Upper blepharoplasty is designed to refresh the look of the eyes. Many people choose to get this procedure due to the signs of aging around their eyes. The signs of aging impact the eyes sooner than other parts of the face. This is because the skin is thinner and much more delicate. Upper blepharoplasty effectively addresses the signs of aging. This is done by removing the excess skin and, in some cases, the fat from the upper eyelids. The results leave you looking younger and rejuvenated. However, it does not stop the aging process entirely. Below you will find how aging affects the results of your blepharoplasty.
How Aging Affects the Results of Your Blepharoplasty
The signs of aging on the face are a natural part of getting older. It is a gradual process that continues even after upper blepharoplasty. Aging around the eyes often includes fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. It also includes the loosening of the muscles and tendons around the eyes. Blepharoplasty can easily correct these issues. However, it does not prevent future age-related changes. Aging can impact your results in several ways.
Skin Elasticity
Skin elasticity is maintained by collagen and elastin. These are two important proteins that keep your skin firm and resilient. As you age, the production of collagen and elastin reduces. This begins as early as your 20s and continues as you get older. Even after surgery, the skin can loosen due to aging. The changes are not instant, though. If you take good care of your skin and health after surgery, the results can last well over a decade.
Changes in Muscle Tone
The levator muscle supports the upper eyelid. Over time, muscles naturally weaken. Weak muscles become looser, leading to sagging. Upper blepharoplasty removes stretched excess muscle. From there, the muscle is tightened to reveal a refreshed upper eyelid area. Despite this improvement, the muscle can continue to weaken after surgery. To avoid this, you need to take good care of your skin. Avoid excessive tugging on the eyes. This is especially important for those who wear contact lenses.
Fat Redistribution
Aging affects how fat is distributed around the face. This includes the area around the eyes. Volume loss under the eyes is common and can result in a hollowed appearance. Some areas around the eyes may appear fuller. This is often in the upper eyelid area, which can make eyes look puffy and heavy. These issues can change your blepharoplasty results.
How to Ensure Your Results Last
The natural aging process does not stop after upper blepharoplasty surgery. However, there are several ways to ensure your results last. These strategies are evidence-based methods you can trust.
Follow Postoperative Instructions
One of the most important ways to protect the longevity of your results is to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions. Your ophthalmic plastic surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for yourself after surgery. Following these exactly is necessary to support optimal tissue healing. It also reduces the risk of post-surgical complications.
Protect Your Skin
Sun exposure accelerates the aging process. It affects the areas around the eyes because the skin is thin and delicate. Protecting your eyes is one of the best ways to prevent sun damage. Wear at least SPF 30 daily. Be sure to protect your eyelids, as many people often overlook the area. In addition to wearing sunscreen, wear protective eyeglasses when you go outdoors. A wide-brimmed hat is also beneficial, especially if you go outside during peak hours.
Maintain a Consistent Skin Care Routine
Skin care is essential for protecting your upper blepharoplasty results. Consistent skincare supports long-term eyelid health. Focus on the basics: gentle cleansing, a hydrating moisturizer, and SPF. In addition to these products, use products that target your specific needs. This often includes vitamin C and retinol. Both ingredients help maintain smoother and firmer skin.
Regular Maintenance Treatments
The results of blepharoplasty surgery can last well over a decade if you take good care of your health and skin. Maintenance treatments after surgery can also prolong your results. This may include injectables or skin treatments. Professional treatments after surgery offer so many benefits. Talk with your surgeon about what treatments are right for you. They can customize your post-surgery treatment plan to keep your skin refreshed and rejuvenated.
Is Upper Blepharoplasty Right for Me?
Upper blepharoplasty is a highly effective surgery. It addresses the signs of aging around the eyes. This can leave you looking years younger. Patients also report increased self-confidence after surgery, driven by the results. Determining if upper blepharoplasty is right for you is a personal decision. It depends on your aesthetic goals and whether you are a good candidate. The first step in determining if the surgery is right for you is scheduling a consultation with an experienced ophthalmic plastic surgeon.
At the consultation, the surgeon will determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations. It is also important to be a non-smoker. If you do smoke, share this information with your surgeon right away. You will need to stop smoking before and after surgery. However, continuing to smoke will inevitably impact your results. It is best to quit smoking entirely if you are investing in upper blepharoplasty.
Patients who are good candidates often show signs of aging around the eyes. This includes fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Many people opt for surgery to address cosmetic concerns. However, the surgery can also improve functional issues caused by sagging upper eyelids. Both aesthetic and functional issues caused by aging around the eyes can be improved with surgery.
Top Ophthalmic Plastic Surgeon
Your eyes are often the first thing people notice when they see you. If you are unhappy with the signs of aging around your eyes, contact the team at Infocus Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!