Eyelid surgery or otherwise, we have a habit of sometimes ignoring solutions to our aesthetic concerns because they don’t seem obvious or significant enough, even though they bother us. Concerns about droopy or puffy eyelids are a prime example of this trend.
But in reality, reputable aesthetic experts like Zormeier Cosmetic Surgery & Longevity Center are fully equipped to identify and accurately resolve issues affecting the upper, lower, or both eyelids with minimal downtime and discomfort.
This guide will provide an overview of how these procedures work and what to expect in all three cases (upper eyelid, lower eyelid, and double eyelid surgery), including guidance on aftercare, prep, and how to find the best eyelid surgeons.
How Upper, Lower, and Double Eyelid Procedures Differ
We’ll get the obvious out of the way first: these treatments differ in the areas that they treat.
But they aren’t simply the same exact techniques applied to different areas, since both the anatomy and the problems associated with each area can differ.
For example, lower eyelid surgeries often aim to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, where upper eyelid surgeries can target fatty deposits that create an appearance of puffiness.
Upper Blepharoplasty
This procedure involves the removal of fatty tissue and/or excess skin from the upper eyelid area.
Ptosis, the term for the above mentioned issue of drooping eyelids, is a common issue that can arise due to age, nerve dysfunction, scarring, and other causes.
Upper blepharoplasty is commonly used to address ptosis, effectively raising the resting position of the eyelid and resolving any visual impairment caused by the drooping eyelid.
In addition to restoring your full field of vision, upper eyelid surgery delivers the added benefit of creating a more fresh-faced and youthful appearance.
This procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia, and can be tailored to each patient’s preferences and presentation.
Lower Blepharoplasty
As the name implies, this form of eyelid surgery targets the lower eyelid. Common issues affecting this area include the appearance of puffiness due to fat deposits as well as fine wrinkles, under-eye bags, and sagging eyelids.
Lower blepharoplasty can use different approaches depending on each patient’s unique presentation, but most cases involve redistributing soft tissue and skin to restore a smooth, rejuvenated appearance to the area.
Like upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty usually requires local anesthesia.
Combination Blepharoplasty
If you’ve noticed one or more of the above mentioned issues affecting both the upper and lower eyelids, Zormeier Cosmetic Surgery & Longevity Center can perform a combination blepharoplasty so that you can still achieve optimal results with half the hassle.
During a combination blepharoplasty, areas of excess skin, wrinkles, and other imperfections are targeted and resolved using the precise removal and/or redistribution of soft tissue, among other techniques.
This more comprehensive approach allows for potentially more striking results, including a significantly more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
What to Expect With Blepharoplasty: Prep, Recovery, and More
While eyelid surgery is not as invasive as many reconstructive procedures, it is still a type of surgery, which means it requires careful attention to preparation, eligibility, and aftercare to ensure safe and successful outcomes.
Blepharoplasty Prep Best Practices
Like every other patient, your preparation routine for blepharoplasty may vary to a slight degree based on your unique circumstances, and is best established by directly consulting with a surgeon.
With that in mind, here is a general overview of eyelid surgery prep best practices:
- Refrain from smoking
- Stay hydrated and rested
- If applicable, maintain or change your medication routine as directed by your surgeon
- Avoid certain supplements (garlic, St. John’s wort, estrogen) as directed by your surgeon
- Avoid blood thinners
The general themes are to keep the tissue as healthy and well-preserved as possible while avoiding the use of medications that can interfere with the procedure in various ways.
Blepharoplasty Recovery Best Practices
Once again, your particular presentation and the procedure(s) used to address it can influence the recovery process, which mirrors the preparation process in several ways. In many cases, you may be advised by your surgeon to:
- Follow all incision care, medication, and activity guidelines as provided
- Avoid smoking
- Protect the treated area from sun exposure
- Stay well-hydrated and rested
- Avoid blood thinners
This is not an exhaustive list, and as always, actively following up with your surgeon to report progress and/or any complications will ensure you have a smoother recovery.
Who Is Eligible for a Blepharoplasty?
While there are a few conditions and circumstances that may render you ineligible for blepharoplasty, including severe medical conditions affecting the area, severe hypertension, and others, the majority of patients in good health should be eligible for the procedure.
It’s vital that, along with your documented medical record, you share any recent concerns or potential symptoms with your surgeon prior to the procedure, along with any questions or other concerns you have.
Choose Zormeier Cosmetic Surgery and Longevity Center for a Patient-Centered Experience
From blepharoplasty to regenerative medicine treatments and well beyond, Zormeier Cosmetic Surgery & Longevity Center offers a comprehensive suite of patient-centered procedures to deliver the life-changing results you’re looking for.
Serving the Healdsburg, CA, Ukiah, CA, Noblesville, IN, Shelbyville, IN, and Danville, IL areas, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Zormeier will partner with you from day one, keeping your needs and goals front of mind as she crafts the perfect treatment plan for you.
Ready to make a commitment to a new you? Contact us at Zormeier Cosmetic Surgery and Longevity Center for a consultation today!