Changes above and below the eyes are common as you get older. The upper eyelids may droop due to skin sagging. You may also notice fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness. The lower eyelids can also change dramatically. Fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, under-eye bags, and hollowness are common complaints. These changes to your eyes can make you look tired and much older than you are. Patients who can benefit from blepharoplasty generally have these types of concerns. You may wonder, “Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?”
Below you will find helpful information on why this treatment is right for you.
Am I a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses issues around the eyes. The surgery is performed by a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon. Depending on your unique issues, you may be a good candidate for upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. Below are the candidacy requirements for both surgeries.
Candidate for Upper Eyelid Surgery
Excess skin on the upper eyelids is one of the most common reasons patients get blepharoplasty. Over time, the skin above the eye loses its natural elasticity. Collagen and elastin are important proteins found in the skin. Their natural production begins to decline as early as their late twenties. This results in skin losing its natural firmness and volume, leading to the signs of aging around the eyes. The skin around the eyes is also thinner and much more delicate. This makes it more susceptible to the signs of aging. Upper eyelid surgery effectively removes the excess skin and fat in the upper eyelid.
If you have upper eyelid skin that sags downward, upper eyelid surgery may be right for you. In moderate cases, the skin folds over the natural eyelid crease. However, in more severe cases, the skin folds over the lash line. This impacts more than just your aesthetic. Many people report functional issues that make daily tasks difficult. Things like driving and reading can become much more challenging. You may also notice eye fatigue, neck pain, and headaches. These often occur when people overcompensate for sagging eyelids.
Candidate for Lower Eyelid Surgery
Under-eye issues can vary widely. Common signs of aging under the eyes include fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, under-eye bags, and hollowness. The natural aging process is impacted by gravity. As you get older, the small fat pads that cushion the eye can shift downward. This can result in hollowness and cast a shadow below the eye. The fat pad can also shift forward. This creates a visible bulge beneath the lower eyelid. Lower blepharoplasty effectively removes the excess skin and fat under the eyes. It also repositions the fat when needed.
If you have issues with your lower eyelid, you may think you can correct it with conservative treatment options. Many people think it may be due to being tired or stressed. While this is a solution in some cases, it cannot address underlying structural issues. Fat prolapse and sagging skin cannot be corrected with topical products either. Surgical intervention is necessary to address the root cause. After treatment, you will notice a smoother and firmer under-eye area.
Candidacy Requirements for Blepharoplasty
Some candidates may benefit from upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. No matter what type of eyelid surgery is right for you, it is necessary to meet certain requirements.
Good Overall Health
Because blepharoplasty is a surgery, you must be in good overall health. If you have any medical conditions, they must be well-managed before you are cleared for surgery. Your surgeon will review your medical history and assess your current health. You should also be a non-smoker. If you do smoke, let your surgeon know right away. You will need to quit smoking before and after surgery. Doing so is necessary to reduce your risk of complications during and after surgery.
Realistic Expectations
Candidates for eyelid surgery must have realistic expectations. The surgery produces meaningful cosmetic and functional improvements to the eyes. The results are a long-lasting treatment option for issues on the upper and lower eyelids. However, the surgery does not stop the aging process. This means that it is essential to take care of your skin and health after surgery. Maintaining your results takes consistency and intentional care.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
The consultation involves a detailed clinical evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will review your health history and assess your current health. This includes any prior or existing eye conditions. They will also assess your eye anatomy and skin quality. Measurements of your lid position and photographs will also be taken to assist in surgical planning. If your sight is impacted, a visual field test may be performed.
Preparing for Blepharoplasty Surgery
Once the surgeon has determined that you are a good candidate for the procedure, you can move forward. You will be given a surgery date and instructions on how to prepare for surgery. It is necessary to follow these exactly, so you are prepared on the day of your surgery. Your surgeon will tailor the instructions to your unique needs. However, here are some common ways to prepare for surgery.
- Avoid certain medications, including blood thinners, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home and stay with you after surgery.
- Get your prescription and any over-the-counter medication in advance.
- Stock your home with recovery materials, including cold compresses, ointments, and pillows.
- Prepare meals in advance and stock your fridge to minimize cooking after surgery.
- Avoid consuming anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
- Remove your contact lenses before surgery and avoid using them afterward.
Leading Board-Certified Oculoplastic Surgeon
Eyelid surgery is highly effective in addressing the signs of aging on the eyes. If you want to refresh the look of your eyes, contact the team at Jennifer Murdock Oculofacial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!
