Are you trying to learn more about the different types of eyelid surgery? If yes, check out this comprehensive guide from Dr. Popp, a fully certified cosmetic surgeon in Omaha, Nebraska.
In 2018, there were over 17 million surgical and minimally-invasive procedures performed in the U.S., a number that has risen each year.
Among these include many types of eyelid procedures. Eyelid surgery does many things for the patients who seek them including, adding a more rested, youthful appearance, increased symmetry, a boost of self-confidence, and in certain instances, the ability to see better.
If you have been curious about the different types of eyelid surgery and wondered if you might benefit from one of these procedures, this article will be of help to you.
Let us look at the different types of eyelid surgery and what you can expect from the results:
Eyelid Lift
An eyelid “lift” refers to either ptosis repair surgery or an upper eyelid blepharoplasty. This general term refers to the end results which can appear to be much the same. The two are often confused.
Blepharoplasty is the name given to surgery in which excess skin and occasionally fatty deposits are trimmed away from the upper eyelid. Blepharoplasties can be performed on either the upper or lower eyelid, or both.
Ptosis repair surgery involves repairing the lifting muscle of the upper eyelid resulting in a true elevation of the height of the upper lid. In contrast, UPPER eyelid blepharoplasty primarily removes excess skin and has an “apparent” elevating quality (“opening up the eye”), when in fact, just droopy excess skin is removed in this procedure. Both procedures can be done together in the same surgical setting.
Upper Blepharoplasty
For patients who struggle with an excess upper eyelid skin, upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a good option. This procedure is also suitable for those with bulging fat pads in their upper lids.
An upper eyelid blepharoplasty includes the removal of excess skin and fat through a surgical procedure, and on occasion the removal of the thin strip of muscle known as the “orbicularis oculi“.
Removing fat and/or the muscle, eliminates extra bulk that weighs the eyelid down. Bulging fat pads can be usually be removed without removing the skin.
Not only can excess skin of the upper eyelid lead to a sleepy appearance, but it can also add strain to a patient’s eyelids causing them to work harder to keep the lids open. Upper eyelid surgery can optimize a patient’s field of vision.
Lower Blepharoplasty
A lower eyelid blepharoplasty is the term used to improve the appearance of bags and loose skin in the lower eyelid. During this procedure, the excess fat deposits, skin, and muscle that might be adding to the appearance of dark circles, wrinkles, and/or puffiness are removed.
This procedure helps to tighten and reposition the lower eyelids and creates a more contoured appearance.
Lower eyelid blepharoplasty requires a small incision made along the lower lids, either just outside the lash line or inside of the lid itself. It is through this small incision that fat and excess tissue is removed or repositioned.
Patients enjoy a refreshed appearance after a lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
Am I A Good Candidate?
Now that you are aware of some of the different types of eyelid surgery, how do you know if you would be a good candidate for any one of these procedures?
If you have any puffy bulging fatty deposits, sagging excess skin around your eyes, droopy upper eyelids, then you might be a good candidate for this type of eyelid surgery.
Be aware that eyelid surgery is not a fix-all. You should have realistic expectations about what eyelid surgery can do for you as an individual. This is something your doctor can discuss with you beforehand.
Eyelid surgery does not fix crows feet or a droopy brow. A brow lift might be the more suitable option if a drooping brow is what bothers you most.
Patients with severe dry eyes or eye infections are not good candidates for eyelid surgery.
If you smoke, or if your general health is suffering, you may not a be a good candidate for the different types of eyelid surgery.
Your doctor will determine whether your general health and ability to handle anesthesia allow you to move forward with eyelid surgery.
And while there are no specific age limits for different types of eyelid surgery, most surgeons will not take on patients who are under 18 years of age.
The eligibility of older patients is based on general health.
What Should I Expect After Eyelid Surgery?
In almost every case, eyelid surgery is performed on outpatient basis. Though you will be able to leave after the procedure, you will not be able to drive yourself home, so make sure you arrange for someone to pick you up.
Plan to rest and recover for 2-4 days following your surgery. Do not attempt to return to work for at 24 hours minimum though it is ideal that you are able to abstain from working for 4 days.
Avoid strenuous activities for the next couple of weeks including heavy lifting.
As you rest, use several pillows to keep your head elevated. Doing so will minimize swelling. Be prepared for bruising and swelling around the eyes in the days following surgery.
Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your eyelids post-surgery and how to apply cold compresses.
You will also visit with your doctor in the weeks following your procedure to check on your progress and final results.
Schedule Your Appointment to Discuss Eyelid Surgery
Now that you’ve learned a little bit more about the different types of eyelid surgery and how they can improve your appearance and confidence, we invite you to learn more about our practice and how we can help you.
Call Dr. Popp Cosmetic at (402) 391-4558 to schedule a consultation where we will answer all of your questions and make a recommendation for the best procedure for you.
