As we age, changes in our facial appearance become inevitable. The upper and lower eyelid skin loses its elasticity, leading to a tired look. The orbital septum, which supports the eyelid fat, weakens, causing the upper and/or lower eyelids to protrude. Typically, these changes are noticeable in the mid to late 40s, but they can occur as early as the mid to late 30s.

In addition to the skin around the eyes, facial skin also loses volume, and the cheeks and lower face begin to sag, creating jowls. The neckline becomes less defined. These changes often occur simultaneously, making it common to combine procedures such as a face and neck lift with blepharoplasty for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Treatments

While non-surgical treatments like Botox and fillers can address some signs of aging, overreliance on these options without considering surgical interventions can lead to unsatisfactory outcomes. It is crucial to receive a comprehensive evaluation from a board-certified plastic surgeon who understands the complex anatomy of the face, including the skin, soft tissue, muscle, and bone structure, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty involves the surgical removal of excess skin, a strip of the orbicularis oculi muscle, and underlying fat that has protruded due to weakened support. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Asian Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Asian upper eyelid surgery requires a tailored approach to enhance the eyelid shape without westernizing it. The procedure focuses on creating a balanced and natural-looking eyelid fold by understanding the unique anatomy of the Asian eyelid. This delicate surgery is performed under local anesthesia to ensure the proper formation of the crease during the procedure, ensuring patient comfort and optimal results.

Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty aims to remove bulging fat and create a smooth transition to the cheek, known as the tear trough. This can be achieved through a skin incision when a small strip of redundant skin needs to be excised or through a transconjunctival approach from inside the eyelid, avoiding external scars. Proper correction of the tear trough area is crucial for a natural and harmonious appearance. In some cases, fat can be draped from the lower eyelid to fill in the tear trough area, differing significantly from filling it with grafted fat or fillers alone.

Addressing Ptosis

Ptosis of the upper eyelid, characterized by the upper eyelid being in a lower position due to weakened levator muscle function, can affect the eye's shape and appearance. Ptosis may be unilateral or bilateral, causing asymmetry. Additionally, the brow position needs to be evaluated, as it impacts the upper eyelid's position and shape. Mild ptosis can be corrected with blepharoplasty, while more severe cases may require a frontalis sling. A thorough evaluation will determine the most appropriate treatment.