The eyes are one of the most expressive features of the face, often conveying a wide range of emotions. Unfortunately, that means if your eyes look tired, droopy, or even angry, they may be communicating a different message than you intend.
As we age, it’s only natural to lose some of the healthy fat around the eyes that add youthful volume to the face. Unfortunately, these unflattering effects of aging can add years to the face, even if you still feel young and vibrant. At Illume Cosmetic Surgery and MedSpa, our patients often complain about having tired, puffy eyes and drooping or saggy eyelid skin. We offer Eyelift surgery to help patients in Milwaukee and Waukesha reduce under-eye puffiness, soften wrinkles, and lift drooping lids in a way that looks natural and more flattering.
What is an Eyelift (Blepharoplasty)?
An eyelift, also known as a blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure used to reduce wrinkles and sagging skin around the eyes and restore a more youthful appearance. We offer eyelift surgery for the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. During the procedure, excess fat, muscle, and skin is removed from the upper and lower eyelids. The resulting scar is well hidden within the crease of the upper eyelids or just below the lash line for the lower eyelids.
What Issues Can an Eyelift Treat?
The primary goal of eyelift surgery is to address age-related issues, such as drooping or puffy eyelids, to reveal a naturally refreshed look. An eyelift can also help improve vision in patients who have excessive upper lid skin and weak muscles. In general, a blepharoplasty can improve:
- Sagging or droopy upper eyelids
- Drooping lower eyelids that reveal white below the iris
- Excess skin on the upper eyelids that interferes with vision
- Excess skin and fine lines on the lower eyelids
- Bags or puffiness under the eyes
- Tired appearance around the eyes
Keep in mind that eyelift surgery is limited to treating the area around the eyes. Other procedures will be required to improve different areas of the face. For example, brow lifts are commonly performed with an eye lift to help raise the eyebrows and achieve more transformative results.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for an Eyelift?
Most people who seek out eyelift surgery are looking for an anti-aging treatment. Sagging skin around your eyes is a natural part of the aging process, but it can also make you look younger than you feel. That said, many people in their 20s and 30s may also benefit from a blepharoplasty if they have significant bags or excess skin under their eyes.
In some cases, an eye lift goes beyond cosmetic concerns. Many patients undergo this procedure because their vision has become affected by sagging skin on the upper eyelids. In this way, eye lift surgery is both cosmetic and functional. To reduce the risk of complications, ideal candidates for any surgery should also be non-smokers and free of any chronic illnesses that could affect recovery.
What’s the Recovery Process Like?
After an eyelift, most patients return to work within a few days. However, it will take at least 2-3 weeks for you to heal completely. Some common and completely normal side effects include swelling, bruising, blurred vision, mild to moderate pain, and sensitivity to light. Luckily, these symptoms are only temporary and typically resolve themselves within a few days. Still, there are many things you can do to protect your eyes and promote a healthy recovery.
One helpful tip after eyelift surgery is to avoid rubbing your eyes and use cold compresses to minimize any pain and swelling. Wearing sunglasses when you leave your house will also help with light sensitivity and protect your healing incisions. Exercise and other strenuous activities should also be avoided for at least a week after surgery.
What are the Risks of Eyelift Surgery?
Thousands of people undergo eyelift surgery every year and don’t experience significant complications. However, all surgeries carry some risks, most notably bleeding, bruising, swelling, and infection. Other possible risks associated with eyelift surgery include:
- Pain, which may persist
- Unfavorable scarring
- Sensitivity to light
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Skin discoloration
- Difficulty closing the eyes
- Injury to the eye muscles
- Temporary vision problems or, in very rare cases, blindness
- Anesthesia-related risks, including adverse reactions and blood clots
The best way to minimize your risks of surgery is to carefully follow your surgeon’s pre-and post-op instructions and be honest about any existing medical conditions.
Eye Lift Surgery at Illume Cosmetic Surgery and MedSpa
As one of the Milwaukee area’s leading cosmetic and plastic surgery centers, Illume Cosmetic Surgery and MedSpa is home to nationally recognized board-certified plastic surgeons who are committed to providing the highest standard of care. If you’re interested in eyelift surgery, contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
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