Eyelid surgery is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed today and there are many benefits to combining both upper and lower surgery into the same procedure.
If you are considering eyelid surgery in Richmond, VA, you should learn more about the procedure, its benefits, and recovery time from an expert. Dr. Kitto is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience completing eyelid surgery, she can help customize your treatment plan to help you reach your cosmetic and functional goals.
What is eyelid surgery?
The delicate skin around the eyes is often the first area to show visible signs of aging. Over time, the tone, texture, muscles, and shape of the skin around our eyes can change. This can be due to genetics and face shape or can be caused by a loss of volume and elasticity in the skin.
Upper and lower eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids. The procedure can correct the appearance of thin, wrinkled, or loose skin, both for aesthetics and to correct vision issues.
If eyelid skin begins to droop, it can easily begin to impact vision and the eyelid surgery may be more functional than cosmetic.
Upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, targets the skin in the upper eye area. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat that falls over the natural crease in the eyelid, which often creates a hooded eye appearance.
As we age, our facial skin loses elasticity, so removing loose skin can improve the overall appearance of the eye by creating a younger look.
To complete the upper eye surgery, Dr. Kitto places an incision along the natural crease in the eyelid and then removes the excess skin and tissue that is causing either functional or aesthetic concern.
On the other hand, lower eyelid surgery, or lower blepharoplasty, really focuses on reducing the appearance of puffiness from under the eye. Aging skin can impact the contour of the eyelid and give the appearance of droopy skin or heavy undereye bags.
A lower lid surgery normally involves an incision just below the lower lash line. Excess skin and fat is then removed and the skin is lifted and tightened to give a smoother and more youthful appearance.
Both upper and lower eyelid surgery require general anesthesia and the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Patients undergoing the procedure are released the same day, but will need someone to drive them home and stay with them for at least 24 hours post-procedure.
Some swelling and bruising are normal post-op symptoms and should subside within a couple of weeks. Typically, results from eyelid surgery are instantly noticeable and can last for several years
What are the benefits of undergoing upper & lower eyelid surgery simultaneously?
Choosing to have an upper or lower eyelid surgery can give you stunning results towards your goals. Both provide immediate improvement to the appearance of eyes and can last for several years.
Often, surgeons will recommend having both upper and lower eyelid surgery done simultaneously. There are several benefits to this treatment path.
- Having both procedures completed in one surgery reduces the need to go under anesthesia twice and eliminates the need for two operating room appointments, saving time and money.
- Combining the procedures also reduces preparation time and recovery time. One surgery means one recovery period. This simultaneous recovery can also help give eyes a balanced appearance as the healing takes place together.
If you are considering getting upper and lower eyelid surgery either separately or simultaneously, take a look at Dr. Kitto’s before and after gallery to see some of the results you can expect.
Whether you are looking to eliminate puffiness, remove a hooded eye appearance, or lift skin that may be impairing vision, an eyelid surgery near you in Richmond, VA may be the best choice to reach your goals.
If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto, or wish to schedule a online consultation, call us today at 804.294.1777.