Blepharoplasty: An effective treatment for hooded eyelids and under-eye bagsPublished on 13th February 2019
Blepharoplasty
Many people are bothered by bags under their eyes, or by drooping or hooded upper eyelids. Sometimes, individuals suffer from both problems at once. Problems with the lower eyelids often include a baggy and hollow appearance and the skin can appear thin. Sagging skin on the upper eye can even affect peripheral vision. Both these problems have a very ageing effect on the eye area, and patients are often desperate to improve the appearance of the eyes. These are problems that often get worse with age because the muscles supporting the eyelids weaken. It is common for people to seek surgical treatment to rectify these problems. Here, we answer common questions about blepharoplasty.
What is a blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is the term for the cosmetic surgical treatment of the eyelids. It refers to the removal of skin, tissue, and fat from the area, and the tightening and reinforcing the supporting structures. It is usually performed under general anaesthetic but is sometimes available under local anaesthetic and sedation. The procedure is occasionally carried out to correct deformities and defects but is most commonly performed to aesthetically modify the eye area. There are two different types – upper and lower blepharoplasty. Upper blepharoplasty refers to the surgical treatment of hooded or droopy eyelids, in which incisions are made in the natural creases of the upper lids and the folds of loose skin and protruding fat is excised. Lower blepharoplasty refers to the removal of under eye bags in which protruding fat from the lower eye area is removed via an incision just under the lower lash line. Patients often opt to have both upper and lower eyelid procedures together if they suffer problems with both the upper and lower eyelids.
What results can I expect?
The procedure has a tightening effect, and the eyes will appear rejuvenated giving a more youthful and less tired look.
It is important to note that blepharoplasty does not address the problem of dark circles under the eye or the issue of crow’s feet.
Recovery
It is usually necessary to take a week or two off work, with lower blepharoplasty sometimes taking longer to recover from than upper blepharoplasty. Some patients experience quite severe bruising, others barely any. Using a cold pack on the eyes for a few days can reduce the swelling, as can keeping your head elevated for a few days postoperatively, including when asleep.
It is common for the eyes to be irritated and sensitive for a few days after surgery and they can be watery for up to a few weeks afterwards. Mild pain relief is usually sufficient.
Scarring fades over several months until they are virtually undetectable.
How common is the procedure?
Every year, thousands of blepharoplasties are carried out in the UK. The procedure is predominantly carried out on women, who account for 88% of procedures.
What are the potential side effects?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, and your surgeon will be able to discuss how these might apply to you.at your consultation.
Again, as with any cosmetic surgical procedure, it is important that you know that surgery is the right option for you, and you are fully aware what results you can expect.
Blepharoplasty with Liverpool Cosmetic Clinic
Here at Liverpool Cosmetic Clinic we work with the UK’s leading consultant plastic surgeons. At your consultation, you can discuss the procedure in detail and ask as many questions as you like to ensure you have all the information you need to decide whether the procedure is right for you.
Liverpool Cosmetic Clinic provides blepharoplasty consultations in Liverpool or Manchester and surgery is performed at Chester, Liverpool and Manchester, in comfortable, accredited quality private hospitals where you will receive care of the very highest standard.
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