The skin of our eyelids and the surrounding areas is some of the thinnest on the entire body, so it is also some of the first to show the effects of sun damage, personal habits such as smoking, and the natural slackening of tissues that comes with aging. Being here in sunny coastal South Carolina doesn’t help — we all spend our fair share of time outdoors, and this ages our eyelids.
But you don’t have to live with droopy eyelids, under eye bags, and puffy skin. Dr. Smith has extensive experience performing blepharoplasty for his patients, taking a decade or more off the age of their eyes and the overall face.
You’re not alone
Every year in cosmetic surgery statistics, blepharoplasty is one of the most popular procedures because its results are dramatic, yet at the same time subtle. Unlike more dramatic procedures such as breast augmentation or a facelift, after you’ve had eyelid surgery most people won’t know you’ve had surgery, only that your appearance somehow seems younger and refreshed.
Is eyelid surgery right for me?
Eyelid surgery is one procedure that is popular with both women and men. Other than liposuction, it’s one of the few cosmetic surgeries that can claim that. Why? Drooping eyelids, wrinkles, and puffy bags under your eyes show no favoritism by sex — they make everyone look much older. In fact, each year more and more men are opting to have blepharoplasty to maintain a younger appearance when competing in the workplace.
Eyelid surgery
Eyelid surgery can be performed on both eyelids or singly, depending on your personal condition. Because of this, surgery can run anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours.
Blepharoplasty is a delicate surgery that involves small incisions. In upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Smith makes a small incision in the natural crease of the eyelid. This conceals any scarring. He then tightens the muscle tissue, repositions the fat, and removes excess skin. Special attention is paid to the fat because removing too much fat can leave a hollowed-out appearance. It can create a gaunt impression, and that’s no good.
In the lower eyelid, the incision is usually made just below the lower eyelash. An alternative location can make the incision inside the lower lid, removing any visible scarring. Excess skin is removed to lessen wrinkles, bags, and general puffiness in this area.
Recovery
Another great thing about eyelid surgery with Dr. Smith is that it doesn’t involve a difficult recovery. After the procedure, your eyelids will likely be covered with light gauze. You will be given an eye lubricant and a cold compress. Bruising and swelling is minor, particularly if you are diligent with the compress. After a week, your stitches are removed and your eyelids generally will look normal, only younger!
Eyelid surgery is a really effective, satisfying way to turn back the clock on your aging eyes. Most people feel that eyelid surgery takes a decade off of your facial age.
Coming into the cooler months, this is a good time to have Dr. Smith rejuvenate your eyes. Call us at (843) 823-6913 to schedule a consultation for blepharoplasty.
