There are plenty of reasons why someone may look tired. A busy schedule, too little sleep, stress and simply getting older can all affect the appearance of the face.
But sometimes the eyes can continue to look tired even when someone is well rested. Drooping upper eyelid skin, bags beneath the eyes or changes in the tissues around the eyelids can contribute to this appearance.
This is one reason why some people consider blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery.
What is blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure involving the eyelids. Depending on the individual’s anatomy and concerns, surgery may be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
The procedure can address features such as excess skin and, in selected cases, changes involving the fat and tissues around the eyelids.
The aim is not simply to make the eyes look different. During a consultation, a specialist assesses the relationship between the eyelids, eyebrows, forehead and the rest of the face before determining whether surgery is appropriate.
Why can eyes look tired?
The appearance of tired eyes can have many causes, and not all of them require or can be addressed with surgery.
Temporary factors such as lack of sleep, dehydration or allergies can affect the appearance of the area around the eyes. With age, however, structural changes can also occur.
The skin gradually loses elasticity, while changes in the soft tissues around the eyes can contribute to:
- excess skin on the upper eyelids;
- puffiness around the eyes;
- bags beneath the lower eyelids;
- changes in the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.
For some people, these changes are primarily cosmetic. In other cases, excess upper-eyelid skin may also affect the visual field. A medical assessment is needed to determine the cause and whether surgery is appropriate.
When do people consider eyelid surgery?
There is no single age at which someone should have blepharoplasty.
Some people consider the procedure because they have noticed progressive changes in the eyelids over time. Others may have anatomical characteristics that have been present for many years.
The decision is generally based on the individual’s anatomy, concerns, expectations and overall suitability for surgery rather than age alone.
A consultation with a qualified specialist is therefore more useful than relying on a particular age as a guideline.
What is the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Although both procedures involve the eyelids, they address different anatomical areas.
Upper blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery generally focuses on excess skin and, where appropriate, other tissues affecting the appearance of the upper eyelid.
The incision is typically placed within the natural crease of the upper eyelid, allowing the resulting scar to be positioned in a relatively discreet location.
Lower blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid surgery addresses concerns affecting the area beneath the eyes, which may include prominent lower-eyelid fat compartments and changes in the skin and soft tissues.
The appropriate technique depends on the individual’s anatomy. In some cases, the surgeon may use an incision inside the lower eyelid, while other approaches may involve an incision close to the lower lash line.
For this reason, “eyelid surgery” is not one standard procedure. The surgical plan needs to be adapted to the person being treated.
Does blepharoplasty remove the tired look?
Blepharoplasty can address certain structural features that contribute to a tired-looking appearance, but it is important to have realistic expectations.
It cannot eliminate every cause of dark circles, puffiness or tired-looking eyes.
For example, pigmentation, skin quality, facial anatomy and other factors may contribute to the appearance of the eye area. A consultation can help determine which features are actually amenable to surgery.
The objective of a well-planned procedure is generally to create a more harmonious appearance while respecting the individual’s facial anatomy.
What is recovery like?
As with any surgical procedure, recovery varies between individuals.
Swelling and bruising around the eyes are common after blepharoplasty and gradually improve during recovery. The surgeon will provide specific instructions concerning wound care, physical activity, medication and follow-up appointments.
Returning to work and normal activities depends on the extent of surgery, the individual’s recovery and the nature of their daily activities.
It is therefore better to discuss an expected recovery period directly with the surgeon rather than assuming that everyone will heal at the same pace.
Is eyelid surgery suitable for everyone? No.
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure and requires an individual assessment. A consultation should take into account the condition of the eyelids, the surrounding facial structures, the person’s expectations and relevant medical history.
It is also important to distinguish cosmetic concerns from symptoms that could indicate an eye or other medical problem. Persistent changes in vision, significant swelling, pain or other unusual symptoms should be assessed medically rather than treated simply as an aesthetic concern.
Choosing a specialist
Because the eyelids are delicate structures and an important part of facial expression, choosing an appropriately qualified surgeon is an important part of the process.
Dr. Álvaro Yurrita offers blepharoplasty as part of his facial plastic surgery practice. His approach considers the individual anatomy of the upper and lower eyelids when determining the appropriate surgical technique.
For someone considering eyelid surgery, the next step is not necessarily deciding on a particular procedure. It is understanding what is causing the appearance they would like to change and discussing realistic options with a specialist.
Considering eyelid surgery?
If your eyes appear persistently tired despite adequate rest and you are wondering whether changes to the eyelids could be contributing, an individual consultation can help clarify your options.
Find out more about blepharoplasty, the differences between upper and lower eyelid surgery, and what an individual assessment involves with Dr. Álvaro Yurrita.
Learn more about Blepharoplasty with Dr. Álvaro Yurrita
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