A facelift and eyelid surgery are two different operations.
They are different problems
The face usually portrays the first visible signs of aging. Both gravity and diminished volume result in the facial features of aging.
A facelift works below the skin. Over the years the procedure has changed from simple skin lifting to more complex deeper-plane techniques. Incisions are usually made in front of and behind the ear and may extend into the scalp; the deeper layers of the face are lifted, muscle tightening and liposuction of the neck and jowls may be performed, and excess skin is removed or repositioned. The results are a reversal of the effects of gravity and tightening of soft tissues of the face to restore a more youthful contour to the face.
Blepharoplasty — eyelid surgery — works on the eyelids themselves. Upper blepharoplasty addresses the heavy, hooded upper lid. Lower blepharoplasty addresses the puffiness and shadowing beneath the eye. Aesthetic eyelid surgery has the effect of making you look more rested, refreshed and alert.
What each operation addresses
There are many different variations of the facelift procedure that smooth the skin of the face and neck, tighten the underlying tissues and muscle, and remove excess skin.
Any one or combination of the following conditions may indicate that you may be considered a good candidate for eyelid surgery:
- Excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids
- Loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids, perhaps impairing vision
- A puffy appearance to the upper eyelids, making the eyes look tired
- Excess skin and fine, “crepe paper type” wrinkles of the lower eyelids
- Bags and dark circles under the eyes
- Lower eyelid droopiness
If the upper eyelid condition is accompanied by sagging of the eyebrows, then a forehead lift may be recommended.
Facelift with eyelid surgery: patient 09
Patient 09 in our before-and-after gallery had a facelift with upper and lower blepharoplasty.
Facelift with upper and lower eyelid surgery
Before-and-after views, published with patient consent.
What a consultation actually settles
Photographs, an examination, and a conversation about what specifically bothers you. Most patients requesting evaluation for a facelift feel that their facial features do not reflect their youthful spirit and energy level.
During the pre-operative consultation, your surgeon will perform a history and physical examination. During your physical examination, your facial bone structure, underlying skin structure, brow position, eyelid and eye aesthetics, skin thickness, texture, and elasticity will be assessed.
Dr. Carlin has practiced aesthetic plastic surgery in Columbia since 1998 and limits his practice to the face, breast and body. Surgery is performed in the practice's own private surgery center in West Columbia. The office is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 to 5:00, and closed Friday. We do not accept insurance.