Do Saggy Eyelids Make You Look Older Than You Are?

By Syed Amiry, DO

Reston Dermatology & Cosmetic Center

. http://www.restondermatology.com/

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Do Saggy Eyelids Make You Look Older Than You Are?

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) Could Be the Answer

Eyelid surgery (technically called blepharoplasty) is a procedure to remove fat, usually along with excess skin and muscle, from the eyelids. Eyelid surgery can correct drooping upper lids, which can make you look older and more tired than you feel, and may even interfere with your vision. Eyelid surgery won't, however, remove crow's feet or other wrinkles, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows.

Best Candidates

The best candidates are men and women who are physically healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in their expectations. Most candidates are 35 or older, but if droopy, baggy eyelids run in your family, you may decide to have eyelid surgery at a younger age.

Anesthesia

The surgery is either performed under local anesthesia, which numbs only the area around your eyes, or performed under general anesthesia.

The Surgery

Blepharoplasty usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. In a typical procedure, the surgeon makes incisions following the natural lines of your eyelids in the creases of your upper lids. The incisions may extend into the crow's feet or laugh lines at the outer corners of your eyes.

Working through these incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from underlying fatty tissue and muscle, removes excess fat, and often trims sagging skin and muscle. The incisions are then closed with very fine sutures.

Getting Back To Normal

Most people feel ready to go out in public (and back to work) in 7-10 days. By then, depending on your rate of healing and your doctor's instructions, you'll probably be able to wear makeup to help conceal the bruising that remains.

You may be sensitive to sunlight, wind, and other irritants for several weeks, so you should wear sunglasses and a special sun block made for eyelids when you go out.

It is especially important to avoid activities that raise your blood pressure, including bending, lifting, and rigorous sports. You may also be told to avoid alcohol, since it causes fluid retention.

Your New Look

Healing is a gradual process, and your scars will eventually fade to a thin, nearly invisible white line, but for six or more months after surgery, your scars may remain slightly pink.

On the other hand, the positive results of your eyelid surgery the more alert and youthful look will last for years. For many people, these results are permanent.

Blepharoplasty can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence. As always, discuss with your cosmetic surgeon what you want to accomplish. As with any cosmetic procedure, the most important element is to develop a trusting relationship with your doctor and feel comfortable with him or her.

In choosing your doctor, it is important to look at not only their credentials and experience, but to also ensure that comfort level is there.