Upper vs Lower Blepharoplasty: Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Blepharoplasty is one of the most highly requested procedures among patients seeking cosmetic surgery. The procedure creates a more rested and refreshed appearance. It can take years off your look. The upper and lower eyelids age in different ways. This is because the skin around the eyes is thinner and much more delicate. The natural aging process, poor lifestyle habits, and environmental factors impact it. Some people have concerns about their upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. You may wonder, upper vs. lower blepharoplasty: which procedure is right for you? Below you will find helpful information to determine which procedure is best for your unique needs.

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Many people want to refresh the look of their eyes. Upper v lower blepharoplasty is often a question they ask to determine how to achieve their desired aesthetic. Some patients need correction on the upper eyelids, while others may need it on the lower eyelids. In some cases, both procedures are necessary. This can effectively address your cosmetic concerns.

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Upper blepharoplasty removes the excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid. In some cases, excess muscle is also removed and tightened. The levator muscle can weaken as you get older. This muscle is responsible for lifting the upper eyelid. These changes address the drooping skin that can make the eye appear heavy and hooded. Upper eyelid issues can also result in functional issues. Many people report vision issues that make daily tasks difficult. The most common concerns are issues while reading and driving.

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Good candidates for the procedure have upper eyelid skin that creates a heavy, tired look. This can impact your aesthetic, making you look much older than you are. If you want to improve your appearance, the surgery may be right for you. The first step in moving forward with the procedure is scheduling a consultation with an eyelid surgeon. They can evaluate your eye structure and skin laxity. They will also review your medical history and assess your current health. Patients should be non-smokers and have realistic executions about the procedure.

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Lower blepharoplasty removes the excess skin and fat from beneath the eyes. In some cases, the fat is repositioned to create a smoother under-eye area. The procedure targets puffiness, under-eye bags, and loose skin under the eyes. The results create a smoother transition between the upper cheek and lower eyelid. Many patients report a boost in self-confidence due to the results. They have a dramatic effect on your appearance. This leaves you looking younger and well-rested.

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Candidates for lower blepharoplasty have persistent under-eye bags, hollowness, or loose skin under the eyes. If you want smoother and firmer under-eyes, this surgery may be right for you. A skilled eyelid surgeon can evaluate your eye structure and skin quality at the consultation. They will also evaluate your medical history and assess your current health. As with upper blepharoplasty, candidates should be non-smokers and have realistic expectations.

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Patients who have issues with their upper and lower eyelids often combine procedures. It is common to get both an upper and lower blepharoplasty procedure. For those who need it, this comes with several advantages. It is cost-effective, provides comprehensive results, and also combines recovery periods. Depending on your aesthetic goals, combining procedures may be the most beneficial option to achieve comprehensive results.

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The best way to determine upper v lower bleph is to schedule a consultation with a skilled eyelid surgeon. They can evaluate your concerns and determine if you are a good candidate. Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate, you can move forward with the procedure. The surgeon will provide you with pre-operative instructions, so you are prepared on the day of your surgery.

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Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia with sedation. This ensures your comfort throughout the procedure. In some cases, general anesthesia is used. This will be discussed at your consultation. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis so that you can go home the same day. Arrange a trusted friend or family member to drive you home, as you will not be able to drive yourself.

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Blepharoplasty can transform your look by taking years off of your face. If you are interested in eyelid surgery, contact the team at Jeffrey Joseph Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!