Your eyes are the first thing people notice and a part of your face that often shows the first signs of aging. Your eyelid skin can be fragile and prone to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Usually, this is due to aging, but some people just have naturally sagging or puffy eyelids caused by genetics. Fortunately, eyelid surgery (also called blepharoplasty) can refresh the look of tired or sagging upper and lower eyelids, no matter the cause. So, what is a good age for blepharoplasty? Our Tallahassee plastic surgeons explain eyelid surgery for every age.
Eyelid Surgery in Your 20s
Eyelid surgery in your 20s is all about giving your eyes a subtle refresh. At this age, your eyes are probably still mostly vibrant and youthful looking.
If you do have drooping eyelids due to genetics or other causes, upper eyelid surgery can give your eyes a little lift. Lifting and tightening your eyelids makes your eyes appear wider and fresher. You can also have fun with mascara or eyelash extensions with more lifted eyelids.
Genetics is a major factor in whether you have dark under-eye circles or puffy eye bags at this age. Lower eyelid surgery can remove or adjust the pocket of fat under the eyes so the under-eye area is smooth and unshadowed.
On the other hand, if you have tear troughs and hollows under the eyes, facial fat grafting or dermal fillers may be good options.
Eyelid Surgery in Your 30s, 40s & Beyond
Starting in your late 30s and moving towards 40, you might notice increased sagging and loose skin in your eyelids. This is why it’s a good idea to consider the merits of eyelid surgery once you reach your 30s. In some instances, blepharoplasty can refresh your whole face’s appearance, even though the procedure is concentrated on the eyelids.
Your eyelid surgery procedure can involve the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or both. Upper eyelid surgery improves eyelid concerns due to age or genetics. This procedure can also help with vision issues when the upper eyelid skin sags so much that it obscures your peripheral vision. Lower eyelid surgery focuses on mostly cosmetic concerns such as wrinkles and saggy under-eye skin.
Eyelid Surgery Procedures for All Age Groups
You may also choose to have double eyelid surgery, which improves ethnic eyes by giving them a more rounded, open appearance. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this procedure is the most referenced in relation to blepharoplasty. Double eyelid surgery is a procedure suitable for any age group.
While most men and women may consider eyelid surgery in their 30s and 40s, there are no rules as to when you can get one. The right age is any age you feel your eyelids need tightening and refreshing. This related blog post shares more about what to expect during upper eyelid vs lower eyelid surgery.
What Is the Recovery Process for Eyelid Surgery?
After your eyelid surgery is completed, you will be able to recuperate at home. Your plastic surgeon will discuss aftercare recommendations and how to manage discomfort. It is normal to experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, and you will likely need to have a friend or family member drive you home from the surgery.
You should expect mild bruising and swelling for a few weeks after the surgery. You can use lightweight cold compresses on your eyelids to alleviate some of these issues.
Will I Have Scarring After Eyelid Surgery?
While there is always the possibility of scarring after surgery, you may have only minimal scarring. The skin on the eyelids is extremely thin, and incisions tend to heal faster on thin skin. If you are left with some scarring after the procedure, it may be visible only when your eyes are closed.
It’s important to remember that the extent of scarring depends on your skin type and genetics. Keeping your skin moisturized and protected from the sun may minimize the appearance of scars.
Are You a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
A good candidate for this procedure should be in good health and a nonsmoker. You should not have any serious eye conditions which may be aggravated by eyelid surgery. Additionally, you need to have realistic expectations about how eyelid surgery can improve your eyelid concerns.
Typically, eyelid surgery can only improve issues such as loose skin on the upper and lower eyelids or sagging lower eyelids. If you want to improve sagging or sun-damaged skin around the eyes, you can opt for laser skin treatments or microneedling.
Eyelid surgery can make you look refreshed and alert with just a few tweaks to your eyelids. You can see some of our patients’ amazing results in our before and after gallery. If you want to learn more about what eyelid surgery can do for you, request a consultation or call us at (850) 219-2000 to schedule an appointment.
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