When it comes to the right time for blepharoplasty, more commonly known as eyelid surgery, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all age. Most people consider eyelid surgery in their late 30s to early 50s, but the right age really depends on each person’s individual concerns and needs. For some, early signs of aging begin around their eyes in their 30s, but others may not experience significant changes until much later. That being said, it’s important to assess the particular conditions of your eyelids to determine whether surgery is necessary and what specific eyelid surgery would be the right solution for you.
Dr. Michael Cash and his team in Nashville, TN, are here to help you decide when the best time to start exploring blepharoplasty is and what the procedure would look like for you.
Understanding Blepharoplasty: What Is Eyelid Surgery?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from either the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. This procedure helps to give the appearance of youth and rest by combatting drooping, puffiness, and other signs of aging that affect the eye area. In some cases, eyelid surgery can improve your vision if your sight is being hindered by drooping eyelids.
Common Signs Indicating the Need for Eyelid Surgery
Knowing when to consider blepharoplasty often comes down to recognizing the signs that indicate the procedure. A few common symptoms that suggest it might be time to explore this option include:
- Loose or droopy upper eyelids, making you look tired or older
- Bags or puffiness around the eyes, making you appear tired even when you’re well-rested
- Loose or extra skin around the eyes, which can limit peripheral vision
- Fine wrinkles at the outer corner of the eye, sometimes appearing as crow’s feet
If you begin noticing one or several of these concerns impacting your appearance, it may be the right time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cash to take a look at your options.
Age-Related Changes in the Eyelids: When Do They Occur?
With aging, there is a loss of skin elasticity and firmness, and the muscles around the eyes begin to weaken. These changes usually start in the late 20s to early 30s, but they do not usually become apparent until the 40s and 50s. Common complaints about the eyelids due to aging include loss of skin elasticity, the development of fat pockets underneath the eyes, and thinning skin that accentuates wrinkles and fine lines. Understanding these changes can help you decide when blepharoplasty might be a good option.
Ideal Age Range for Considering Blepharoplasty
While there is no specific age for blepharoplasty, most patients usually seek the procedure between their mid-30s to mid-50s. In your 30s, subtle changes can often be corrected with more conservative procedures and treatments. However, in your 40s and 50s, a more intensive surgery may be recommended to reverse the aging process. However, age isn’t the only factor impacting your candidacy for blepharoplasty. Your lifestyle, genetics, and personal aesthetic goals play an important role, too.
Health Factors That Influence Timing for Blepharoplasty
Good health is always required when any surgery is performed, and blepharoplasty is no exception. The candidates for eyelid surgery should be non-smokers and free of severe chronic illnesses, such as uncontrolled diabetes and heart diseases.
Eye conditions, such as dry eyes or glaucoma, may also make the surgery more complicated. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Cash can determine how you fit as a candidate and determine the most appropriate timing for your procedure.
Non-Surgical Blepharoplasty Alternatives: Do They Work?
Other non-surgical alternatives might temporarily improve the appearance of the eye area like Botox or dermal fillers that can smooth wrinkles and restore lost volume. These methods can temporarily reduce the appearance of the crow’s feet and wrinkles in the forehead.
While these techniques may be useful for early signs of aging, they are not as effective as blepharoplasty in providing long-term results.
How to Prepare for Blepharoplasty: Pre-Operative Steps
After you decide to have blepharoplasty, preparation will play a crucial role in your smooth recovery. A few pre-operative steps to plan for include:
- Discussing your current medications and supplements with Dr. Cash to determine how you should proceed before your procedure
- Arranging someone to drive you home after the procedure and to help you out for the first few days
- Quitting smoking several weeks before your surgery, as smoking damages your skin and can delay healing
- Preparing your home with essential recovery items, such as cold compresses, comfortable pillows, and prescribed medications
Consulting a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: What to Expect
A consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Cash will include an examination of the eyelids, a discussion about your medical history, and a review of your cosmetic goals. From there, he can offer realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery.
Schedule Your Nashville Blepharoplasty Consultation Today
If you’re ready to take the first step toward revitalizing the appearance of your eyes, call (615) 454-2271 or contact Nashville Plastic Surgery to schedule your consultation today.