Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is one of the most demanded facial rejuvenation procedures nowadays. Over the years, the eyelids may undergo noticeable changes, such as skin atrophy and the formation of fat bags under the eyes. These changes can lead to an aged and tired appearance. The main objective of blepharoplasty is to rejuvenate the eyelids by remodeling the periocular tissues. In this publication, we will explain in detail this surgery, its objectives, and advances in its technique. Here are 13 key facts about blepharoplasty.

1-Concept of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure that seeks to improve the appearance of the eyelids by removing excess skin and fat pads in the upper and lower eyelids. This surgery is performed mainly for aesthetic reasons, with the objective of restoring a youthful appearance to the eyelids, however, the individuality of each patient must always be preserved, achieving a natural result and avoiding visible scars. In addition to aesthetic reasons, in some cases it is performed for visual reasons, since excess skin on the upper eyelids can reduce the field of vision.

2-Evolution of Blepharoplasty: Advances in Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty has undergone significant advances in technique over time. Originally, the focus was on skin and fat resection, but nowadays, special attention is paid to the functionality of the eyelids to minimize unwanted effects. Some of the problems that can arise after surgery, such as palpebral incompetence or sinking of the eye, have been reduced thanks to these improvements in technique.

3-Extended Blepharoplasty: A Comprehensive Approach

Today, “extended blepharoplasty” procedures are performed that comprehensively address different periocular areas, such as the suborbital fatty tissue, lower fat and lateral canthus. These expanded approaches improve the esthetic outcome and allow for faster recovery.

4-Blepharoplasty Techniques: Correcting Drooping Eyelids

There are several blepharoplasty techniques depending on the area to be treated:

• Upper Blepharoplasty: This technique is used to correct drooping upper eyelids due to aging, congenital defects, injury or disease. Excess skin and, in some cases, a portion of the underlying orbicularis oculi muscle is removed. Incisions are made in the natural creases of the eyelids to minimize visible scarring.
• Lower Blepharoplasty: This technique addresses the laxity of the tendon fiber structures, which over time can lead to fat pockets and sagging of the skin and muscles in the lower eyelids.
• Complete blepharoplasty: Combines the correction of upper and lower eyelids in a single procedure.

5-Non Surgical Blepharoplasty or Eyelid Lift

Blepharoplasty without surgery is an option for those patients who do not have a severe case of eye bags. This alternative is suitable for cases of early pocket formation or when surgery is preferred to be avoided. It is important to keep in mind that results are not immediate and require time.

6-Blepharoplasty Procedure

The blepharoplasty process involves several steps:

• Preoperative: An ophthalmologic examination is performed to evaluate ocular health and medical factors such as allergies and medications in use are considered.
• The Intervention: The surgery is customized for each patient’s individual needs. It can be performed under local anesthesia and sedation, and its duration varies according to the technique used.
• Postoperative: The recovery process is generally fast, and results are visible from the beginning. Scars, if any, are practically imperceptible after a few weeks.

7-Before and After Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty offers remarkable results, correcting excess skin and fat in the eyelids. In addition to the cosmetic benefits, this surgery can improve the field of vision, especially in cases of drooping eyelids that obstruct vision.

8-Indications for Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty is recommended for people with drooping eyelids that give them a sad look, for those with excess skin in the upper eyelids that hinder vision, or for those with fat bags under the eyes that contribute to a tired appearance. This last reason is especially common with aging.

9-Preparations and Considerations

La blefaroplastia requiere ciertos preparativos, como la limpieza de los párpados, la administración de colirio antibiótico y análisis médicos para evaluar la anestesia local.

10-The Intervention and its Duration

La cirugía implica la extracción de piel o grasa sobrante a través de incisiones mínimas. Puede realizarse con tecnología láser, lo que tiene ventajas adicionales como una recuperación más rápida y menos hematoma postoperatorio.

11-Postoperative period and healing

After surgery, it is normal to experience bruising, redness, and swelling. These symptoms usually disappear within a few days. The postoperative period may include treatments such as artificial tears, antibiotics, corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory drugs, depending on the needs of each patient.

12-Precautions and Recovery Time

Después de la cirugía, se deben seguir ciertas precauciones, como evitar el contacto con el agua y el jabón durante la primera semana, así como la exposición al sol, el maquillaje

y la actividad física durante el primer mes.

13-Final Blepharoplasty Evaluation

Postoperative follow-up is essential to ensure optimal results. In addition, in some cases, complementary cosmetic surgery techniques or non-surgical treatments may be recommended to further enhance the results.

Blepharoplasty is an excellent option to rejuvenate the eyes and, in many cases, improve eye health. If you are considering this plastic surgery, we invite you to consult with us MMG, we are specialists in blepharoplasty and we will perform a detailed analysis of your case and offer you the best solution for your case.