Procedure Time 1 - 2 Hours
Recovery Time 14 - 28 Days
Why People Want Eyelid Surgery
Dr. Shire offers both upper and lower blepharoplasty procedures. These procedures can be performed individually or combined in a single surgery. After blepharoplasty, patients should expect a more refreshed, rejuvenated look.
It isn't uncommon to encounter changes in our facial features as we age. Many of us develop wrinkles and sagging skin over the years, which can significantly change our appearance.
There are hundreds of thousands of eyelid surgeries performed in the U.S. each year. Below, we highlight why people seek out this surgery and what the process entails.
The constant presence of bags under the eyes or perpetually drooping, hanging skin on the upper lids can add years to your appearance, make you look tired, and even impair your vision. Sagging eyelids usually develop due to aging, as we lose tone and tightness in the muscles and skin. As we get older, our muscles begin to lose definition, and our skin starts to lose elasticity due to the gradual reduction in collagen production.
Meanwhile, deposits of fat start to gradually shift, leading to perpetually puffy eyelids. One of the most effective treatments for this condition is a surgical procedure called blepharoplasty, otherwise known as eyelid surgery. During blepharoplasty, the excess skin and fat that cause severe sagging are removed, along with deposits of fat in the lower eyelid that lead to puffiness.
Blepharoplasty Before and After Photos
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Procedure
For both the upper and lower eyelids, Dr. Shire will make external incisions in the natural folds of the eyelid. Because the incision is well hidden, there should be no visible scarring after the procedure. Dr. Shire will then remove excess skin, fat, and muscle to create a tighter and more toned eyelid. This eyelid surgery will not alter the shape of the eyes; instead, it results in a naturally refreshed appearance, avoiding the overly wide-eyed look sometimes associated with surgery.
While this gives an overview of what's possible with blepharoplasty, various techniques come with their own specifics. The goal is to improve the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. Many people deal with drooping skin, puffy eye bags, fatty deposits, and wrinkles. These changes may be a normal part of aging, but they can negatively affect an individual's self-esteem over time. To understand what Dr. Shire can achieve with blepharoplasty, let's break down the possibilities for both upper and lower eyelid surgery.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower eyelid surgery is similar to the procedure for the upper eyelids but with a few unique differences. Many people opt for lower eyelid surgery to remove excess fat under the eyes, which contributes to a puffy appearance. An incision can be made either inside the lower eyelid or just below the lower lash line, depending on the specific needs of the procedure.
While the primary focus of lower eyelid surgery is often the removal of excess fat, excess skin may also be removed to create a more uniform look after recovery. The fat can be repositioned for a more balanced appearance, which is especially helpful for patients dealing with a hollow or sunken look beneath their eyes.
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Upper eyelid surgery, as part of blepharoplasty, focuses on the removal of excess fat, skin, or muscle from the upper eyelid. Most people pursue this procedure when they experience an excess of one or more of these features. Not only can this surgery boost self-confidence, but it also provides a more youthful appearance to the eyes and face.
Local anesthesia and sedation are required for this procedure. An incision is made along the natural crease of the upper eyelid, allowing any scarring to be easily concealed as the body heals.
Recovery from Blepharoplasty
After blepharoplasty, most patients can return to their normal routines within a few days, although full recovery may take 4 to 6 weeks. Recovery time varies for each individual. Any swelling and bruising are typically minimal, and there is no significant pain associated with eyelid surgery. As with many cosmetic procedures, the results from blepharoplasty can vary between patients due to factors such as health and age. However, there are general results that most patients can expect once fully healed.
First and foremost, most people notice a more youthful appearance. Your eyes may also look more open and "awake." In some cases, vision may be improved if sagging skin was affecting it. Patients who undergo lower eyelid surgery often see a dramatic reduction in puffiness beneath their eyes.
One of the most appealing aspects of blepharoplasty, appreciated by patients both in Chattanooga and across the United States, is the long-lasting results. To get the most out of your surgery, it's essential to work with a board-certified, experienced facial plastic surgeon with a proven track record. While results from upper eyelid surgery can last 10 to 20 years, the results from lower eyelid surgery can be permanent.
Why Choose Dr. Shire As Your Blepharoplasty Surgeon
Selecting the right surgeon for your blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is essential for achieving your desired results. Dr. Shire brings over 25 years of facial plastic surgery experience to his patients and has earned himself a reputation as a trusted expert and the best eyelid surgeon in Chatanooga and the surrounding region.
Dr. Shire’s top-tier, natural blepharoplasty results begin with an unmatched foundation of instruction and training. His comprehensive education has given him a deep understanding of eyelid anatomy, surgical technique, and aesthetic considerations, allowing him to deliver the highest-quality results. As a fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and member of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Shire’s commitment, education, and training are unmatched.
Your satisfaction is Dr. Shire’s top priority. He truly listens to your goals and ensures you have all the information needed to confidently proceed with your blepharoplasty. His dedication to a personalized experience and outstanding communication are reflected in his numerous positive testimonials and many satisfied and returning clients. Additionally, safety is paramount at Dr. Shire’s medical practice. He utilizes advanced, minimally invasive techniques and state-of-the-art technology to enhance your recovery and results.
Blepharoplasty is an effective way to rejuvenate your appearance and refresh your eye area. Dr. Shire’s unmatched attention to detail, surgical skill, and personalized care make him the premier choice for your blepharoplasty procedure. Choosing Dr. Shire for your eyelid surgery means working with a talented, experienced, compassionate professional who delivers beautiful, long-lasting, and natural results.
Procedures That Pair Well With Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
While some people opt to have blepharoplasty performed on its own, many choose to combine it with other cosmetic procedures. Blepharoplasty pairs well with a variety of cosmetic enhancements to the face, offering a more uniform and youthful appearance. Some procedures that complement blepharoplasty include the following:
These are just a few common examples, but there are many ways to combine facial plastic surgery procedures. If you're interested in more than one procedure, be sure to mention this during your consultation with Dr. Shire. During the consultation, you will also discuss the expected costs, which depend on the specifics of your surgery.
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