Getting older changes our face in many different ways. One of the areas that are most affected is the very thin skin around the eyes. As our natural production of collagen and elastin slows down, and cellular changes caused by sun damage and pollution increase, the skin around the eyes can start to become looser. This can result in some sagging, particularly around the upper eyelids, where gravity also starts to affect the way that skin sits against the face. In some cases, this sagging is severe enough to start to obscure your vision. It can also make you look tired and older than you really are. Fortunately, it’s easy enough to deal with this cosmetic issue thanks to upper blepharoplasty. 
What Is Upper Blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty refers to a surgical procedure designed to address excess or loose skin on the upper eyelid. You may also hear of it referred to as an ‘eyelid lift’. The surgery itself is normally very straightforward when carried out by an experienced cosmetic surgeon and be carried out using either local anesthetic or a combination of local anesthetic and sedation. All incisions are made along the natural folds of the eyelid where possible, which helps to hide any scarring. Excess skin is removed and discarded, and then the area secured using sutures.
Upper blepharoplasty is performed as an outpatient, meaning you can expect to go home the very same day as your surgery, although you will need someone to drive you home. You also won’t be able to drive until your surgeon is satisfied that your eyelids are healing, and your vision isn’t impaired. Some post-surgical discomfort and swelling are normal, but you’ll be given medications to help. Most patients can return to work in a few days and results will be visible within six weeks, once the swelling has dissipated.
Am I A Good Candidate For Blepharoplasty?
Before you can have an upper blepharoplasty procedure, you’ll first need to attend a consultation so your surgeon can evaluate if you are a good candidate for the procedure. They will look at the quality of the skin on your eyes and the extent of its sagging and drooping. They will also want to find out about your reasons for undergoing surgery and make sure you have realistic expectations for the outcome of your procedure. Finally, they will want to look at your medical history to ensure you are fit and well enough for the procedure.
Typically, people who are found to be good candidates for blepharoplasty:
- Have upper eyelids that are particularly heavy or hooded
- Look tired even when they are smiling and happy
- Find that their eyelids impair their vision
- Understand the risks involved in the surgery
- Are prepared to follow pre-surgery and post-surgery instructions to minimize their risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome from treatment
- Have realistic expectations for how their eyelids are going to look after surgery, and know that while the surgery may give them more confidence, it won’t necessarily change their life
To find out if you are a candidate for upper blepharoplasty, contact Treasure Coast Eye Specialists in Port St. Lucie and Stuart, Florida at (772) 400-2400 and (772) 286-0007 to schedule a consultation today!
