Droopy eyelids, also known as eyelid ptosis, is a condition that causes the skin of the eyelid to sag and look droopy. It's a problem that can start to appear with advancing age or sudden weight fluctuations, and can have a strong aesthetic and functional impact on a person's life.
The good news is that it can be corrected: the blepharoplasty is the plastic surgery that solves this problem, with really remarkable results, as it allows you to rejuvenate your eyes and face.
If you have droopy eyelids or know someone who suffers from this condition, then this article is for you.
What is a droopy eyelid?
Droopy eyelids, also known as eyelid ptosis, is a condition in which the skin of the upper eyelid droops more than normal. This condition can affect one or both eyes and can vary in degree from mild to severe. In the most severe cases, it can even limit the field of vision.
The origin of the droopy eyelid may be the natural ageing process, sudden weight fluctuations, injuries, traumas and neuromuscular and neurological diseases. It can also be congenital, due to inadequate development of the eyelid muscles.
When it is caused by ageing, which is one of the most common situations, there is a weakening of the muscles responsible for lifting the eyelid.
A droopy eyelid is a condition that can have a number of impacts, not only aesthetic but also functional:
- aesthetically, Ptosis makes the person look more tired and aged, affecting the appearance of the face.
- at a functional level, In severe cases, this condition can require more effort to keep the eyes open and cause eye fatigue. As already mentioned, in the most severe degrees of papebral ptosis, it can even cover the eyes, limiting the field of vision.
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What is blepharoplasty and how can it help correct droopy eyelids?
Blepharoplasty is plastic surgery that aims to correct drooping eyelids by removing excess skin and, where necessary, pockets of fat that have accumulated on the eyelids.
This aesthetic procedure can be carried out on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both, depending on the patient's needs.
Due to its high demand, blepharoplasty ranks in the Top 5 of the most performed plastic surgeries worldwide in 2022, according to figures from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
How is it realised?
At LMR, blepharoplasty is performed using only local anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation. Due to its relative simplicity, the procedure lasts around an hour.
Despite being simple, there are different types and techniques of blepharoplasty and each case must be treated individually, in a totally personalised way.
In the case of upper blepharoplasty, In the upper eyelids, an incision is made along the natural line of the eyelid, excess skin is removed and fat, if any, is removed.
In the case of lower blepharoplasty, The incision can be made along the lash line or through the conjunctiva (inner part of the eyelid), when the approach is made “inside the eye”. In the latter case, fat pockets are eliminated or redistributed. However, when there is excess skin to be removed, the scar has to be along the lash line.
Eyelid surgery: main benefits
The main aim of blepharoplasty is to improve the appearance of the eyelids, making the gaze more open and rejuvenated.
Since the eyes make all the difference to the appearance and aesthetics of the face - it's no coincidence that it's said that the eyes are the mirror of the soul - the countless benefits of eyelid plastic surgery don't stop there.
By eliminating sagging skin and reducing fat bags around the eyes, the patient gets a more vibrant look.
When the eyelids are very droopy and cover part of the eye, blepharoplasty also improves the field of vision.
The increase in confidence and self-esteem is undeniable in people who have undergone this procedure, as it plays an essential role in rejuvenating the face.
For example, many patients with drooping eyelids feel dissatisfied because they appear much older than they really are, precisely because of this condition. Blepharoplasty can solve this problem, restoring confidence and “taking off” a few years.
How is recovery?
Most blepharoplasty patients resume their normal routine and activities between one and two weeks after surgery.
You should, however, avoid heavy physical exertion and sun exposure for a few more days.
It is normal to have swelling and bruising around the eyes after the procedure, but the discomfort is controlled with medication prescribed by the plastic surgeon.
To reduce swelling, ice should be applied and constantly renewed during the first 72 hours after the operation.
The doctor's instructions on post-operative care must be followed to the letter to ensure optimal healing and results.
Frequently asked questions
Are the scars visible?
Blepharoplasty scars are hidden, whether in the line or fold of the upper eyelid - in which case the scars are only visible when the eyes are closed - the lash line or the conjunctiva (inner part of the eyelid).
Does Blepharoplasty jeopardise vision?
Vision is not at all jeopardised by blepharoplasty surgery. Only the contours of the eyes are manipulated and this is done externally, without interfering with the eyeball or its structures. Temporarily, blurred vision and increased tear production may occur. In fact, blepharoplasty can actually improve vision by removing the tissue that was interfering with its normal functioning.
From what age can this surgery be performed?
There is no right age to have blepharoplasty. Although it is most often performed on people over the age of 45, there is no obstacle to having it done earlier if you suffer from droopy eyelids.
Is recovery from blepharoplasty painful?
The post-operative period for blepharoplasty is not usually painful. For this reason, many patients only take painkillers the day after surgery. However, pain sensitivity and recovery depend on the individual.
Are the results definitive?
Blepharoplasty guarantees long-lasting results and, in the vast majority of situations, the removal of fat and excess skin is performed only once in a lifetime.
Despite this, definitive results cannot be guaranteed, as surgery does not halt the natural ageing process.
If you have droopy eyelids, or know someone who suffers from this condition, it's important to look into medical advice to determine the appropriate treatment, The aim is to improve vision and the aesthetic appearance of the eyes, restoring the patient's quality of life and well-being.
You should therefore book an evaluation consultation to assess candidacy for blepharoplasty, discuss expectations and understand the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. A personalised treatment plan is essential to achieve satisfactory results.
