Eyelid surgery is a common procedure for both men and women who want to appear more refreshed and youthful, but without that tight “stretched” look that often results from face lifts. It is also referred to as blepharoplasty, is popular because the results are long-lasting and cause someone to look more alert and well-rested. For those who have puffy eyes or under-eye bags, this type of operation can permanently remove the bags and change your appearance dramatically. It is like a fountain of youth!
How do you know if you are a good candidate for this operation? Some common reasons to seek out this procedure are: excess or droopy skin around the upper or lower eyelids, a puffy appearance around the eyelids, excess skin, fine lines, or wrinkles around the lower eyelids, or bags or dark circles underneath the eyes. When you consult with your doctor, they can give you a better idea of the results you can expect. Once you see before and after photos of other patients and their dramatic transformations you will see that eyelid surgery is worth the cost! It is not uncommon for individuals to look 10-20 years younger after this procedure.
The most important step you can take is to do your research in finding a good surgeon. It is imperative to find someone who you feel comfortable with and who will answer all of your questions and put you at ease. At the same time, you must find a surgeon who is specialized in eyelid surgery and has several years and several hundreds of procedures in his or her experience. One place to start is to go to the website for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) to see the board certified surgeons in your area. To become a member of ASPS the surgeon must have completed at least 5 years of surgical training (2 in plastic surgery), is trained and experienced, adheres to a strict ethical code, and operates only in accredited medical facilities.
Cost for eyelid surgery can vary depending on the actual procedure done, the experience of your surgeon, and your geographical location. For example, surgeons in Beverly Hills or Manhattan are likely to be the most expensive but they are also likely the most experienced.
Fees are often broken down into several parts, including the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fee, facility fees, and medical tests. You may also wish to stay for a few days in a post-operative care facility, similar to a spa but with full-time medical staff, as you recover.
Ask anyone who has undergone this process if it was worth it, and you will hear a resounding YES. After all, you cannot put a price on looking younger and feeling more confident and like yourself again as for me I rather stick to the best eye cream!