Blepharoplasty refers to a procedure which is performed on the eyelids to remove skin or reposition fat or both. Blepharoplasty has evolved significantly over the last 6 years to go from a procedure which would classically leave people with hollow eyes to a procedure which now leaves patients with a more youthful appearance without the operated look.
What are the aging effects on the upper lid?
The upper eyelid aging is due to 2 main effects, gravity and laxity.
Gravity causes stretching of the skin which results in excess skin on the upper eyelids. This stretching can result in patients feeling like they need to raise their eyebrows to keep their eyes open.
Laxity of the orbital septum (layer of tissue which separates the eyelid fat from the eyelid muscle and skin) causes the fat which surrounds the eye to prolapse (protrude) out through the skin. This causes the effect of what is commonly referred to as “upper lid bags”. This fat is unique in the body because fat of the eyelid is what is referred to as “non habital”. Non habital fat does not increase or decrease with changes in body weight and may actually become more noticeable with weight loss. The fat compartments of the upper lid are divided into 2 – medial and lateral – the lateral being larger than the medial.
What is an Upper Lid Blepharoplasty?
An upper blepharoplasty is a procedure which involves removing excess skin of the upper eyelid as well as any fat which may be apparent in the upper eyelid. The skin is then closed meticulously to ensure there is minimal scar. Dr Dan Robinson performed a one year fellowship in facial plastic surgery and during this time was taught how to perform an upper blepharoplasty. Dr Dan Robinson is able to place the scar from a blepharoplasty in the skin crease of the upper lid to ensure that it is hidden well.
Recovery from an upper blepharoplasty is quite quick, with patients able to return to normal activity within 10 days with most of the bruising gone within 2 weeks.
How do I choose a surgeon for my Upper Lid Blepharoplasty?
The best surgeon for you is the one which you feel most comfortable with. Many surgeons are self taught in upper lid blepharoplasty. Dr Dan Robinson has undergone a whole year of training in facial plastic surgery which included training in upper lid blepharoplasty.
Where to from here?
If you are interested in discussing blepharoplasty more with Dr Dan Robinson make an appointment to see him in his rooms. He will then discuss the benefits and appropriateness of the procedure with you and explain in more detail about the operation. Dr Dan Robinson also offers the lower lid blepharoplasty procedure.
