Blepharoplasty or Brow Lift?

Eyelids and the Signs of Aging

As we age, the forehead and eye area are the first places we begin to notice wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin, contributing to a tired and aged appearance. Drooping eyelids, in particular, are a common occurrence for many, not only making one appear older than their age but, in some cases, also interfering with vision. If you are increasingly unhappy with the appearance of your upper face and eyes, it may be time to consider cosmetic surgery.

Upper Blepharoplasty

Why Have a Blepharoplasty?

A blepharoplasty is performed for a variety of reasons, most commonly in patients who complain of a "tired" appearance. This appearance is due to heavy, drooping eyelids and under-eye bags. Thus, for patients with sagging eyelids, blepharoplasty is often the most appropriate treatment option.

Blepharoplasty can also be performed to improve eyelid symmetry or to improve vision, particularly in patients whose visual field may be obstructed due to upper eyelid laxity.

The procedure involves removing excess skin, muscle, or fat from the upper eyelid space (upper blepharoplasty). The goal is to reduce excess tissue and reshape underlying fat pads caused by fat to achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance.

When Not to Have a Blepharoplasty?

If your goal is simply to remove wrinkles at the corners of your eyes, there are other more appropriate and less invasive treatment options. In many cases, the appearance of a drooping upper eyelid is due to a combination of not only inherent excess skin but also brow descent, which compacts the upper eyelid space. In these situations, a forehead lift may be preferable to a blepharoplasty. In some scenarios, both a blepharoplasty and brow lift are needed to achieve optimal results.

If you have previously had an upper blepharoplasty but are starting to notice a recurrence of eyelid drooping, you may consider undergoing another procedure. However, if there is not much eyelid skin left to remove, a brow lift may be advised as an alternative. That said, most patients are thrilled with the outcome and don't feel the need to return for another procedure, as the results are long-lasting.

EXPRESS QUOTE

Would you like more information?

Brow Lift

Why Have a Brow Lift?

The goal of brow surgery is to lift and reposition the eyebrows to achieve a more youthful and natural appearance, in keeping with the rest of the face. Brow lifts are suitable for individuals who have low-set eyebrows or who have noticed a lowering of the brow area (brow ptosis) as they age. When the brow position is low, an individual may find themselves constantly raising their eyebrows, often causing wrinkles and fine lines on their forehead. Drooping eyebrows can also give the face an angry, sad, or tired look, impacting how patients are perceived by others. Some patients also complain about no longer being able to see the makeup applied to their eyelids.

A brow lift can refresh the appearance of the eye area without the need for eyelid surgery. However, many patients choose to undergo combined blepharoplasty and brow lift procedures, allowing them to benefit from a complete rejuvenation of their appearance.

There are several different approaches to brow lift surgery, including:

• Endoscopic brow lift, which uses keyhole incisions above the brow line;
• Internal brow lift, performed at the same time as a blepharoplasty through the same incision;
• Direct brow lift, generally used for very low brows and requiring an incision above the hairline of the eyebrow;
• Temporal brow lift, utilizing incisions behind the hairline, which can also be used to lift the outer part of the forehead;

When Not to Have a Brow Lift

If your brow position is naturally higher, a brow lift is generally not recommended, as it can result in a shocked or surprised appearance, which is obviously not ideal.

Furthermore, if you are averse to somewhat invasive procedures, a non-surgical treatment option to lift the brows, such as using injectables, might be preferable. However, they will not give the same lasting results as surgical methods.

Blepharoplasty or Brow Lift, Which is Right for Me?

Every patient is different and has their own desired outcome. The answer, therefore, really depends on what you hope to achieve. For drooping eyelids, blepharoplasty is the recommended procedure, but many patients opt for combined procedures to achieve an overall fresher and more youthful appearance.

Brow lifts are recommended for patients who have low or sagging eyebrows, helping to reduce the signs of aging and avoid looking tired, angry, or unhappy.

Whichever treatment you are considering undergoing, it is essential to seek advice from a professional surgeon, who will be able to assess your individual needs and give you a realistic idea of what can be achieved. As with many cosmetic procedures, there may be several solutions that would work for you.

Cosmetic surgeons understand each procedure in detail and have in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy and eyelid function, which will help you make the best decision.

What procedures to choose in case of other symptoms at the level of the look?

When faced with unusual symptoms around the eyes, it's crucial to consult an eye care professional for an accurate diagnosis. Symptoms can range from dry eyes to discomfort, or even blurred vision. The appropriate intervention will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, simple measures such as using lubricating eye drops may be sufficient to relieve symptoms. For more serious problems, such as glaucoma or eye infections, specific treatments, or even surgical interventions, may be necessary. It is imperative to follow your ophthalmologist's advice to ensure the best possible care.

What treatment for hollow under-eye circles?

Hollow under-eye circles, often caused by a loss of volume under the eyes, can be treated in various ways. One of the most common options is the use of dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid. This product is injected under the skin to restore lost volume, thereby reducing the appearance of hollow under-eye circles. This procedure is generally safe and effective, providing immediate results with minimal discomfort and recovery time. However, it's essential to consult a qualified aesthetic health professional to ensure the treatment is appropriate for your specific case and that the injections are performed safely.

What treatment for colored under-eye circles?

Colored under-eye circles, often bluish or purplish in hue, can be due to various factors such as skin pigmentation, poor blood circulation, or fatigue. To reduce the appearance of colored under-eye circles, several options are available. Using color correctors, such as orange or yellow correctors, can neutralize the bluish tint and create a more even complexion. Laser treatments can also be considered to stimulate blood circulation and reduce pigmentation under the eyes. In addition, topical creams containing ingredients such as vitamin C can help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark circles. It's essential to consult a dermatologist or qualified skin professional to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause of the colored under-eye circles.