The Rise of Eye Opening Blepharoplasty
Our Columnist, Dr Yannis is a triple board-certified Plastic Surgeon, Founder and Medical Director of 111 Harley St. specialising in Facelifts and facial procedures in London’s highly respected medical area. Under the guiding hand of his expertise, the clinic specialises in plastic surgery procedures, aesthetic treatments and injectables with on-going research and an ever-evolving treatment menu incorporating the latest technologies and techniques.
I’ve been on Harley Street for almost quarter of a century – and a practising Plastic Surgeon for even longer. In recent years I’ve seen a noticeable increase in the popularity of Blepharoplasty, also known as an ‘Eye Lift’. So, what has created this rise in interest? I believe it most likely comes down to a number of factors, and speaking as someone who regularly performs this procedure on my patients, and sees the results Blepharoplasty can make to the facial aesthetic, I’m not surprised.
It’s well known that the delicate skin that surrounds the eyes is often one of the first areas to see the effects of ageing, whether it’s a surgical procedure, or a non-surgical option such as Thermage to tighten the skin around the eyes, or Botox to combat ‘crow’s feet’ rather than a surgical approach, eye procedures are very much sought after.
My approach has always been to seek the least invasive option for patients. This means treatment plans will often combine procedures, non-surgical alternatives and homecare products.
For those whom a surgical approach is the most appropriate course of action, Blepharoplasty offers several benefits that make the procedure an attractive option for anyone looking to enhance their appearance, specifically around the delicate eye area. It is also a procedure I regularly combine with other surgical operations such as Micrografting to naturally fill the tear trough area; or Facelifts and Neck Lifts for full facial rejuvenation, alongside non-surgical treatments for the best overall results.
In recent years, I have expanded our treatment menu at the clinic to include regenerative treatments which myself and my team frequently incorporate into treatment plans for the eye area. Polyneucleotides were a 2022 addition, and encourage the production of collagen in the skin, regenerating the undereye area. We then introduced exosomes treatments which facilitate intra-cellular communication which plays an essential role in keeping skin plump and refreshed, giving a youthful impression.
In addition – and not exclusively age-related - laser treatments are a popular choice for patients addressing pigmentation concerns around the eyes. Pigmentation can occur around the eyes as a result of increased melanin production resulting in dark circles.
At home, we recommend patients follow a daily routine comprising of products developed especially for the eye area. In fact, my skincare brand, 111SKIN was inspired by patients here at 111 Harley St. and is a leader in preventative skincare products for the eye area, including the Eye Lift Gel NAC Y²™, Black Diamond Eye Cream and our Eye Masks.
This surge in interest in isn’t coincidental, modern eye treatments and procedures including Blepharoplasty can yield fantastic results.
Is An Eye Lift The Same As A Blepharoplasty?
Typically, yes. When it comes to surgical procedures, a Blepharoplasty refers to an operation which gives the eyes a ‘lift’, creating a more open effect. The term ‘Eye Lift’ has become popular in the press and on social media, and I frequently see patients in consultation, referring to what I call a Blepharoplasty, as an ‘Eye Lift’.
In addition to a lifting, eye-opening result, a Blepharoplasty also corrects imperfections – these could be to the upper or lower eyelids, and sometimes both in the same surgery. The primary aim is usually to rejuvenate the eye area and restore a youthful appearance. While this procedure is often performed for aesthetic reasons, it can also be done to address functional concerns, such as improving vision obstructed by sagging eyelids.
In my clinic, 111 Harley St., I perform both Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty as standalone procedures, as well as in combination with facelifts and other treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
What Concerns Does Blepharoplasty Address?
This is a surgery that can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids. For the upper eyelid, it can address hooding which gives a heaviness to the appearance of the eyes. It can also resolve issues with skin laxity caused by the ageing process – and in some cases, also fix impairment of vision caused by excess, or loose skin which inhibits the peripheral vision.
During an Upper Blepharoplasty, the incisions are made along the natural crease line that occur above the eyelashes, this disguises the small resulting scar making it imperceptible.
In some cases, the surgeon may need to extend the incisions into the crow’s feet, or laughter lines, at the outer corners of the eyes. Fat, excess muscle and sagging skin can then removed. Once the surgeon is happy with the new positioning of the upper eyelid, the incisions are neatly closed.
For a Lower Blepharoplasty, the procedure can reduce under-eye bags, puffiness and reduce fluid buildup that can form below the eyes for a multitude of reasons. The lower eyelid can face several aesthetic issues so it’s something the Plastic Surgeon needs to consider and adjust their approach accordingly.
The incision for a Lower Blepharoplasty is typically just below the lash line, it can also be carefully hidden inside the lower eyelid (this is known as a Transconjuctival Blepharoplasty, or No Scar Blepharoplasty). When I perform this procedure, I then carefully reposition the muscles and any remove fat and excess skin required from the under-eye area to achieve a result that appears tighter and more youthful.
Why the Surge in Popularity?
There are several reasons why Blepharoplasty has become so popular in recent years. In my opinion, these are some of the key factors that contribute to the growing demand:
1. A Relatively Short Recovery Time
Compared to some other surgical procedures, Upper Blepharoplasty offers a relatively short recovery period. Whilst everyone’s body and healing process is unique, many patients experience minimal discomfort post-surgery, and are able to return to work and social activities quickly. It’s not unusual to see some swelling and bruising, but this typically subsides within the first few days. Unlike more invasive surgeries that may require a significant period of time away from normal activities and a lengthy recovery, an eye lift procedure offers a quicker return to everyday life without prolonged downtime.
2. Carefully Hidden Scarring
Scarring is often a concern for many patients when it comes to surgery. Fortunately, when it comes to Blepharoplasty, an expert surgeon can easily hide incisions in the natural folds of the eyelids meaning they are very discreet and barely noticeable, which further enhances the appeal of the procedure. For under-eye concerns I prefer a Transconjuctival Blepharoplasty which hides the incision inside the lower eye lid for a no-scar result.
3. Enhances The Overall Facial Appearance
The eyes are very often the first thing we notice about a person – and we’ve all heard the saying ‘the eyes are the windows to the soul’. Droopy eyelids, under-eye bags, and crow's feet can all contribute to a tired, aged impression. Addressing some of the age-related issues around the eye area with Blepharoplasty has the potential to make a person appear more youthful, rested, and vibrant – understandably adding the the appeal of this procedure.
Moreover, the procedure can be customised to the specific needs and goals of the patient. Whether someone has excess skin on the upper eyelids, puffiness or dark circles under the eyes, or a combination of these issues, a Blepharoplasty can be tailored to deliver optimal results.
4. It Can Be Done Under Local Anaesthetic
Blepharoplasty can usually be performed under a local anaesthetic, making it an appealing option for those wary of general anaesthesia, or those wanting to avoid the associated risks. Patients remain awake during the procedure, however the area around the eyes is carefully numbed with a local anaesthetic to ensure a painless experience. Performing the surgery under local anaesthetic allows for a faster recovery time and a smoother experience for patients.
My Advice As Blepharoplasty Rises In Popularity?
Whether it’s for cosmetic enhancement or a desire to turn back the clock, Blepharoplasty has undoubtedly become one of the go-to procedures for patients seeking to rejuvenate their face.
Go into any surgery with your eyes open - Blepharoplasty remains an expert procedure and I would encourage anyone considering it to ensure they select a plastic surgeon with the right qualifications and experience. Do your research, request to see before and after photos from previous patients, and ask questions at your consultation before making a decision to proceed.
