Am I a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?

If you’re like many people, you may think of cosmetic surgery — particularly on the face — as something that’s primarily reserved for older patients and/or women. In reality, facial plastic surgery is extremely popular among both men and women of almost all ages, with eyelid surgery being one of the most in-demand types of facial plastic surgery today. 

Because cosmetic eyelid surgery can correct a wide range of concerns in both the upper and lower eyes, most otherwise healthy adults can be considered candidates for the procedure. Here, board-certified plastic surgeon Ben J. Childers, M.D., F.A.C.S., and our knowledgeable team at Riverside Plastic Surgery share more in-depth information on who is a candidate for eyelid surgery in Riverside, CA, how cosmetic eye surgery works, and more. 

What does blepharoplasty help with? 

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, is designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both by removing or repositioning excess skin and fat. The procedure can help patients look more rested and youthful while also improving comfort or vision in some cases. Depending on your needs, blepharoplasty may help address:  

• Droopy upper eyelids 
• Loose or sagging eyelid skin 
• Puffy upper eyelids 
• Bags beneath the eyes 
• A tired or aged appearance 
• Obstructed vision caused by excess upper eyelid skin 

During your consultation, Dr. Childers will evaluate your concerns and recommend a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve natural-looking results. 

Am I a good candidate for eyelid lift surgery? 

Most healthy adults who are bothered by changes around the eyes may be candidates for blepharoplasty. While many patients seek eyelid surgery because of age-related skin laxity, younger adults with inherited under-eye bags or naturally heavy upper eyelids may also benefit. In general, candidates:  

• Are in overall good health 
• Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery 
• Have realistic expectations 
• Are looking to improve excess eyelid skin, puffiness, or a tired appearance 

The best way to determine whether eyelid surgery is appropriate for you is through a consultation with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Childers. 

Is there any reason not to get blepharoplasty surgery? 

Although blepharoplasty is considered a safe and highly successful procedure for appropriately selected patients, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Certain medical conditions, untreated eye disorders, uncontrolled health problems, or active smoking may increase surgical risks or interfere with healing. Patients should also have realistic expectations about what eyelid surgery can and cannot accomplish. 

During your consultation, Dr. Childers will review your medical history, evaluate your eye health, and discuss your goals to determine whether surgery is appropriate or whether another treatment may better suit your needs. 

Will my eyes look too wide open after eyelid surgery? 

One of the biggest misconceptions about blepharoplasty is that it leaves patients with an unnatural or surprised appearance. In reality, the goal of modern eyelid surgery is to create subtle, balanced improvements that preserve your natural facial expressions. By carefully removing only the appropriate amount of excess tissue and respecting the eye's natural anatomy, Dr. Childers can achieve refreshed results without making your eyes appear overly open or changing the unique character of your face. Most patients simply look more rested, alert, and youthful rather than noticeably "different." 

Do eyelid lift results last forever? 

While no cosmetic procedure can stop the natural aging process, eyelid surgery provides long-lasting improvements that many patients enjoy for years. Upper eyelid surgery often delivers results that last ten years or longer, while lower eyelid surgery frequently provides even longer-lasting correction because under-eye fat bags typically do not return. 

As your face continues to age naturally, you may eventually notice additional skin laxity, but most patients continue to look younger than they would have without surgery. Protecting your skin from sun damage and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help extend your results so you can look and feel your best over the long term. 

Look refreshed and feel your best with blepharoplasty in Riverside 

Whether you're bothered by drooping upper eyelids, persistent under-eye bags, or a tired appearance that doesn't reflect how you feel, blepharoplasty may be the solution you've been looking for. Dr. Ben J. Childers and our experienced team at Riverside Plastic Surgery are committed to helping patients achieve refreshed, natural-looking results with personalized eyelid surgery in Riverside, CA. Contact our plastic surgeon’s office today to schedule your consultation and find out whether blepharoplasty is right for you.