Eyelid Lift
in Grand Rapids, MI
Blepharoplasty, more commonly known as an eyelid lift, is a type of eyelid surgery that removes excess skin, muscle and fat from the eyelids. This procedure can help improve the appearance of sagging or drooping eyelids, a condition called ptosis, as well as eliminate under eye bags and wrinkles. When drooping or sagging is extreme, blepharoplasty can help patients see better by clearing the skin that obstructs their sight.
Why Consider an Eyelid Lift
If you’re after a youthful, more refreshed look, an eyelift can be a great option. As we age, the skin around our eyes can become lax and start to sag. Though a healthy diet and exercise can play a role in our overall health and the aging process, we can’t really exercise the eye area to help keep it toned and tightened. Genetics can also impact the way our eyes look. And while there are non-surgical solutions for the eye area, including wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers, an eyelid lift delivers longer-lasting and more dramatic results.
What to Expect with an Eyelid Lift
An eyelid lift starts with anesthesia, which is given either locally or via an IV. Next incisions will be made where appropriate and so they’re concealed by the natural contours of the eye. Once the surgeon completes the reshaping of the eye, the incisions are closed and healing can begin!
Types of Eyelid Lifts
There are two types of blepharoplasty: upper and lower. A double eyelid lift is a combination of both.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Upper lid blepharoplasty involves removing excess skin, fat, and muscle in the upper eyelid area in order to smooth and lift the upper eyelid skin. This creates a more youthful and alert appearance, and in some cases improves the eyesight by correcting obstructive sagging eyelids.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
The procedure for lower lid blepharoplasty consists of reshaping the lower eyelid, removing excess fat and skin that make up the “bags” or the tired, sagging appearance under the eyes. This is done either using a transconjunctival or transcutaneous method.
Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty– This is ideal for patients who have large bags under their eyes and little or no wrinkling. In a transconjunctival blepharoplasty, the surgeon, working through a small incision inside the lower lash line, repositions fat deposits higher in the eye socket to eliminate bags and excessive puffiness in the area, leaving the patient with a younger, more vital appearance.
Transcutaneous Blepharoplasty– In a transcutaneous blepharoplasty, working through a small incision below the lower lash line, the surgeon tightens the lower eyelid and the skin covering it, leaving the patient looking alert and rejuvenated. Excess fat is also removed as needed. It is ideal for patients who have loose, sagging skin around the eyelids that can be tightened.
Eyelid Lift Recovery
After surgery, your eyes may be loosely covered with gauze and you’ll likely be given lubricating ointment and a cold compress. Initially, bruising, swelling, irritation and dry eyes are common and can be treated with OTC and prescription medication alongside the ointment and cold compresses. Wearing dark tinted sunglasses is important until you’re fully healed, which can take a few months. Most of our patients feel comfortable going out in public 10-14 days after surgery. Additional post-op instructions will be provided before you leave and the better you follow them, the more successfully you’ll heal and have good results.
Ideal Candidate for an Eyelid Lift
If you’re concerned about the appearance of your eyes, are in good overall health and don’t smoke, you’re a good candidate for an eyelid lift. Schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you achieve your desired results.
Eyelid Lift in Grand Rapids, MI | Centre for Plastic Surgery
Before & After
How Much Does Blepharoplasty Cost?
Every eyelid surgery we do is a little different, so the cost for an eyelid lift can vary. That being said, our price estimator can give you an idea by showing what an average patient pays.
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Blepharoplasty
Is an eyelid lift safe?
Eyelid plastic surgery, including an eyelid lift, is safe when candidates are healthy and the surgery is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon.
What are the risks of an eyelid lift?
Before undergoing surgery, it’s important to understand the risks. While uncommon, an eyelid lift has the following associated risks:
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Infection
- Bleeding from the incisions
- Difficulty closing your eyes
- Dry eyes
- Sensitivity to sun or bright light
- Pain, which could be persistent
- Temporary or permanent changes to your eyes, including outward rolling of the lower eyelid (known as Ectropian) or pulling down of the lower eyelid (lid lag)
- Temporary and permanent changes to your vision, including a very minimal chance of blindness
- Need for corrective surgery
asal septum and requires corrective surgery; Poor healing; Skin discoloration, swelling and scarring. We will discuss the likelihood and details of all possible risks during your surgical journey at our centre.
How long does an eyelid lift last?
It depends on if you did upper or lower eyelid surgery. Upper eyelid surgery typically lasts for 5-7 years. Lower eyelid surgery can last last for a lifetime. Wearing sunscreen and shielding your eyes from the sun with sunglasses and hats can help your eyelid lift last as long as possible.
How soon will I see results from an eyelid lift?
When the initial bruising and swelling goes away after 10-14 days, you’ll start to see a noticeable difference. After a month, the changes will become more apparent. And by three months an eyelid lift is typically fully healed, though the scars will likely continue to fad.
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