It is said that our eyes are the windows to the soul. At a very early age, we all learn to read a person’s mood from facial cues, most of which come from subtle changes around the eyes. As we age, loss of soft tissue volume, changes in the skin quality, and excess loose skin can give the false impression of appearing tired, sad, or angry. Because eyes are such prominent features of the face, even minor changes can have a profound impact on your appearance. As the only physician double Board-Certified in both Plastic Surgery and Ophthalmology with subspecialty fellowship training in Oculoplastic Surgery, Dr. John Park is a world-renowned expert in plastic surgery around the eyes.
What Is Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid Surgery, also known as Blepharoplasty, can correct drooping or bulging eyelids by removing excess fat, skin and muscle. Blepharoplasty is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that can give you a rested and refreshed appearance that no amount of sleep or make-up can do. Dr. John Park takes a holistic approach to the evaluation of your facial aging, paying close attention to the unique features of your eyebrows and cheeks in relation to your eyes.
Youthful Upper Eyelid
The upper eyelid fold rests about 3-8mm above the lash line in most Caucasians.
Loose Droopy Eyelid
Loose droopy upper eyelid skin (dermatochalasis) hangs over the upper eyelid crease and sags to or below the lash line.
Upper Eyelid Ptosis
Upper eyelid ptosis makes the eyes look smaller because the muscle that sets the eyelid height is weak.
Featured Upper Eyelid Before / After Photos*
“I went to see Dr. Park for my droopy eyelids. I was very nervous since I have never had any work done before. Dr. Park went over the procedure, showed actual pictures of previous patients that had the same procedure by him, and drew a diagram of what it would look like for me. I am so happy with the outcome! I feel totally confident recommending Dr. Park!”
– J.K., Actual Patient*
Why Patients Desire Eyelid Surgery
As we age, excess skin hangs below the upper eyelid crease, starting at the outer corners of the eyes. This excess skin, in addition to changes in the fat of the upper eyelid, can give the appearance of being tired or sad. Cosmetic upper blepharoplasty will remove the excess skin and excise, or reposition fat, to show more of the eyes and produce a bright and fresh look. In some instances, volume augmentation with liposculpture or injectable fillers with or without surgery will best restore natural and youthful contours of the upper face.
Examination of the eyebrows and forehead is a necessary component of the upper eyelid exam. Apparent excess in the upper eyelid skin may in fact be related to droopy eyebrows; if you push the tail of your eyebrow down, you will notice apparent excess skin at the upper eyelid. In these instances, it may be prudent to address the eyebrows and forehead instead of or in addition to the upper eyelids.
Distinct from excess skin that hangs over the eyelid crease (dermatochalasis), the eyelid itself may be droopy (eyelid ptosis), giving the impression of lack of sleep or focus. Eyelid ptosis is often under appreciated. Upper blepharoplasty alone in the presence of eyelid ptosis will yield a less than optimal outcome. Correction of eyelid ptosis is distinct from upper blepharoplasty and requires tightening of the muscles responsible for upper eyelid opening.
Candidates For Eyelid Surgery
If you are in overall good health and have droopy or baggy eyelids, you may be a candidate for eyelid surgery. Many patients decide to have blepharoplasty at an early age as many times this is often times one of the first features that begin to show aging.
Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Most patients usually return to work within two days of the surgery but should avoid strenuous exercise and activities for at least two weeks. Dr. John Park will give each patient individual and specific instructions on how to care for your eyes following the procedure. He will often recommend applying lubricating ointment and cold compresses to help aid the healing process and minimize side effects such as swelling, bruising, dry or irritation to the eyes.
Eyelid Surgery Consultation
If you’re considering an upper eyelid surgery, please contact John Park MD Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation and learn more. Call (949) 777-6883 or send an email to arrange an appointment.