Blepharoplasty: when to pay attention to the area around the eyes

Every year, more and more patients turn to plastic surgeons with one specific request: to remove tired-looking eyes and/or bags under the eyes. In today's world, where first impressions are often based on a well-groomed appearance, an open, fresh area around the eyes is one of the key markers of youth, energy, and confidence.

Changes in the eyelid area are often the first signs of facial aging. Excess skin, puffiness, drooping outer corners of the eyes, or deep shadows under the eyes create an expression that patients describe as “tired,” “gloomy,” or “heavy.”

This is not always related to advanced age: such changes can appear after the age of 30, and sometimes even earlier, depending on anatomy, lifestyle, and heredity.

In such cases, blepharoplasty is a completely justified and effective way to solve all these problems.

What is blepharoplasty?

It is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the upper eyelids, eliminates fat hernias or puffiness, smoothes the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek area, visually “opens” the eyes without radical changes, etc.

Blepharoplasty can be upper, lower, or combined—the choice depends on the patient's needs and anatomical features. In most cases, it is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia or short-term anesthesia.

- Upper blepharoplasty involves removing excess skin (and sometimes fatty tissue) from the upper eyelids. As a result, the eyes appear more open and lighter, and the eyelids themselves appear more defined.

- Lower blepharoplasty involves working on the area under the eyes: removing or moving fat, tightening the skin, and smoothing the nasolabial folds. It is often combined with minimally invasive procedures such as lipofilling or laser resurfacing to achieve the most natural result.

- Circular blepharoplasty is a combination of both methods for significant age-related changes in the area around the patient's eyes.

When is blepharoplasty indicated?

Absolute indications for surgery are pronounced ptosis of the upper eyelids, puffiness or bags under the eyes, drooping of the outer edge of the eye, causing significant aesthetic or functional discomfort.

The patient's desire to improve their appearance and make their eyes look more open and fresh are relative indications for surgery.

A modern approach: naturalness and delicacy

In my practice, I adhere to the principle of maximum effectiveness with minimal intervention. All manipulations are performed taking into account the anatomical features of the patient — that is why modern blepharoplasty does not change the shape of the eyes, does not leave scars, and does not lead to tight skin or an unnatural appearance of the face.

As a rule, the postoperative period lasts 7–10 days. During this time, moderate swelling, bruising, and slight discomfort are normal reactions that quickly pass if you follow all of your doctor's recommendations.

Why blepharoplasty is relevant after the age of 30

Many people are surprised to hear that the average age for seeking plastic surgery is not 50+, but 30–40. Indeed, many middle-aged patients are well informed about modern technologies for improving their appearance that can emphasize their natural beauty. When age-related changes are just beginning to appear or are minor, they are easily corrected.

Such patients want to maintain a youthful and natural appearance for as long as possible and look attractive even with a busy lifestyle that does not always allow for sufficient sleep and rest.

In general, I believe that there is no “right” age for blepharoplasty — there is only the right moment in your life. If your eyes look heavy and tired, and makeup “disappears” in the folds of your eyelids, this is a reason to consult a plastic surgeon who specializes in such plastic surgery.

Blepharoplasty is a precise, minimally invasive procedure that significantly improves your appearance and self-esteem. There are no “minor” details in the eye area, which is why, when done correctly, the result does not look like surgery, but like a refreshed face after a long rest.

If you are bothered by a “tired” look or want to look more in line with how you feel, we can determine whether blepharoplasty is the right solution for you during a professional consultation.