Our eyes are one of our most expressive features. They communicate our deepest emotions, from excitement and joy to anger and sorrow. They are also one of the first areas of our face to show the signs of aging. As we get older, the skin around our eyes begins to loosen and droop, and heavy bags emerge under our eyes. These changes can alter the way we look and express ourselves to others, and even interfere with our ability to see.

Cosmetic eyelid surgery, called blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both. It can give a rejuvenated appearance to the surrounding area of your eyes, making you look more rested and alert.

Dr. Patel offers premier New Jersey eyelid surgery services to help his patients look as young and vibrant as they feel. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, he has the experience and qualifications to perform eyelid surgery with the highest level of surgical skill, artistry and attention to detail. Contact New Reflections Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EYELID SURGERY?

Blepharoplasty is a relatively simple outpatient procedure that can deliver dramatic improvements. For this reason, it is among the most popular aesthetic surgeries today.

An eyelid lift can help if you have…

  • Loose or sagging skin that creates folds or disturbs the natural contour of the upper eyelid
  • Excessive upper eyelid skin that impairs vision or causes skin irritation
  • ‘Hooded’ upper eyelids
  • Excess fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the upper eyelids
  • Bags under the eyes
  • Droopiness of the lower eyelids, showing white below the iris (colored portion of the eye)
  • Excess skin and fine wrinkles of the lower eyelid
  • A tired, stressed or angry resting expression

WHAT IS AN UPPER EYELID LIFT?

Over time, the skin of our upper eyelids loses elasticity and the underlying muscles lose strength. This causes the eyelids to sag (a condition called ptosis), creating a deepening fold of skin that can hang so low it reaches the eyelashes. In the most advanced cases, the drooping skin can make it difficult to open the eyes fully and obstruct the field of vision.

Upper eyelid surgery gives the eyes a more alert and youthful appearance. For some patients, it also has the functional benefit of correcting vision impairment. The incision is placed in the existing lid crease to ensure the scar is well concealed in the natural structure of the eyelid area. Dr. Patel performs upper eyelid surgery with the utmost attention to creating a natural-looking outcome, rather than a startled, pulled look.

WHAT IS A LOWER EYELID LIFT?

Like the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids are subject to loosening skin and muscles over time. This area is also prone to developing fat deposits that create puffiness and heavy bags. Lower eyelid surgery can remove or reposition fat bulges and remove excess skin to restore a rested and refreshed facial appearance.

When fat deposits are the focus of lower eyelid surgery, the incisions can be made inside the lids so they are completely invisible. If skin excision is required, the incisions are placed beneath the lower lashes, but they are still largely undetectable once they have healed. Dr. Patel can combine this procedure with Botox, Xeomin or Dysport injections to relax fine lines (crow’s feet) or dermal filler injections in the tear troughs if additional volume is needed to correct hollowing.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR NEW JERSEY EYELID SURGERY?

The eyes are one of the most unique facial features and the eyelids are dynamic, constantly moving structures. Because of this area’s delicate and complex nature, Dr. Patel takes many considerations into account when designing a treatment plan for eyelid rejuvenation.

As with any surgical procedure, the best results will occur if you are in good general health and a non-smoker. Realistic expectations and a positive attitude also help make you a good candidate for blepharoplasty. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please let Dr. Patel know at your first appointment as it may affect the approach that is most suitable for you.

Many patients ask if there is an ideal age to have eyelid surgery. While it is often performed on people in their 40s and beyond, age is not the ultimate deciding factor. It is the condition of your skin, regardless of your age, that determines whether you may benefit from this type of surgery. Your genetic makeup and lifestyle could make you age faster or slower than the “average” age for blepharoplasty.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN AN EYELID LIFT PROCEDURE?

An eyelid lift can be performed on the upper eyelid or the lower eyelid individually, or on both eyelids during the same procedure. Any of these approaches may be done alone or in combination with other cosmetic procedures, such as a facelift or neck lift. Local anesthesia with sedation is typical for eyelid surgery, but general anesthesia may be used in some cases. Blepharoplasty usually takes no more than two hours.

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE AFTER EYELID SURGERY?

Immediately after eyelid surgery, your vision will be blurry and your eyes will feel tight and swollen. Prioritize rest and make sure to sleep on your back with your head elevated. Avoid any excessive physical activity. Discomfort is manageable with cool compresses and pain medications.

Some discoloration around the eyes is normal and typically resolves within one to two weeks. Your eyes may be dry, watery or sensitive to light. Wear dark sunglasses when outdoors and use eye drops or ointment as directed. Following Dr. Patel’s blepharoplasty recovery guidelines will help to speed the healing process and ensure you get the best results.

Most patients arrange for two weeks off work after eyelid surgery. At this point, you can start to wear makeup and contact lenses again, and are likely to feel more comfortable debuting your new appearance in public.

WHAT RESULTS CAN BE EXPECTED FROM BLEPHAROPLASTY?

Eyelid surgery can transform the entire face, creating a friendlier and more vibrant expression, a renewed sense of youthfulness and enhanced natural beauty. Blepharoplasty patients report feeling more confident, more attractive, more vibrant, energized at work and more like themselves. These results can last many years.

Over time, your skin will continue to change in response to aging and environmental factors. Dr. Patel recommends protecting the skin around your eyes with sunscreen and routine moisturizing to maintain the benefits of your eyelid surgery as long as possible.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION AND SEE WHAT EYELID SURGERY CAN DO FOR YOU

Eyelid surgery is a long-lasting way to reverse the effects of aging and restore a youthful appearance. Dr. Patel’s extensive experience and mindful approach to achieving fresh, natural rejuvenation has led to his reputation for excellence in plastic surgery in New Jersey.

To learn more about this procedure, contact New Reflections Plastic Surgery at 732-354-3792.

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