Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of your eyes. It can make you look more youthful and refreshed. Many people know the two main types of blepharoplasty: upper blepharoplasty and lower blepharoplasty. But there are also procedures like Asian Eyelid Procedure, aka double eyelid surgery, available at The MedSpa at Burlington Plastic Surgery. Dr. Jessica Shih and her expert team are highly skilled in all these procedures.
Eyelid Surgery at a Glance
Procedure Length
Typical Recovery
4 weeks to resume exercise/strenuous activities
Anesthesia
Variations
Lower Blepharoplasty
Asian Eyelid Surgery
What Is Upper Blepharoplasty?
The excess skin and fat can cause a person’s eyes to look tired, aged, or swollen. The goal of this surgery, therefore, is to improve the appearance of the eyes and make them look more youthful by removing these things. During treatment, your surgeon will make an incision in the natural crease of your eyelid. Through this incision, your surgeon will remove any excess fat and skin for a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
What Is Lower Blepharoplasty?
Lower blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that seeks to improve the appearance of the lower eyelids by removing excess fat and drooping, sagging skin from the lower eyelids. During treatment, your surgeon will make small incisions below the lashes of your lower eyelids to access the underlying structures. Through these incisions, your surgeon will remove or re-distribute fat and remove excess skin before closing the incisions with fine sutures.
What Is an Asian Eyelid Procedure?
One type of blepharoplasty that is becoming increasingly popular is the Asian eyelid procedure, also known as double eyelid surgery. This is a blepharoplasty that is specifically tailored for those who have what is known as single eyelids without a visible supratarsal crease. This surgery is the most common type of aesthetic surgery in East Asia, and involves creating visible creases in the eyelids, which are commonly known as “double eyelids”. It commonly creates a more almond-shaped, rounder eye.
This surgery is performed for both medical and aesthetic reasons. It’s excellent for people whose eyelids are interfering with their vision. It is also requested by people who have found that one eyelid is double while the other is single, and they would like to achieve a balanced, even look. Permanent creases also help to make the eyes look wider, more open, and more awake. Patients also appreciate that with a well-defined upper eyelid crease, eye makeup becomes easier to apply.
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How Does the Process Work?
An Initial Consultation
During a blepharoplasty consultation, Dr. Jessica Shih will assess your medical history and current health condition. She will also examine your eyes and eyelids to determine if they are suitable for the surgery. Once the consultation is complete, she will provide you with instructions on how to prepare for the surgery.
How To Prepare
There are a few things that patients can do to prepare for this treatment. They will need to stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery as this can increase the risk of complications. They should also avoid taking any medications or supplements that can thin the blood or cause excessive bleeding. Every person’s pre-operative instructions will vary slightly depending on their lifestyle, so it is important they listen to Dr. Jessica Shih and her team carefully.
The Surgery
Prior to the surgery, you will discuss the type of anesthesia required for your procedure with the surgeon. This may include general or local anesthesia depending on the patient and which procedures are being performed. On the day of surgery, once you have the appropriate anesthesia, your surgeon will make small incisions in the natural creases of your eyelids, the exact location depending on the specific type of surgery you are getting. Through these incisions, excess skin and fat will be removed and the underlying muscles may be tightened. The incisions will then be closed with sutures.
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What Is the Recovery Period Like?
The recovery from these procedures is typically fairly quick and easy and works similarly for all of them. You will need a small amount of time off work and your normal routine to let your body heal. You can quickly eliminate the appearance of bruising and swelling around the eyes after your surgery by keeping your head elevated for the first few days and by avoiding any strenuous activity during your recovery period. Most people can return to their normal activities within a week or two of surgery.
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What Are the Benefits of These Treatments?
For many people, the biggest benefit is simply that they feel better about the way they look. This can boost confidence and self-esteem, and make a person feel more comfortable in social situations. Improved appearance can also lead to new opportunities, both professionally and personally.
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Who Is a Good Candidate for This Treatment?
If you are struggling with drooping skin under the eyes, puffy eye bags, or are interested in achieving a double eyelid look, this treatment may be right for you.
During your consultation, your surgeon will assess the structure of your eyelids and the surrounding tissues to make sure your eyes are suitable to be operated on. They will also ask about your medical history and any medications you are currently taking. You should be in good health and have realistic expectations for the results of the surgery. Some conditions, plus things like pregnancy, will, unfortunately, render a person ineligible for treatment.
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Bottom Line
Eyelid surgery is a great way to improve the appearance of your eyes and help you feel more confident. Good candidates for this procedure are generally in good health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of surgery. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Shih!