examination before approving the procedure.
At Baltimore-Washington Facial Plastic Surgery, our board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon, Dr. Thomas Le, provides full blepharoplasty treatment throughout Ellicott City. Our team is proud to help individuals feel confident about their appearance and see more clearly. To discover if eyelid surgery suits your cosmetic goals, contact us to schedule your consultation today!