The rise of effective, nonsurgical facial rejuvenation treatments is without a doubt one of the most significant changes in the cosmetic field during the past 10 to 20 years. Specialized fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic injections can make a real difference in the appearance of patients who want to look refreshed and youthful. Treatments around the eyes can be especially effective, but in some cases, it’s better to undergo eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) at our Des Moines practice.
Knowing which procedure is best for a specific patient involves a number of factors that facial plastic surgeons consider during their consultations. The patient’s goals and concerns and a physical examination of the area around the eyes help clarify the best treatment path.
When to Use Injectables
When the delicate skin around the eyes starts losing its elasticity, upper eyelids start to sag and crow’s feet can develop at the corners of the eyes. Aging and genetics can also contribute to the presence of dark circles or bags under the eyes. Strategically placed BOTOX injections can temporarily smooth crow’s feet and give a subtle lift to the brows, taking a few years off your appearance. For under-eye bags and dark circles, fillers such as Restylane® can smooth this area and reduce shadows.
One of the benefits of getting injectable treatments is little to no downtime. The injections take only a few minutes to complete and most patients can return to work or their other activities immediately after leaving our office.
When to Choose Eyelid Surgery
Upper and lower blepharoplasty create long-lasting results for men and women who believe they look tired or older than they feel due to the appearance of their eyelids. Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and can remove or reposition fat pads around the eyes. In some severe cases, droopy eyelids can even impair a person’s peripheral vision.
Lower eyelid surgery minimizes the look of under-eye bags by repositioning or removing fat and tightening excess skin. In both procedures, the surgeon makes incisions that are concealed, so there are no worries about scarring. Some patients can benefit from having both lower and upper eyelid surgery performed during the same operation. A procedure can take from 1 to 3 hours. Recovery following eyelid surgery usually requires taking at least a week off from work and avoiding strenuous exercise for up to a month.
The advantage of eyelid surgery compared to fillers is that the results are more dramatic and can last for years. The aging process continues, of course, but patients appear much more youthful and refreshed after surgery.
People who get eyelid surgery range from men and women in their 20s or 30s to individuals 60 or older. There really is no reason to wait, if you’re self-conscious about the appearance of your eyelids.
If you’ve been considering either nonsurgical or surgical eyelid procedures, you can contact us using the online form to request a consultation or call us at (515) 277-5555 to schedule an appointment.
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