Eyelid surgery myths debunked

Eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat and sometimes muscle from the upper or lower eyelids. The goal of the procedure is to correct droopy eyelids, puffiness and wrinkles, making the face look younger and fresher. There are two main types of eyelid surgery: upper eyelid surgery and lower eyelid surgery. Despite the popularity of eyelid surgery, many myths still exist.

Myth #1 Eyelid surgery is only for cosmetic purposes

Although many people undergo eyelid surgery for aesthetic reasons, such as reducing puffiness or drooping eyelids, the procedure can also have functional benefits. With upper eyelid surgery, excess skin can obstruct the field of vision, making driving, reading and other daily activities difficult. This can be remedied with the procedure, and in this case, the procedure is functional.

Myth #2 Eyelid surgery is painful

Many people think eyelid surgery is painful, but this is usually not the case. Prior to the procedure, local anesthetic cream is applied to the eyelids. The anesthetic cream serves as a pre-anesthetic before the actual local anesthetic. With this, the eyelids are completely numb, meaning the patient feels little to no pain during the procedure. After surgery, there may be some swelling and discomfort, but this is usually mild and short-lived.

Myth #3 Lower eyelid surgery is only for people with severe puffiness

Some people think that lower eyelid surgery is only useful for people with extremely puffy puffiness. In reality, the procedure can also be performed on people who have mild puffiness or sagging skin. A fresher and more youthful appearance can be achieved with the procedure.

Myth #4Eye lid surgery is only for older people

Although most patients are older, younger people can also have problems such as genetic predisposition to drooping eyelids. This can cause a tired or aged appearance at any age, which is why eyelid surgery can make sense even at younger ages. A lower eyelid correction is also not necessarily recommended at a younger age. This is because the skin often has fewer to no wrinkles, so a scar will always be slightly visible and does not disappear into the skin fold as with an upper eyelid correction.

Myth #5 The results are always perfectly symmetrical

Although surgeons strive for symmetry, it is important to know that no face is perfectly symmetrical. Minor asymmetry is normal, both before and after surgery. However, an experienced surgeon will try to maintain the natural balance of the face.

Myth #6 A lower eyelid surgery always removes dark circles

While lower eyelid surgery can help remove fatty deposits that cause puffiness, it is not always a solution for dark circles. Dark circles can have multiple causes, such as pigmentation or thin skin. In such cases, additional treatments such as laser therapy or fillers may be necessary.

Myth #7 Recovery takes a long time

Although recovery can take some time, it is often shorter than many people think. Most patients can return to work or resume daily activities within one to two weeks. There may be some swelling and blueness, but this usually disappears after a few days to a week. Of course, the scar is still visibly present. The scar often reaches its peak at three months after surgery. During this period, the scar is most red/pink, after this it diminishes and the scar continues to fade.

Myth #8 Eyelid surgery affects eye shape

A properly performed eyelid surgery is designed to make subtle improvements without altering the natural appearance of the face. The goal is to give a fresher, more rested and younger appearance without drastic changes to your face.

Myth #9 The results are permanent

Eyelid surgery gives long-lasting results. However, the natural aging of the skin continues, meaning that some sagging may return over time. The area will usually look improved for a long time, and the results can last for years.

Myth #10 It is a risky procedure

Eyelid surgery is one of the most common cosmetic procedures. Although any surgical procedure carries risks, eyelid surgery is generally considered relatively safe procedures. Results can be seen quickly and the risk of complications is low when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon.

Conclusion

Eyelid surgery is a safe and effective way to address both aesthetic and functional issues around the eyes. The procedure offers long-term results with minimal recovery time and subtle changes, making you look fresher and younger without a drastic change to your face. As with any surgery, it is important to have realistic expectations and be well informed by a qualified surgeon.