As we age, the skin around our eyes begins to lose its elasticity, leading to sagging and droopy eyelids. Whether it’s excess skin on the upper eyelids that can obstruct vision or puffiness and bags under the eyes, these changes can make us look older, tired, or even affect our daily function.
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, offers a solution to rejuvenate the eyes. But it’s important to understand that there are different types of eyelid surgery, each of which addresses specific concerns. Below, we’ll discuss the various options available to help you choose the best treatment for your needs.
The first thing you need to know is that there are two main types of double eyelid surgery: Upper eyelid surgery and lower eyelid surgery.
Upper Blepharoplasty (Upper Eyelid Surgery)
Upper blepharoplasty, also known as upper eyelid surgery, is designed to correct drooping skin or fatty deposits in the upper eyelids. It can create a more youthful, refreshed appearance by removing excess skin that may be obstructing vision or adding a tired look.
The procedure involves tiny incisions along the eyelid’s natural crease, making scars nearly invisible. Upper blepharoplasty can also address puffiness, excess skin, and bags that develop as we age, restoring the eyelid area’s shape and contour.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Upper Blepharoplasty?
Candidates for upper blepharoplasty are typically individuals with sagging skin or excess fat that causes a tired or heavy-eyed look. Those who are experiencing obstruction of their field of vision due to drooping eyelids also benefit.
If you are in good health, have realistic expectations, and are concerned about the appearance of your upper eyelids, an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Ashley Steinberg can help you determine if upper eyelid surgery is right for you.
Lower Blepharoplasty (Lower Eyelid Surgery)
Lower blepharoplasty targets the lower eyelids to address puffiness, sagging skin, or the formation of bags under the eyes. It can restore a smoother, youthful appearance to the area.
The procedure typically involves small incisions made just below the lower lash line or inside the eyelid, which helps to reduce visible scarring. This surgery is often sought by individuals who notice dark circles or bulging fatty deposits in their lower eyelids as they age.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Lower Blepharoplasty?
If you have sagging skin or puffiness beneath the eyes, lower blepharoplasty could be an effective solution. Candidates for this procedure are generally in good health, with no severe eye conditions.
If you are bothered by under-eye bags or excess skin that gives you a tired appearance, consult a board-plastic surgeon like Dr. Ashley Steinberg to determine if lower eyelid surgery can improve your appearance.
Bilateral Blepharoplasty (Combined Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery)
Bilateral blepharoplasty is a combined procedure that addresses both the upper and lower eyelids in one surgery. This approach is ideal for patients who wish to correct aging signs in both eyelid areas.
By performing both upper and lower eyelid surgeries together, bilateral blepharoplasty reduces recovery time and provides comprehensive results. This procedure can dramatically improve the overall appearance of the eyes, giving the face a more balanced and youthful look.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Bilateral Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is best for individuals who have concerns about both their upper and lower eyelids. If you have excess skin, puffiness, or drooping in both areas, combining the surgeries can help you achieve the desired results with less downtime.
A consultation with a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ashley Steinberg can help determine if this combined procedure suits your specific needs.
Asian Blepharoplasty
There is also a surgery called Asian blepharoplasty or Asian eyelid surgery. This is a procedure that adds the appearance of an upper eyelid crease to patients who don’t naturally have a noticeable one. Many patients are of Asian background, though anyone can undergo a cosmetic eyelid surgery to make a more defined upper eyelid.
Non-Surgical Blepharoplasty Options
Finally, if you’re not ready for surgery, there are non-surgical options to improve the appearance of the eyes. Botox injections are commonly used to lift the upper eyelid, while dermal fillers can restore volume and smooth the lower eyelids.
Which Type of Eyelid Surgery Is Best for Me?
Determining which type of eyelid surgery is right for you depends on your unique goals and concerns. In order to qualify for either, you must, of course, have issues with either your upper or lower eyelids, or both. Upper blepharoplasty is ideal for addressing excess skin on the upper eyelids, while lower blepharoplasty focuses on undereye puffiness or sagging.
FAQs: Different Types of Double Eyelid Surgery
Can eyelid surgery correct vision issues?
Yes, upper eyelid surgery can improve vision if sagging skin is obstructing your line of sight. By removing excess skin and fat, the procedure can restore peripheral vision for those affected by heavy eyelids.
How long does the recovery take after eyelid surgery?
The recovery time after eyelid surgery typically ranges from 7 to 10 days, depending on the extent of the surgery. You will need to slowly reincorporate your regular daily activities after this point.
Contact Us Today to Book a Consultation
Have more questions about the different types of eyelid surgery available? We’re here to help.
Board-certified blepharoplasty surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg can teach you more about the procedure itself, the recovery experience, blepharoplasty scars, and how to qualify for eyelid surgery. Call today to schedule a consultation appointment.