Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids, refreshing the overall appearance of the face. Today, it's not just for women; more and more men are becoming interested in improving their appearance. We invite you to continue reading; we'll answer all your questions.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical intervention which is carried out with the objective of correct excess skin on the eyelidsThis surgery addresses both the upper and lower eyelids, focusing on the bags that form under the eyes and the natural drooping of the tissues surrounding the eye. All of this results in an unsightly appearance and a tired or aged appearance which displeases many people. The results of Blepharoplasty offers a fresher and more youthful image to the face.
Aesthetic and functional benefits of eyelid surgery
Blepharoplasty is a wonderful plastic surgery that simultaneously addresses both aesthetic and functional eye needs. Let's explore its many benefits:
Bag removal
The unsightly bags that form under the eyes over the years are eliminated with this procedure, which removes excess skin, muscle, and fat tissue.
It may interest you: eye bags.
Goodbye to crow's feet wrinkles
The elimination of sagging skin creates a tightening effect on the surrounding skin and the eyelids, effectively eliminating wrinkles in that area.
It may interest you: how to remove crow's feet.
Improves field of vision
In many cases, sagging upper eyelids end up covering part of the eye, reducing a person's field of vision; this is known as peripheral vision obstruction. Blepharoplasty removes excess skin and eliminates this problem.
Increased confidence
Surgery provides a more open and rested look, achieving a more youthful appearance, which directly increases self-esteem and personal confidence.
How is it the procedure?
We perform this operation under local anesthesia and sedation, with an anesthesiologist present in the operating room at all times, monitoring the patient. If the patient is nervous, they will be completely put to sleep under very mild general anesthesia. The surgery lasts approximately two hours.
On the upper eyelid, incisions are made in the natural skin folds, effectively removing excess tissue. On the lower eyelid, excess fat is removed transconjunctivally (using the "No Touch" technique), eliminating the need for incisions on the skin's surface. The experienced surgeon will make an incision in the conjunctiva to remove excess fat, leaving no visible marks on the patient. The incisions will then be closed with absorbable sutures. At the end, the patient will stay for a short period of monitoring and then be discharged with postoperative instructions.
It may interest you: blepharoplasty anesthesia.
Differences between lower and upper blepharoplasty
| Feature | Upper Blepharoplasty | Lower Blepharoplasty |
| Objective | Correct excess skin on the upper eyelids | Eliminate bags and excess skin on lower eyelids |
| incisions | In the natural crease of the eyelid | Just below the eyelashes or on the inside of the eyelid |
| Recovery | Less recovery time | It takes longer to eliminate the swelling |
| Benefits | Improves vision and rejuvenates the look | Eliminates dark circles and improves the overall appearance of the face |
How do I know if I am a candidate?
Not all of us are ideal candidates for blepharoplasty, the following must be evaluated:
- Sagging skin affects visionIn cases where the upper eyelid skin becomes too loose, obstructing peripheral vision, this type of surgery is appropriate for removing excess skin. Your health insurance will likely cover the cost.
- Condition of the eyelids: The specialized plastic surgeon will evaluate the sagging skin and bags under the eyelids, and determine the suitability of the procedure.
- Realistic expectations: It's important to discuss your expectations for the surgery during your initial medical consultation; the specialist will tell you whether or not the procedure might work for you.
- General healthThe ideal candidate should be in good general health, ensuring the surgery is not complicated. You should inform your surgeon of any pre-existing medical conditions and, if you are a smoker, stop smoking at least one month before and one month after the procedure.
What is the price of blepharoplasty?
In Spain, the price of this type of surgery is generally around between 2.500 and 5.000 euros, depending on the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the surgery, and the location of the medical center.
At what age is it recommended to do it?
There is no exact age for blepharoplasty, but signs such as bags, dark circles, and drooping eyelids begin to appear around age 35, when the skin begins to lose firmness and elasticity. However, some younger patients may opt for this procedure due to genetic factors or hereditary conditions. In any case, the specialist will decide whether it is advisable or not and which type of blepharoplasty (upper, lower, or both) is most appropriate for each case.
How many years does the effect last?
In general, the effects of surgery last 7 and 10 years between, although some patients enjoy the aesthetic benefits for longer, when they take care of themselves by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and also avoid the terrible factors that accelerate aging, such as excessive exposure to the sun and tobacco.
Before and after surgery
We recommend you take a look at all our cases of blepharoplasty before and after women.
Recovery and postoperative care
The effects of eyelid surgery are rapid and dramatic, and the recovery time isn't as long as with other procedures. Here are some tips to optimize your recovery:
Medication use
Recovery is usually painless. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe some type of painkiller, such as paracetamol or Nolotil. Anti-inflammatory drugs will also be prescribed to reduce swelling and bruising. You may experience tightness around your eyes, watery eyes, and sensitivity to light. Drops or ointments may be prescribed. All of these will disappear over time.
local cold application
It's recommended to use ice packs on your eyes for 10 minutes, every hour, the night after surgery. Or use cooling glasses that you place in the freezer and then over your eyelids, like a mask.
Lie down with your head elevated
Place a couple of pillows under your head so that it is not in the same line as the rest of your body when you are lying down.
area cleaning
Using a cotton swab soaked in serum, you should clean the eyelashes and any small secretions that accumulate around the dressings and eyelids to prevent infection and promote healing.
Other Recommendations
- Avoid wearing eye makeup for at least two weeks and protect your eyelids by wearing sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Do not rub your eyes or wear contact lenses for about two weeks.
- It is recommended not to fix or strain your vision when reading or watching television.
- Do not do strenuous exercise or lift heavy objects for several weeks, until otherwise directed by your doctor.
Does blepharoplasty leave visible scars?
Whenever we talk about surgery, we worry about scars, especially when it comes to facial surgery. In the case of blepharoplasty, an experienced plastic surgeon knows how to make incisions to minimize the visibility of scars.
In the case of the upper blepharoplasty, the incisions are made in the natural folds of the eyelid, making the scars are practically invisible. When is lower blepharoplasty, the incisions are made inside the eyelid (transconjunctival technique), which means that there will be no visible external scars.
Can it be combined with other cosmetic surgeries?
The answer is yes, Blepharoplasty is often combined with other aesthetic procedures, achieving a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.It's common for patients to opt for blepharoplasty in conjunction with a facelift, rhinoplasty, or brow lift, among others. This combination of procedures offers harmonious and balanced results, as it treats multiple areas of the face simultaneously.
Obviously, it will be a board-certified plastic surgeon who will evaluate the patient's individual needs and design a surgical plan that guarantees the safety and effectiveness of the interventions.
How risky is blepharoplasty?
Every surgical procedure carries risks, and eyelid surgery is no exception. Although rare, the following are occasionally observed:
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Blood clots
- Temporarily blurred vision
- Infection
- Irritated and dry eyes
- Obvious scars
- Difficulty closing your eyes or other problems with your eyelids
- Change in the color of the eyelid skin
- Injury to the eye muscles
When this surgery is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, the risks are minimized. Dr. Gustavo Sordo is a plastic surgeon in Madrid, aesthetic and restorative, who works with an excellent team of specialized doctors, dedicated to providing personalized and quality care. In our Plastic Surgery Clinic in Madrid We also have high medical technology, the most advanced equipment and highly trained personnel, so without a doubt, you will be in the best hands for your Blepharoplasty in MadridContact us, we'll be happy to assist you.
Conclusion
Blepharoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for those seeking to rejuvenate their gaze and improve their confidence. With results that can last 7 to 10 years, a relatively quick recovery, and the possibility of combining it with other procedures, it is a viable option for many people.
Clinic chat
