Facial Surgery: Eye Lift (Blipharoplasty)

Definition: The removal of skin and fat from the upper eyelid and removal of fat and laser resurfacing of the lower eyelid to remove fine lines and wrinkles.

Age: 30 plus.

Most people benefit from eyelid surgery from the middle to late thirties and beyond. However some people have family traits of excess skin in the upper eyelids and bags under the eyes. They will often benefit from surgery in their early 30's or even in their 20's.

Surgical technique: Eye-lifting removes fat and extra skin from the upper eyelids. The corrugator
muscle, which causes frown lines, can be removed through the same eyelid incision taking away that angry look.

The lower eyelid fat is removed through the inside of the lower eyelid and the skin is smoothed with a laser. In patients with excessive skin of the lower eyelid or who may not be suitable for laser resurfacing, an external incision is made and skin is removed.

Philosophy: Do you look tired after a good night's sleep? Eyes are the windows of the soul. People see you through your eyes. If your eyes look tired, they will distract from the rest of the face. That is why a facelift should be done with eyelift surgery if they have not been previously corrected.

Surgical time and recovery: Surgery takes about an hour. Stitches are out at 3-4 days. The patient can go back to work within the week.

Related procedures: Don't confuse this operation with a browlift that is often combined with an eyelift. The lower eyelid may also be tightened at the outer corner. This prevents drooping of the lower eyelid and gives a more youthful appearance.