Having droopy eyelids can in some cases distract from one’s appearance and in other cases provide uncomfortable vision complications. Those living with allergies or edema may often experience exacerbated symptoms due to having droopy eyelids. Considering a blepharoplasty, or droopy eyelid surgery, may be the correct course of action both for cosmetic and functional reasons. Dr. Leake has the training and expertise needed to provide you with fast and beautiful blepharoplasty results with little downtime.
IS AN EYELID LIFT NECESSARY?
When it comes to deciding whether or not a blepharoplasty is necessary, it’s important to consider one’s intention for having the surgery. Cosmetic eyelid surgery is not medically needed and is performed solely for aesthetic reasons. This type of surgery is often undertaken by those who develop droopy eyelids due to hereditary reasons and age. Functional surgery on the other hand, is performed for medical reasons such as difficulty wearing glasses, irritation, and forehead discomfort. Regardless of the reason for surgery, the procedure is fairly straightforward and satisfactory results can be expected several weeks after treatment.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE LIKE?
Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. The procedure involves making incisions in the crease of the upper eyelid and right beneath the lashes or behind the lower eyelid. These cuts are made precisely so as to retain the natural appearance of your eyes after surgery. Following the incisions, Dr. Leake will use glue or sutures to carefully piece back your skin. In some cases, CO2 lasers may be used for resurfacing skin (to reduce wrinkles) and added incisions to elevate the eyebrows may be needed.
WHAT RESULTS CAN I EXPECT AFTER AN EYELID LIFT?
Following your procedure, topical antibiotic ointment should be applied to avoid infections. Applying cold packs to the eyes on the first day should reduce swelling. While mild discomfort is common, narcotics are rarely needed for pain management and a standard non-prescription pain reliever should help. You can expect to see full results in several weeks following the surgery.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Blepharoplasty alone is not always the answer to redundant skin around the eyes. Premature aging and drooping of the brow can cause a tired, angry look with frown lines and sagging skin. These can be corrected with the addition of a brow lift (temporal or direct). Renuvion skin resurfacing, which offers unparalleled skin tightening, can also lift the brows beautifully, perfectly setting the eyes. Likewise, filler and/or Botox can lift the glabella and lateral brow to reduce redundant skin around the eyes for a fresher, younger look.
It’s important to note that the bags around the upper cheek and lower eyelids are not always attributable to the lower lid; malar festoons, which develop when the muscles below the eye weaken and degenerate, can cause a bag between the lower lid and cheek. TempSure Envi, Accutite, and direct excision can fix such a problem.
Although there will be improvement in facial wrinkles with an eyelid lift, it will not address all the superficial lines that come from premature aging, overexposure to weather, and genetics. Skin resurfacing addresses textural wrinkles and imperfections. Non-surgical options to improve your eyes include Botox, injectables, and skin care products.
BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS
EYELID LIFT SURGERY IN ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA
Rejuvenate aging eyes and take years off your appearance. Dr. Leake is a skilled medical professional dedicated to improving the health and well being of the St. Augustine community. Make an appointment today by calling (904) 810-5434 or submitting your information via the form below.