Natural aging can impact the appearance of your eyes in several ways. This includes fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. You may also notice under-eye bags or hollowness. As you get older, collagen and elastin production declines. This starts as early as your 20s and continues as you age. Beyond natural aging, lifestyle factors can wreak havoc on the appearance of your eyes. Smoking, excessive drinking, poor sleep, and sun exposure can accelerate natural aging.
Topical products alone cannot address these issues. Cosmetic intervention is necessary to combat the signs of aging. Quad blepharoplasty is a highly popular and effective treatment option for tired, aging eyes. Many people worry about how this will change their appearance. So, will quad blepharoplasty change the shape of your eye? Below is helpful information about the procedure and why it may be right for you.
Will Quad Blepharoplasty Change the Shape of Your Eyes?
Quad blepharoplasty is designed to rejuvenate tired and aged eyes. It is not meant to change the fundamental shape of your eyes. Fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin can impact your self-confidence. Aging under-eyes can make you look much older than you are due to hollowness or bags. A board-certified oculoplastic surgeon performs quad blepharoplasty. It addresses both the upper and lower eyelids together. This offers a complete refresh of the eyes. The surgery enhances your natural look. It does not completely change the shape and look of your eyes.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty addresses the upper eyelid area. The surgeon begins by marking the natural eyelid crease. This helps reduce visible scarring after surgery. The surgeon uses local anesthesia to numb the area. Sedation is also used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. In some cases, quad blepharoplasty may be performed under general anesthesia. We will discuss this at your consultation so you are prepared for surgery.
Once you are anesthetized, the surgeon will make the incision along the marked area. The surgeon removes the excess skin and muscle. The surgeon removes or repositions the fat, depending on your needs. This smooths puffiness near the brow bone. The muscle may also be tightened, if necessary. Once complete, the incisions are closed up with sutures.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid surgery addresses the area under the eyes. Two common approaches to lower blepharoplasty exist. In some cases, the surgeon places an incision inside the lower eyelid. In other cases, it is placed right under the lash line. The first approach is used when fat protrusion is the main concern. As with upper blepharoplasty, this is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
Once you are sedated, the incisions are made. The surgeon removes excess skin and muscle. The fat under the eyes is either removed or repositioned. This creates a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and upper cheek. When paired with upper blepharoplasty, it provides comprehensive results that leave you looking years younger.
Am I a Good Candidate for Quad Blepharoplasty?
Quad blepharoplasty is a great solution to the signs of aging on the upper and lower eyelids. However, not everyone is a good candidate. The first step in determining if you are a good candidate is scheduling a consultation. A skilled surgeon can evaluate your eye structure and skin laxity. Consider the following candidacy requirements if you are interested in quad blepharoplasty.
Good Overall Health
Your health plays a significant role in whether you are a good candidate. You should be in good overall health. If you have any medical conditions, they should be well-managed before surgery. Uncontrolled medical conditions can complicate surgery and recovery. Candidates should also be non-smokers. If you smoke, let your surgeon know right away. You will need to stop smoking before and after surgery.
Skin Quality
Skin and tissue quality also matter. The surgeon will assess your skin elasticity to see how well the tissue is likely to heal. This is especially critical as you will be getting two procedures. Smokers have an increased risk of delayed healing. This is why it is necessary to stop smoking and using nicotine products before surgery.
Realistic Expectations
It is essential to have realistic expectations for surgery. Quad blepharoplasty includes more extensive surgical intervention than upper or lower eyelid surgery alone. Understanding the realities of the recovery process and timeline is key. Realistic expectations about your results are also important. Quad blepharoplasty is a permanent procedure. However, it does not stop the natural aging process.
Focus the first few days entirely on rest. When you feel up to it, light walking around the house can help promote blood circulation. Take it slow and gradually add movement to your day. Attend all of your follow-up appointments after surgery. This helps ensure you recover as expected. Your surgeon can make any necessary modifications at your appointments. Follow their aftercare instructions exactly for the best results. Most patients are back to their routine within two weeks. Wait one month, or until your surgeon clears you, to engage in strenuous exercise.
Recovering from Quad Blepharoplasty
Recovery takes roughly ten days to two weeks. Most patients take two weeks off to fully recover. It is best to take it slow, as rushing can affect your results. You will notice swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort right after surgery. This is normal and will gradually subside as you recover. Several effective ways can help manage these symptoms. Keep your head elevated, even when you sleep. This helps reduce swelling. A cold compress can also help manage swelling. Take your prescribed medication on schedule to streamline the recovery process.
Leading Board-Certified Oculoplastic Surgeon
The eyes are one of the first areas where the signs of aging show up. If you want to refresh your eyes, contact the team at Jennifer Murdock Oculofacial Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!
