Blepharoplasty Without Surgery: Does it Really Work?

Blepharoplasty: the surgery to rejuvenate your eyelids.

The “windows to your soul” have developed some curtains. As most skin does with age, your eyelid skin has decreased in elasticity, yielding loose, sagging eyelids. You feel that you look tired, and your friends tell you your eyes look sleepy. At this point, your droopy eyelid skin may even impair your vision. You’ve heard of blepharoplasty, but you’re unsure if it’s safe to have surgery near your eyes. What to do?

At this stage, many people still feel uncomfortable committing to surgery, seeking a non-surgical alternative instead. People start researching homemade solutions, skincare remedies, or cosmetic injectables. Prospects are always encouraged to opt for the procedure they feel most comfortable with; however, given the multitude of possible treatments, seeking the advice of an expert will ensure you are introduced to all options available for you. Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, NYC-based Dr. Konstantin, shares his expertise on eyelid rejuvenation treatments.

Why should one consider getting blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is the rejuvenation procedure for the eyelids. By cutting away excess skin, tightening the tissue around the eyes, and removing bags of fat, a blepharoplasty will brighten your eyes and make them look years younger. Cosmetically enhancing your eyelids will not only make you look less tired, but will also rejuvenate your overall appearance. Common causes for seeking blepharoplasty include:

• Upper eyelids: loose, folding skin; puffiness; impaired vision due to sagging skin
• Lower eyelids: bags; excessive wrinkles; sagging skin under the eyes

Before and after photos of one of Dr. Konstantin’s patients who underwent an upper and lower blepharoplasty, as well as an advanced facelift. Visit our gallery for more before and after photos.

Are there alternatives to blepharoplasty?

Beauty bloggers all over the Internet can point you to eyelid exercises, natural remedies (cucumbers, anyone?), and non-surgical eye lifts of all sorts. Unfortunately, many of these suggestions are made by non-professionals, and yield short-lived results with little to no substantial effects. While blepharoplasty is the most effective way to ensure long-lasting eyelid rejuvenation, it is not the only option to improve the appearance of the eyes. There are many ways to cosmetically enhance your eyelids with smaller costs and shorter downtimes.

Non-surgical eyelid treatments

For those who wish to have youthful eyelids for years to come, Dr. Konstantin recommends starting in your 20s and taking things step by step, beginning with the least invasive treatments first. Daily moisturizing, use of sunscreen, and application of serums and gentle peels can have a very positive long-term effect on the appearance of the eyelid skin. If this has been done but has not been as successful as desired in preventing eyelid aging, more invasive (although still non-surgical) procedures can be considered.

• Dermal fillers: injectable fillers Bellaterro or Volbella are two of the most commonly used fillers as alternatives to blepharoplasty. Use of these fillers will smooth out deep grooves and diminish the appearance of under-eye bags. Their effects will typically last for 1-2+ years, after which the treatment should be repeated. These injections can be completed within a short office visit and usually do not require significant downtime.
• BOTOX: the injection of BOTOX is a great option for those who wish to reduce the wrinkles in the corners of the eyes (crow’s feet). Injecting these neuromodulators can relax muscles around the eye, and, as a result, smooth out unwanted lines. The same injection can also help to elevate the eyebrows, thus lessening the appearance of the upper eyelid’s excess sagging skin. BOTOX should be re-injected every 4-6 months for the best results.
• Laser peels: also known as laser skin resurfacing, this technique uses laser energy to remove old skin and to promote regeneration of the skin cells, resulting in younger and smoother-looking eyelids. The frequency of how often lasers should be done varies depending on the type and strength of the treatment.

Before and after photos of one of Dr. Konstantin’s under-eye dermal filler patients.

With the appropriate selected treatment for individual patients, non-surgical solutions can, in many situations, help to avoid or postpone more costly and invasive surgical procedures. When used preventatively, homemade remedies can protect skin from aging effects in years to come. When dealing with advanced-aged skin, however, the results of a blepharoplasty are top-tier. Either way, patients will be directed toward the best treatment for their individual skin when consulting a skilled facial plastic surgeon. For direct advice from Dr. Konstantin on the best eyelid treatment for you, contact our Manhattan office today, where we will be happy to assist you.