If the eyes are the windows to the soul, the eyelids are the drapery. But as you age, this drapery can start looking a little dated. Eyelids may start to sag or droop, and puffy bags may form under the eyes. Aging eyes may need an eyelid lift to restore a taut, youthful appearance to the delicate skin on the upper and lower eyelids, and you’re in the best place to find out more.
Eyelid surgery is one of the most popular facial plastic surgery procedures requested by patients. Also called blepharoplasty or an eyelid lift, this procedure improves the appearance of the upper and, optionally, lower eyelids. Learn more about eyelid surgery with Dr. Brian K. Machida by reading this article and contacting STC Plastic Surgery or calling (909) 476-2600 to schedule an in-person consultation at our Inland Empire plastic surgery practice in Ontario, CA.
Types of Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty is the blanket term describing all types of eyelid surgery. As with all procedures at STC Plastic Surgery, blepharoplasty is an individualized and customized treatment. Since aging happens differently for each of our patients, your eyelid surgery may be very different from another patient’s procedure.
What types of eyelid surgery does Dr. Machida perform?
- Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty – An upper eyelid lift focuses on the upper eyelid. It can remove excess skin, fat pads, or bulky muscle. Incisions for upper eyelid surgery are typically placed in the crease of the upper eyelid, so they are not visible when the eye is open.
- Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty – A lower eyelid lift improves the appearance of the lower eyelid. It may also address bags or dark circles under the eyes. Dr. Machida removes skin, fat, and muscle to create a firmer lower eyelid and improve its shape. If the lower eyelid lacks definition, Dr. Machida may create a more defined transition from the eyelid to the midface. Incisions for a lower eyelid lift are typically placed along the lower lash line.
- Upper and Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty – Upper and lower eyelid procedures can be performed separately, but if rejuvenation is needed in both areas, they can be performed together.
Ask Dr. Machida what his recommendations are for improving the appearance of your eyelids. Some patients may benefit from the addition of non-surgical treatment, including dermal fillers or BOTOX®.
Is Eyelid Surgery Functional or Cosmetic?
Eyelid surgery can be performed for functional or cosmetic reasons. Patients often receive both functional and cosmetic benefits from this procedure.
Cosmetic eyelid surgery seeks to improve the appearance of the eyelids. It addresses wrinkles, loose skin, and bags under the eyes.
Functional procedures have the goal of addressing a functional problem like straining eyes caused by vision obstructions. Sagging eyelids often cause vision problems as the loose skin covers a portion of the eye. With a functional blepharoplasty, this excess skin is lifted and removed, helping patients to improve their vision by removing the eyelid obstruction.
Functional and cosmetic blepharoplasty can be performed together to improve vision and appearance.
Contact STC Plastic Surgery to Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation
Tired-looking eyes? Restore a youthful eyelid appearance with an eyelid lift. Contact Dr. Machida at STC Plastic Surgery or call (909) 476-2600 to learn more or schedule a consultation.