Do You Need Upper or Lower Eyelid Surgery — or Both?

As the saying goes, the eyes are the window to the soul. They're often the first thing people notice about us and one of the most important factors in expressing emotion. These are just a few of the reasons that people tend to feel insecure about their eyes as they age. The years go by and the skin on our eyelids begins to stretch, while the muscles in the area become weaker and weaker. This can lead to countless unwanted side effects, including wrinkles, loose skin, bags under the eyes, and poor peripheral vision. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi has performed numerous surgeries on the upper and lower eyelids in Newport Beach, CA. However, many patients are often unsure which one they need — or even if they might require both.

Ideal Candidates for Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery

With so many cosmetic procedures targeting the eyes, it can be difficult to know which one could help you achieve the results you've been striving to reach. For the right patients, upper and lower eyelid surgery can make your eyes look younger, happier, and more well-rested. It can be useful for patients with:

• • Excess upper eyelid skin affecting their peripheral vision
  • Upper eyelids that are drooping or baggy
  • Excess lower eyelid skin
  • Dark circles or bags under their eyes

What are the Differences Between Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery?

When deciding which surgery is right for you, it's important to take a long look at yourself in the mirror — specifically at your eyelids. Does the buildup of excess fat appear to be in one or both of your upper and lower eyelids? Dr. Hakimi will always give you his professional opinion during the initial consultation, but it's always best to be aware of how your eyelids are affecting you before you even schedule an appointment in Newport Beach, CA.

In virtually all cases, the procedure — also known as upper/lower blepharoplasty — will start with Dr. Hakimi administering a mix of both intraocular and intravenous medication meant to numb the eyelids. If the majority of the problems stem from the upper eyelid, Dr. Hakimi will make a small incision along the fold of it, which will reduce the visibility of any potential scarring after the surgery. He will then remove any excess skin, muscle, and fat until the eyelid is restored to its original beauty. At this point, the incision will be closed and, if operating on both eyelids, we will move on to the lower eyelid of the patient.

When it comes to the lower eyelid, the incision can be made either directly below the eyelashes — in the natural crease of the eye — or just inside the lower eyelid itself. Other than this difference in the location of the incision, the procedure works in much the same way as upper eyelid surgery. The unnecessary skin, muscle, and fat are extracted, and the incisions are closed. The recovery process usually takes around three weeks until the swelling subsides, and final results will be visible within 1 – 3 months.

Relive Your Youth

Upper and lower eyelid surgery can restore the confidence and vigor of anyone who has been struggling with the appearance of their eyelids. One simple procedure can save you from stress, insecurity, and time spent judging yourself in the mirror. Schedule a consultation in Newport Beach, CA today to have board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi assess your eyelids and discuss the procedure with you in more detail.