Types of Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty or Eye Lift)

The eyelids (upper and lower) could drop down because of various factors such as age, trauma or due to certain medical conditions. Sagging eye bags, wrinkles and loose skin are the most common concerns. It is typical that when individuals reach 45 years of age and above, there is a natural reduction in the firmness and structure near the eyes. The eyelids start to loosen and expand causing it to drop. Droopy eyelid not only make one look older but at times it can impact vision. Certain medical conditions such as ptosis, diabetes, myasthenia gravis, stroke, paralysis and others can cause droopy eyelid. A cosmetologist can cure this condition by performing an eyelid surgery. It is also referred to as blepharoplasty or eye lift procedure.

What is Eyelid Surgery / Blepharoplasty?

Droopy eyelid can be treated by surgery. Blepharoplasty is a type of cosmetic surgery that aims at treating loose and sagging skin of the eyelids. Excess fat and skin around the eyelids are removed and the skin is made tight. Though most eyelid surgeries are performed for cosmetic reasons, it is also done to improve vision. In aged individuals, the sagging would be severe that it interferes with the vision.

An eyelid lift surgery could take around 2 hours for the completion of the procedure. This is one of the most painless procedures in the cosmetic world. The eyelids would appear swollen post the procedure. Patients ideally feel well in 10-15 days’ time and can start their normal routine. The recovery time for upper eyelid surgery would not be more than 2 to 3 weeks. In a period of 3 months, the desired result can be obtained. Upper eyelid surgery can be done along with the lower eyelid and no separate procedure is required. An upper eyelid surgery could last more than 5 years and lower eyelid procedures may last longer.

In order to tighten sagging skin around the eyes without surgery, one could try eyelid exercises. Eyelid lift without surgery can be achieved by other cosmetic procedures such as fillers or botox, PRP (platelet rich plasma) and laser treatments. Most of these procedures use heat to tighten the skin and remove sag. There are other options in the market that provide instant eyelift which includes serums

Types of Eyelid Surgery

• Upper eyelid surgery: Procedure done when there is sagging skin and puffiness in the upper eyelid alone.
• Lower eyelid surgery: Eye bags formed due to lower eyelids dropping down can be treated with this procedure.
• Double eyelid surgery: When both upper and lower eyelids have significant skin sagging and wrinkles, a double eyelid surgery is preferred.
• Triple eyelid surgery: A triple eyelid surgery is done when the upper eyelid has two folds and the lower eyelid has bags.

Category Prone to Droopy Eyes

• Old Age: With age, the skin tends to become more lose and sagging.
• Race and ethnicity: drooping eyelids are more common among people in east-Asia.
• Body size and shape: Lean individuals are more prone to developing droopy eyelids
• Contact lenses: The muscles around the eye could weaken due to constant use of contact lenses. This can also lead to droopy eyes.

Eyelid Surgery Before and After

Double eyelid surgery is another form of blepharoplasty that is very commonly performed in countries like China (east-asia) and Korea. With this procedure a fold on the upper eyelid is created to make the eye appear more open and wide. Individuals with monolid eyelid prefer to get an additional crease or fold. Many undergo the procedure to make them feel happier and confident.

Cost of Eyelid Surgery

In India, the cost of eyelid surgery can be between INR 60k to 1 lakh. The exact cost would depend on whether the person is getting only the upper eyelid corrected or both. Other procedures such as sag removal, wrinkle reduction if included along with eyelid surgery can lead to an increase in price. Double eyelid surgery would also cost INR 60k and above.

FAQ:

1. How much does an eyelid lift Cost?

In India, the cost of blepharoplasty surgery can go upto INR 1 lakh. In countries such as UK and US, the cost is around INR 5 lakhs. India is known to provide quality cosmetic procedures, including eyelid surgery at very affordable prices.

2. How long does it take to recover from Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery requires a recovery period of 2 to 3 weeks. Post the procedure, there would be swelling and bruising in the eyelid region which would subside in around 10 days’ time. Individuals can start normal activities and go about their social life in 10 to 14 days.

3. Is Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Eyelid Surgery is one of the most painless cosmetic procedures. To give the patient a complete comfort in undergoing the procedure, an anesthetic product is injected around the eyes. There would be slight burning and swelling after the procedure that would subside on its own or with medication.

4. How long does an Eye Lift last?

The results of an eyelid surgery would last around 5 to 7 years in most cases.

5. Is it worth getting Eyelid Surgery?

An eyelid surgery would be worth it if you are someone unhappy with the way your eyes look. Moreover, if the lose skin around the eyes is impacting vision, the eyelid surgery should be considered. Since the procedure can last more than 5 years, it can definitely be considered to be worth. Many individuals receive a more open and wide eye after the procedure and are happy with the results.

6. How can I tighten my Eyelids without Surgery?

Without surgery, one can tighten the eyelid by doing exercise that train the eye muscles. Some home remedies such as packs made of cucumber juice can be tried to tighten the muscles naturally. Without surgery, a cosmetologist would be able to improve eyelid sagging by other procedures such as botox, dermal fillers and laser therapy.

7. What is the best age to have Eyelid Surgery?

Anybody with sagging eyes are a good candidate for the eyelid surgery. It is common among individuals who are 35 and above to have loose skin around their eyes and can be considered best age for the treatment. Results are more pronounced in this age group and can easily stay for more than 5 to 7 years.

8. Does upper Eyelid Surgery make you look younger?

Yes, an eyelid surgery can make one look younger. With an upper eyelid surgery, the skin around the eyes are tightened, making the eyes more open and youthful. This change can make one look much younger than they would with eye bags and sagging of eyelids. Though the changes after the procedure are subtle, the results give patients more happiness and confidence.

9. When do I need Eyelid Surgery?

If you are someone bothered with the bags around your eyes and droopy skin, you can consider the eyelid lift surgery. if your vision is affected by droopy skin, the procedure can work well in improving both appearance and vision.

10. What are the risks of Eyelid Surgery?

Slight pain and discomfort after the procedure is quite common and is not alarming. Bleeding and infection are the most common risks of eyelid surgery. In extremely rare cases, there can be vision loss after the surgery. it is very important to consult and get treated by a skilled and qualified surgeon to avoid any complications. It is also important that the changes are symmetrical and even in both eyes which can be done only by a trained professional.

11. Does Upper Eyelid Surgery leave scars?

Eyelid surgery does not leave behind any evident scarring after the procedure. All the changes done are along the creases of the eye and the scars are often covered in the creases making it unnoticeable.

12. Does Eyelid Surgery change appearance?

The changes after an eyelid surgery are often very subtle but are ones that create an impact. Loose skin, wrinkles and folds could give an older appearance. With an eyelid surgery, the individual would look younger.

13. How soon can you drive after Eyelid Surgery?

One could start to drive as soon as you start to feel comfortable, have no pain and are off medications. It is also important to consult with the cosmetologist on whether you are fit to drive.

14. Is Double Eyelid Surgery Safe?

Double eyelid is one of the safest cosmetic procedures. Since this is done under local anesthesia, a lot of medical risks are avoided. It is important to be sure of the skill, expertise and qualification of the care provider to avoid any risk and complication.

15. Can Hooded Eyes cause Vision Problems?

Yes, in some cases hooded eyes can cause problem with vision. This is especially true with aged individuals where the skin sagging is more. The loose folds could come in the way of sight and make it impossible to see clearly.

16. What is the Best treatment for Hooded eyelids?

A blepharoplasty / eyelid surgery would be the long term solution for droopy eyes. Patients can also try other options such as home remedies, exercises or in-office procedures such as botox, fillers, PRP and laser treatments.

17. How do you prevent scarring after Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Scarring is extremely minimal since most of the procedure is done along the crease of the eyelid. This prevents the appearance of scars. However, appropriate care must be taken for the scars to be minimal. Medications, ice packs, enough water intake and rest can help the bruising and swelling heal faster without leaving behind any scar.

18. Can Blepharoplasty change shape of eyes?

A blepharoplasty is done just to tighten up or lift the eye, it will have no impact on the shape of the eye. The eye would be in its natural and original shape, with the eyelid being firm and more youthful.

19. How long after Blepharoplasty can I wear makeup?

Eye makeup after eyelid surgery must be avoided for at the least a period of 3 weeks. Ample time for healing must be given to prevent any reaction with the eye. Eye makeup can be used once the eye completely heals, preferably after a 3-week period.