Blepharoplasty scars tend to be barely noticeable. Perhaps surprisingly, the delicate eyelid skin we all have on this area of the face tends to help incisions heal quite well. Therefore, incision sites and healed blepharoplasty scars are typically only noticeable to people who know what to look for.
Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery Scars
Before we can discuss the specifics of upper and lower eyelid surgery scars, it’s important to differentiate between the two types of surgery.
Upper blepharoplasty (upper eyelid surgery) tends to be more popular when compared with lower blepharoplasty (lower eyelid surgery). Still, both procedures aim to do basically the same thing: reduce excess upper eyelid skin, excess fat, and loose muscle from the eye area.
Upper Eyelid Surgery and Scars
Upper eyelid surgery focuses on loose skin on the upper eyelids. Loose and wrinkly skin on this area of the face can cause individuals to look tired, haggard, and older than they actually are. This can lead them to feel self conscious about their appearance.
Furthermore, sagging upper eyelids can also cause vision problems. That is, the heaviness of the upper lids can make it difficult for patients to completely open their eyes and enjoy a full field of vision.
To correct droopy eyelids, plastic surgeons make one small incision within each natural eyelid crease. They use this incision to access the underlying muscles and tighten or reposition them. They can also remove excess skin and fat. To end the surgery, very fine sutures are used to close up the incisions.
Once they heal, upper eyelid scars are virtually invisible when your eyes are open (which is, of course, most of the time!) because the incision lines will be made within the eye crease.
Lower Eyelid Surgery and Scars
Lower eyelid surgery focuses on excess skin and excess fat on the lower eyelid and under eye area. Naturally, the lower eyelid is smaller than the upper eyelid. But patients can sometimes still experience fat bags in the under eye area as well as wrinkly, loose skin.
Incisions for lower eyelid surgery can sometimes be made inside the eyelid but are often made just below the lash line. Either way, these incisions should heal to fine faded lines that are difficult to see with the naked eye.
What if You End Up With Bad Blepharoplasty Scars?
Very visible scarring after eyelid surgery is uncommon. Once the healing process has concluded, this cosmetic procedure has a high rate of success in terms of minimal scarring or scarring that is virtually invisible.
This rings true whether you undergo upper eyelid surgery for sagging lids, lower blepharoplasty for excess fat in the undereye area, Asian blepharoplasty surgery, or any other type of blepharoplasty. It is also especially true when you choose an experienced board-certified cosmetic surgeon.
Botched Eyelid Surgery Scars
Botched Eyelid Surgery ScarsBut what about those rare occasions when a patient ends up with a botched eyelid surgery? What can go wrong with eyelid surgery?
In rare cases, eyelid surgeries don’t go as planned. Whether it’s visible scars, remaining excess skin and fat, too much skin removed, excess scar tissue, poor wound healing, or lumpy scars after blepharoplasty, no one wants to end up with bad results.
If this does occur, however, you do have options. First, you should meet with your original surgeon in most cases to see if they have any suggestions to minimize scarring further and correct the main issue. They may know exactly what went wrong and might offer a free or discounted revision procedure to correct the problem.
In the event that you feel uncomfortable returning to the original plastic surgeon who performed your first blepharoplasty, you are, of course, free to move on to another board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in eyelid surgery revision. Just be sure to review their credentials, patient testimonials, and eyelid surgery before and after photos thoroughly.
FAQ: Blepharoplasty Surgery & Scars
How much does blepharoplasty cost?
Patients interested in learning the estimated cost of their eyelid surgery should set up a consultation appointment first and foremost. Blepharoplasty cost varies based on numerous factors, and your surgeon will want to meet with you in person.
Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty?
If you want to know how to qualify for eyelid surgery, be sure to ask your plastic surgeon directly. Ideal patients should want to improve the appearance of their eyes, specifically the upper or lower eyelids due to sagging or excess fat pockets. You should be in good physical health without major health concerns.
Will people notice I had blepharoplasty?
After blepharoplasty, people will likely notice a more refreshed and youthful look but won’t necessarily pinpoint surgery as the cause. The subtle, natural improvements often lead to compliments about looking well-rested, allowing you to enjoy the positive effects of your decision without drawing attention to the procedure itself.
How long does it take for blepharoplasty scars to fade?
It’s important to understand that scars from blepharoplasty can take time to fully fade. For most patients, scars become less noticeable and mature over a period of 6 months to a year, depending on individual healing factors. Patience and proper aftercare can help minimize their appearance.
How can I minimize scarring after blepharoplasty?
To help scars heal and reduce their visibility, consider using silicone gel or sheets. Protect your scars by applying sunscreen with a high SPF. Keep your head elevated while sleeping to reduce swelling. Eating a nutrient-rich diet, especially foods high in vitamin C and zinc, can support the healing process.
How to choose the right surgeon for blepharoplasty?
How to choose the right surgeon for blepharoplasty?To choose the right blepharoplasty surgeon, make sure they are board-certified with experience in eyelid surgery. Check patient reviews, before-and-after photos, and ensure the surgery is done in an accredited facility with proper aftercare.
Will my blepharoplasty scar be visible when my eyes are open?
Regarding scarring, your upper and lower blepharoplasty scars should be hard to notice, especially when your eyes are open. The skin will become more flexible, and the scar lines should be fading, blending seamlessly with the surrounding skin.
What are the risks of having noticeable scars after eyelid surgery?
The risks of having noticeable scars after eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) include poor healing, infection, excessive scarring (hypertrophic or keloid scars), or improper incision placement. Factors such as skin type, age, smoking, and following post-surgical care instructions can influence the visibility of scars.
Book Your Consultation Appointment Today
They say the eyes are the gateway to the soul, which makes improving your eye appearance with cosmetic surgery even more important when needed. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg can reduce your excess eyelid skin and fat and adjust the muscles surrounding your eyes for a more alert and youthful appearance.
To learn more about undergoing eyelid lift surgery with Dr. Steinberg, please give our office a call and schedule a consultation appointment today.
