By Dr. Courtney Gwinn
Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon, Board-Certified Dermatologist
Many people have excess skin of the upper eyelids that eventually leads to a feeling of “heaviness” or “tiredness” of the eyes at the end of the day. Some people even experience obstruction of vision due to excess eyelid skin. Upper blepharoplasty, also known as an upper eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the upper eyelids by removing excess skin. This procedure can rejuvenate the upper eyelids, making the eyes appear brighter, and more youthful.
Who is a good candidate for upper blepharoplasty?
A good candidate for upper blepharoplasty is a healthy individual with excess skin or fat in the upper eyelids, causing the eyelids to droop or sag. This can be a result of aging, genetics, or other factors. Upper blepharoplasty can also help individuals with vision problems due to the sagging skin around the eyes.
The Day of the Procedure
Upper blepharoplasty is performed in our office under local anesthesia with the patient awake and interacting. The surgeon will excise the extra skin and place the incision along the upper eyelid’s natural crease, concealing any scarring. Your Provider will send you home with instructions for your aftercare. Sutures are left in place for one week after surgery.
Recovery
After the procedure, you may experience some swelling and bruising lasting a week to ten days. We recommend keeping your head elevated for the first few days and avoiding any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. The sutures will be removed within a week. For upcoming social engagements or life events (weddings, birthdays, etc.), we typically recommend giving yourself at least six weeks to be red-carpet-ready.
What Results to Expect
The results of an upper blepharoplasty can be dramatic, giving the patient a youthful, bright-eyed, and refreshed appearance. Results are long-lasting and transformative! Your eyes will continue to age, but only a minority of patients may require a repeat upper blepharoplasty in 10-15 years.
So you want to avoid surgery?
We completely understand! The team at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery values a conservative, collaborative approach. If you feel like you have minor laxity of the upper eyelids, a “BOTOX® Cosmetic or Dysport® Browlift” might be right for you. This procedure uses the strategic placement of neurotoxin to weaken brow depressor muscles and ultimately lift the eyebrows. Many patients can avoid surgery for 5-10 years with a BOTOX Cosmetic brow lift alone. Your Provider will help you determine whether a BOTOX Cosmetic browlift will work for you or whether an upper blepharoplasty is necessary to get you the desired result.
We are always available to discuss any concerns or answer any questions. Whether you are interested in blepharoplasty or our other cosmetic treatments, we hope you will trust us to bring you the best patient-centered treatment in a caring environment. Our team of Board-Certified Dermatologists, Certified Physician Assistants, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners, and Cosmetic Specialists specialize in Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology. Book an appointment today. Our three locations in Spokane North, Spokane Valley, and Coeur d’Alene, ID, are ready to see you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Courtney Gwinn, M.D., FAAD – Dr. Gwinn specializes in Mohs Skin Cancer Surgery, Medical Dermatology, Skin Cancer Treatments, and Cosmetic Dermatology. She is a dedicated advocate for her patients, tirelessly providing the best possible individualized care for each patient she serves. When she is not working at the Spokane Valley, WA, or the Coeur d’Alene, ID locations, she enjoys backcountry skiing, playing the harp, hiking, water-skiing, running, and spending time with her husband, Ray, and her family.