Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty): rejuvenating the eyes
La eyelid surgeryCalled blepharoplastyEyelid surgery is a cosmetic facial procedure that aims to correct excess skin and bags under the eyes. Over time, the eyes can appear tired, sad, or aged, even when you feel healthy.
Blepharoplasty opens up and softens the eyes, while maintaining a natural and harmonious result. The procedure can involve the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both, depending on the clinical examination and your expectations.
Table of contents
What is the blepharoplasty ?
La blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is the procedure which allows the removal of excess skin and, if necessary, the treatment of fatty deposits in the upper and/or lower eyelids.
The goal is to rejuvenate the eyes, reduce the appearance of drooping eyelids or under-eye bags, and achieve a more rested look. Current techniques aim for a natural result, with scars placed in discreet areas.
Upper eyelids and lower eyelids: what differences?
La eyelid surgery Upper eyelid surgery primarily addresses excess skin that causes a heavy-looking appearance, sometimes associated with visual discomfort. Lower eyelid surgery, on the other hand, targets under-eye bags and certain pronounced dark circles, aiming to smooth the transition between the eyelid and the cheek.
During the consultation, the indication is specified: upper eyelids only, lower eyelids only, or a combination of both for an overall result.
Progress of the intervention
Before a blepharoplasty
- Consulting: 1 to 2 consultations with the plastic surgeon, +/- 1 consultation with the anesthesiologist
- Tips: Stop smoking at least 3-4 weeks beforehand, stop taking anticoagulants (aspirin or NSAIDs) 10 days before the procedure
- Signature documents (quote, informed consent), and taking pre-operative photographs
- Reflection period: 15 days between the first consultation and the procedure
The intervention of blepharoplasty
- Anesthesia: local, local with sedation or general
- Duration of the intervention: Between 30 minutes and 1 hour
- Hospitalization : Outpatient (same-day discharge)
Sequences and Outcome of the blepharoplasty
- Post-operative instructions : Wearing sunglasses for 8 to 10 days
- Removing the wires: Threads to be removed in 7 to 10 days
- Rest : 1 to 7 days.
- Resumption of physical activities: Between 2 and 4 weeks
- Resumption of professional activities: in some cases as early as the next day, or after 7 days of recovery.
- Timeframe for final result: between 3 and 6 months most often, but sometimes up to 1 year after the procedure
Fee for the intervention
- You will receive a quote at the first consultation.
- The price includes hospitalization, operating room, anesthesia, surgeon, and surgical assistant fees.
- Coverage may be available through social security if the excess skin results in a partial loss of vision.
Documents
List of anatomical areas concerned
- Upper eyelids
- Lower eyelids
- Fat pockets
- Dark circles
- droopy eyelids
- bags under the eyes
FAQ
Is eyelid surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia (often local, sometimes with sedation, or general, depending on the case). Post-operative effects are generally mild and well-managed with appropriate treatment.
How long do bruises and swelling last?
Swelling and bruising may appear in the first few days. Their duration varies from patient to patient, but improvement is usually gradual over 1 to 2 weeks.
Are the scars visible?
The scars are placed in natural folds (upper eyelid) or along the lash line / in a discreet area (lower eyelid), in order to make them barely visible once healing is complete.
Can only the upper eyelids be treated, or only the lower eyelids?
Yes. Blepharoplasty can be targeted at a single area, or combined, depending on the examination and the desired aesthetic goal.
At what age should blepharoplasty be considered?
There is no “standard” age. The indication depends mainly on the extent of excess skin, bags under the eyes, and the aesthetic or functional discomfort.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a medical consultation.