As you age, your skin gets thinner and less elastic, and the muscles around your eyes weaken and stretch. The inevitable result is drooping eyelids and under-eye bags. If these signs of aging are starting to bother you, it might be time for an eyelid lift.
What is Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)?
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, addresses signs of aging around the eyes. Commonly called an eyelid lift, this procedure improves sagging, excess skin, wrinkles, puffiness, and eye bags.
Your eyes are one of your most unique and expressive features. Unfortunately, aging eyelids can not only make you look older but also create a tired, angry, or sad expression. Dr. Stein can use blepharoplasty to help you regain a youthful, refreshed look that turns back the clock.
How Does an Eyelid Lift Work?
Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Some patients are primarily concerned with droopy upper lids; others want to address under-eye bags and puffiness.
Dr. Stein performs blepharoplasty on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia. He will make a small incision within the crease of the eyelid for upper blepharoplasty or inside the lower lid for lower blepharoplasty. He then removes excess skin, tightens the muscles, and repositions the fat pads. Depending on the extent of your personalized procedure, an eyelid lift takes approximately one hour.
What’s the Best Age for an Eyelid Lift?
Everyone ages differently. Most patients have an eyelid lift after age 40 when signs of aging in the eye area typically become noticeable. However, some people develop under-eye bags earlier or are simply unhappy with their natural eyelid appearance and may have blepharoplasty at a younger age.
It’s ultimately up to you to decide when and if you want to undergo a procedure like blepharoplasty to reverse signs of aging. If you’re unsure, a consultation with Dr. Stein can help determine the best option. He will evaluate your eyes, discuss your goals, and answer any questions you have about the procedure. Dr. Stein will also review your medical history and determine your candidacy for the procedure.
What to Expect After Blepharoplasty
You’ll need to plan on approximately one week of downtime after blepharoplasty. Swelling, discomfort, and bruising are normal during this time. You may also temporarily have watery eyes, light sensitivity, and blurry vision after the procedure. Most patients can resume all regular activities within two weeks.
How Long Does an Eyelid Lift Last?
The results of your eyelid lift will become apparent as swelling subsides, and these will be long-lasting. Blepharoplasty lasts several years, sometimes a decade or more. A lower eyelid lift typically lasts longer than an upper eyelid lift. The aging process will continue, but you’ll likely always look better than you would have without the procedure.
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in blepharoplasty? If you would like to schedule an in-person consultation, please fill out the form on this page or call (919) 261-7099, and one of our knowledgeable medical staff members at Stein Plastic Surgery will reach out to you promptly.
Stein Plastic Surgery is located in the Raleigh, Durham, and Southeast NC areas serving patients.
