About Eyelid Surgery
The eyes are the windows to the soul, and a lot of the time they are the first thing that others notice about you. Unlike full facial rejuvenation, which often requires significant downtime, the eyes are one of the easiest and quickest areas to rejuvenate. Blepharoplasty, more commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a quick and simple procedure to rejuvenate the eye region and drastically improve the overall appearance of the face. Dr. Athré is one of the best surgeons in the Houston area for eyelid surgery.
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Effects of Aging on the Eyelid
As aging occurs, the thin skin around the eyelids begins to lose its elasticity and its ability to stretch. As a result, the skin of the upper eyelid can begin to overhang and droop. The appearance of “crow’s feet,” or deep-set wrinkles, can also appear around the eye. Other signs of aging, such as hollowing, bulging fat due to thinning skin, or excess skin around the lower eyelid and cheek, can typically be seen around the lower eyelid.
Non-surgical Approaches to Eyelid Rejuvenation
Not smoking and not rubbing the area around your eyes can significantly help prevent the early onset or wrinkles and under eye sagging. For patients who wish to drastically reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eye area, BOTOX® may be appropriate. BOTOX may also provide a slight lift of the eyebrows, causing the amount of excess skin on the upper eyelid to appear less significant. Peels and laser skin resurfacing can also firm up loose skin and reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles around the eye.
Eyelid Surgery Process
Upper Blepharoplasty Process (Upper Eyelid Surgery)
The most common surgical procedure is called an upper blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift. Blepharoplasty surgery removes excess skin and fat to return the eyelids back to a youthful and natural look. Many factors, such as the natural shape of the eye, ethnic background, and skin type, should be taken into consideration in order to obtain the desired post-operative effect and to minimize scarring.
Prior to the procedure, the functionality of the eye to open and close properly as well as its ability to crease properly are carefully examined. Most blepharoplasty procedures are done under local anesthesia (anesthesia near the eye area) and take approximately one hour. Full recovery and return to normal activity within a week after the procedure is common.
Lower Blepharoplasty Process (Lower Eyelid Surgery)
Lower eyelid surgery is called a lower blepharoplasty. This procedure is done in two phases.
First, fat is removed slowly from three possible fat pads under the lower eyelid. This process is done conservatively to ensure that a youthful fullness still remains.
In the second phase, excess skin is either removed from the lower lid, or tightened by a peel or laser treatment. Through this process, wrinkles and any remaining sagging or loose tissue can be minimized.
There are many approaches to performing a lower eyelid blepharoplasty including the transconjunctival (through the inner surface of the lower lid) and subciliary (external approach right under the lashes). Dr. Athré is well-versed in all of these approaches and will customize the procedure depending on what is best for your particular case.
About Asian Eyelid Surgery
Asian patients may have one or more of the following upper eyelid characteristics that separate them from patients with other ethnic backgrounds. Some Hispanic and Indian patients may also have some of these same features, such as:
Possible lack of a supratarsal crease or “double eyelid”
Epicanthal fold and the medial portion of the eyelid as it contacts the nose
Fullness and excess fat of middle and lateral portions of the upper eyelid
These characteristics can add complexity to eyelid surgery in Asian patients. These patients need more detailed analysis to prevent over-Westernizing their eyelids which can cause excessive and possible irreversible scarring.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery and Results
Recovery after eyelid surgery is typically quick and with minor discomfort. Bruises and swelling around the eyelids usually begin to disappear a day or two after surgery with the help of cool compresses. Patients usually recover fully and can return to normal activities near the 8 to 9 day mark after blepharoplasty.
FAQs
How much does eyelid surgery cost?
Eyelid surgery cost starts at $2,200.
How long does eyelid surgery take?
Eyelid procedures typically take only 1-2 hours.
How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?
Patients usually recover fully from eyelid surgery within 8-9 days.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Eyelid surgery is minimally painful, and cold compresses and pain medication can help ease the discomfort during recovery.
Does eyelid surgery leave scars?
Eyelid surgery may leave a small, temporary scar that will heal over time until it is virtually nonexistent.
Are you awake during eyelid surgery?
Eyelid procedures are done under local anesthesia, which will numb the area of the incision.
Client Testimonial
“Dr. Athre and his team are fantastic!!! I had a upper and lower eyelid surgery done and he did a wonderful job. He is an artist and a perfectionist. He exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend Dr. Athre.”
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Athré has many years of experience performing blepharoplasty and helping his patients achieve their aesthetic goals. If you’re contemplating eyelid surgery near the Houston area, contact Athré Facial Plastics today.