Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a type of facial rejuvenation that focuses on improving the appearance of your eyelids. One of the best ways to understand what this procedure can achieve is by looking at eye lifts before and after photos.
This article uses before and after photos to illustrate what eyelid surgery can do.
Understanding Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery or an eye lift, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the eyelids. There are two main types:
Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty
This addresses sagging skin and excess fat in the upper eyelids. If the excess skin is impairing your vision, the surgery can improve it. The surgeon typically makes any cuts in the natural crease of the upper eyelid.
Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty
This targets bags and wrinkles under the eyes. The surgeon may remove or reposition fat. They may make the incision inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival) or just below the lash line.
Functional vs. Cosmetic Blepharoplasty
When blepharoplasty improves vision, it’s considered functional. When it’s done to improve appearance, it’s cosmetic.
What Before & After Photos Reveal: Common Improvements
Before-and-after photos of blepharoplasty patients can give you a good idea of the kinds of improvements you can expect.
Reduced Under-Eye Bags and Puffiness
Often, the “before” photos show bags and puffiness under the eyes. The “after” photos tend to show a much smoother, more youthful contour.
Correction of Drooping Upper Eyelids
In many cases, the upper eyelids sag so much that they obstruct vision. An eye lift can create a more open, alert look.
Reduced Wrinkling Around the Eyes
Blepharoplasty can smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. For even better results, your surgeon may recommend treatments like CO2 laser resurfacing to further improve the texture of the skin.
A More Rested and Rejuvenated Appearance
Overall, blepharoplasty can create a refreshed and more youthful look. The eyes appear brighter and more alert, and the patient looks more rested.
What affects the results of blepharoplasty?
If you’re looking at eye lift before and after pictures, it’s important to remember that results vary from person to person. A number of factors influence outcomes:
- Anatomy: Everyone’s facial structure and skin elasticity are different.
- Surgical technique: Surgeons use different techniques, some of which involve fat grafting.
- Combination with other procedures: Blepharoplasty is often done with other procedures like deep plane facelifts, neck lifts, brow lifts, and lip lifts.
- Healing: Everyone heals at their own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age for an eyelid lift?
There’s no single “best” age for an eyelid lift. It really depends on the individual and their specific concerns. Most patients are in their 40s or older, but some younger individuals may consider it due to genetic factors or early signs of aging around the eyes. It’s all about when you feel like your eyelids are impacting your vision or appearance.
Can you see after an eye lift?
Yes, you can absolutely see after an eye lift! While your vision might be a little blurry or temporarily affected by swelling and ointment in the immediate recovery period, the procedure itself doesn’t impair your ability to see. In fact, in some cases where drooping eyelids were obstructing vision, an eyelid lift can actually improve your sight.
How much does an eye lift cost?
The cost of an eyelid lift can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the geographic location, and the extent of the procedure. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 or more. This typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia costs, and facility fees.
How long does an eye lift last?
The results of an eyelid lift are generally long-lasting, but not necessarily permanent. For upper eyelid lifts, the effects can often last for 5-7 years, or even longer. Lower eyelid lifts tend to be more permanent, but aging continues, so some changes may occur over time. Lifestyle factors, like sun exposure and smoking, can also impact the longevity of your results.
In Summary
Blepharoplasty can dramatically improve the appearance of your eyes, making you look more youthful and refreshed.
Before and after photos are a great way to get a sense of how eyelid surgery might benefit you.
But the best way to find out if blepharoplasty is right for you is to talk with a board-certified plastic surgeon.