“When you no longer look as young as you feel…”
The eye is the mirror of the soul. It projects happiness, ecstasy, sorrow, dejection, fear, in fact all forms of emotion.
If the eyes are marred by hooded upper or puffy lower lids, an expression of constant tiredness is given to the face and the sparkle of youth is gone.
What is it?
It is one of the least invasive cosmetic procedures. A relatively simple, safe and long lasting technique to reduce eye bags (fat deposits) under the eyes or over the eyelids, excessive wrinkles and loose skin.
Before (left) and after (right).
What are the alternatives?
None, but to accept your looks as they are.
What happens?
There are essentially two methods of blepharoplasty that are carried out by our (FRCS) Consultant Cosmetic Surgeons.
Traditional Blepharoplasty
Lower Lid – An incision is made very close to and just under the lash line, sagging skin and loose muscle is excised along with any excess fat. The surgeon then tightens, reshapes and sutures the skin. The resulting “hairline incision” heals very quickly and tends to fade within weeks.
Upper Lid – A very similar procedure to the lower lid, however, the incision follows the natural contour of the eyelid and is made in the natural fold of the lid, the resulting “hairline incision” becomes the eyelid’s new skin crease.
Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty
A state of the art technique which is becoming increasingly popular. Used to treat the lower eye bags on patients with good skin elasticity, the incision is made through the conjunctiva (inside the lining of the lower lid) therefore leaving no visible scar with little chance of the “pulling down” of the lower lid and without changing the natural shape and contour of the eyes.
How long should it last?
The procedure can “turn back the clock” but it cannot “stop it ticking”. Your natural ageing process will continue normally, however, the more alert and youthful look should last for years.
Will I be asleep?
Yes, twilight sleep. You will be sedated heavily with medication throughout the procedure. Your Consultant Anaesthetist is present throughout surgery to ensure that you are comfortable and pain free. You will probably have no recollection of the procedure. General anaesthesia can also sometimes be used, preferences will be discussed during your consultation with your Consultant Cosmetic Surgeon.
Is there any discomfort?
Some swelling, tenderness and discomfort may be experienced for a few days which will be controlled with medication if necessary.
How long does it take?
The procedure takes between one to two hours and you can usually return home on the day after treatment, returning approximately one week later for your first post-operative appointment.
Can I drive myself home?
No – because of the medications used during surgery, you cannot drive for 24 hours.
What will I look like immediately? When will I look good?
Normal healing takes approximately one week and any further discoloration or swelling subsides very quickly so that within two to four weeks you should be completely back to your new self.
When can I wear make-up?
A week after the procedure, when most of the swelling has subsided, you may apply eye make-up. Of course, you may wear lipstick right away. Contact lenses can be worn after two weeks. After eyelid surgery, a number of our female patients decide on a “make-over” and a new hairstyle to enhance their change in looks.
How much will it cost?
Your best investment is an individual consultation with a surgeon you trust. Cosmetic Surgery is usually a life-time investment.Our patients are treated as individuals, and costs do vary from person to person dependant on their individual needs. However, the total cost of your procedure will be quoted at the consultation, fully inclusive with no hidden extras.
I have negotiated some remarkable prices in UK hospitals for those patients who are able to travel, and who are flexible about dates.
Should I have eyelid surgery?
Only you can answer that question. Be sure you are doing it for the right reasons: your own sense of self confidence and self esteem. No matter what anyone else thinks, if you are happy with your appearance there is no reason to have it changed. So before making that decision, attend a consultation, get the facts. Be realistic in your expectations and make an educated decision that is right for you.