A blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift, is not only used for cosmetic concerns. Droopy upper eyelids can also block the eyes, impairing a patient’s peripheral vision. Whether you are experiencing this functional issue or are tired of looking tired (or both), a blepharoplasty may help.
Establishing Your Treatment Goals
The first step of any blepharoplasty treatment plan is to speak with a highly trained, board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon like Dr. Charles Anthony II. During your initial consultation at Anthony Aesthetics, he will perform a thorough examination of your eyelids and ask important questions about your medical history as well as your functional and cosmetic objectives. If approved for eyelid surgery, Dr. Anthony will describe the process in detail and which cosmetic and medical benefits would apply to you.
What Causes Droopy Upper Eyelids?
Upper eyelid sagging is caused by loose, excess skin or a weak levator muscle. Both can negatively impact a patient’s aesthetic appearance and ability to see.
Skin Laxity
Skin loses its elasticity over time as the body gradually slows down on collagen and elastin production. Heredity plays a significant role, but sun damage and smoking often accelerate the process. Skin laxity is not limited to the eyelids; it can also occur on the brow and other parts of the face.
If loose skin is the cause of your droopy upper eyelids, Dr. Anthony may decide to perform an upper blepharoplasty. Here, an incision is made along the natural crease between the eyelid and the brow so that excess skin can be removed.
Ptosis
If a weak levator muscle is the culprit, the condition is called ptosis. Aging can be a factor, but not always. An injury or disease can also result in ptosis. Some patients are even born with this condition.
Ptosis repair surgery is similar to an upper blepharoplasty. However, Dr. Anthony will also tighten the muscle to improve its location and enhance the upper eyelid’s functionality.
What Causes “Bags Under The Eyes”?
This symptom typically does not lead to functional concerns but can still be a serious cosmetic complaint for patients. Bulges, or “bags,” under the eyes are caused by fat herniation (misplacement) and/or skin laxity. Both can be addressed during lower blepharoplasty surgery.
Do Blepharoplasties Need to Be Repeated?
Needing a follow-up treatment in the future will depend on your aesthetic goals and the rate of skin aging. Lower blepharoplasties rarely need to be repeated unless there is a particular cosmetic need. An additional upper eyelid lift is sometimes necessary years later if the skin or muscle becomes loose again from the aging process and resumes blocking the field of vision.
Contact Us For More Details
With over a decade of facial plastic surgery experience, Dr. Anthony will be happy to diagnose the cause of your functional and/or cosmetic eyelid symptoms. To get started, schedule a consultation at Anthony Aesthetics in St. Petersburg, Florida, today!
