Eyelid Surgery
As early as the late 20s, crows feet or smile lines begin to etch themselves into the thin skin around the eyes. Dark circles and puffy bags under the eyes often come next. In the 30s and 40s, many people notice a hooding of the upper eyelids. In the 40s and beyond, extra skin folds form on the eyelids and underneath the eyes. A heavy groove begins to form between the bottom of your eye and your cheek (the "tear trough"). Makeup application becomes difficult. You look worn out and sad, even when you feel energetic and happy.
Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgery that can revitalize the eyes and help to give a more rested, youthful appearance. There are several procedures that can be performed in combination with or as an alternative to eyelid surgery - Botox, fillers, skin resurfacing, and midface lifting. Dr. Umstattd customizes the approach to eyelid treatment to meet the patient's individual anatomy and goals.
Common Treatments
Upper Eyelid Sagging
To correct the upper eyelids, fine incisions are hidden in the crease above each eye, so that after surgery, the scar is almost imperceptible and camouflaged in the normal eye fold. Excess skin and any bulging fatty tissue is removed. If the vertical height of the eyelid needs adjusted, it can be done concurrently.
Lower Eyelid Bags
To correct bags and puffiness of the lower eyelids, Dr. Umstattd places incisions inside the eyelid, so there are no visible scars. There are three fatty tissue compartments of the lower eyelid and each of these are addressed to achieve a smooth, youthful appearance. If loose skin under the eyes is part of the problem, this is addressed with an incision in the natural crease under the eyelashes.
Dark Circles
The eyelid skin is the thinnest skin in the body and unfortunately, most over the counter eye creams contain no ingredients with proven medical efficacy. Dark undereye circles can be addressed with a combination approach of surgery, filler, and/or medical-grade skin care depending on the patient's appearance, age, and overall goals.
Tear Trough Correction
The hollow that forms beneath the eye at the lower eyelid-cheek junction is referred to as the "tear trough." It can be addressed with surgery, filler, or a combination of both depending on the patient's appearance and objectives.