Am I a Good Candidate for an Eyelid Lift?
Key Points:
- Blepharoplasty addresses drooping upper eyelids, under-eye bags, and other signs of eyelid aging.
- Ideal candidates are adults in good overall health, preferably non-smokers, with realistic expectations.
- Blepharoplasty can address both cosmetic concerns and functional issues such as obstructed peripheral vision.
- Dr. Overman evaluates eyelid skin quality, muscle and fat structure, facial anatomy, medical history, and previous treatments.
- Blepharoplasty is performed at Clearview Dermatology's Littleton (Dakota Ridge) office.
- Results typically last 10 to 15 years or longer.
If you have been noticing that your upper eyelids look heavier than they used to, or that you always seem tired no matter how much sleep you get, you are not alone. Eyelid aging is one of the most common concerns patients bring to Clearview Dermatology, and blepharoplasty, the medical term for an eyelid lift, is one of the most rewarding procedures Dr. Overman performs.
But is it right for you? That is a great question to ask before booking a consultation. This post walks through exactly what Dr. Overman looks for when evaluating blepharoplasty candidates, so you can go into your consultation with a clear picture of where you stand.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both. It works by removing excess skin where needed while preserving and repositioning fat into a more youthful placement. The result is a brighter, more alert eye area that looks refreshed rather than overdone.
Dr. Overman performs blepharoplasty at Clearview Dermatology's Littleton (Dakota Ridge) office. His extensive fellowship training in both facial plastic and oculoplastic surgery gives him a specialized depth of expertise in the delicate anatomy of the eye area.
Learn more: Blepharoplasty at Clearview Dermatology
Cosmetic Concerns and Functional Concerns
A blepharoplasty can lead to both functional and cosmetic improvements.
Cosmetic Concerns
Most patients come to Clearview because they are bothered by how their eyes look. Common cosmetic concerns that blepharoplasty can address include:
- Excess skin on the upper eyelids that creates a heavy, hooded appearance
- Loss of the eyelid crease definition
- Under-eye bags and puffiness
- Excess skin and fine lines on the lower eyelids
- Dark circles and shadowing under the eyes
- An overall tired or aged appearance around the eye area
Functional Concerns
Some patients have upper eyelids that sag severely enough to obstruct peripheral vision, making daily activities more difficult. When excess skin creates significant hooding over the eyes, blepharoplasty can improve both appearance and function at the same time.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Blepharoplasty?
According to Clearview Dermatology's blepharoplasty page, the best candidates share the following characteristics:
- Adults with realistic expectations. Blepharoplasty can make a meaningful difference in the appearance of your eye area, but results vary by individual. Understanding what the procedure can and cannot achieve is important before moving forward.
- Good overall health. Candidates should be in good general health. Certain medical conditions may affect candidacy or require clearance from another provider before surgery.
- Non-smokers, or willing to quit. Smoking affects healing and increases surgical risk. Dr. Overman strongly recommends smoking cessation before blepharoplasty.
- Specific eyelid concerns that surgery can address. The best outcomes come when there is a clear, surgical solution to the concern. Dr. Overman will evaluate whether blepharoplasty is the right tool for what you are experiencing.
- A clear understanding of the procedure and recovery. Being well-informed going into surgery leads to better outcomes and a smoother recovery.
What Does Dr. Overman Evaluate at Your Consultation?
During your consultation, Dr. Overman takes a detailed look at several factors to determine whether blepharoplasty is appropriate and what approach will give you the best result:
- Eyelid skin quality and elasticity. The condition of your skin plays a significant role in how well results hold over time.
- Underlying muscle and fat structure. The anatomy beneath the skin determines what techniques will be most effective, particularly for the lower eyelids.
- Overall facial anatomy and proportions. Blepharoplasty results should complement your overall facial appearance, not look isolated or out of place.
- Previous surgeries or treatments. Any prior work around the eye area is important context for surgical planning.
- Healing capacity and medical history. Your history helps the team anticipate how your body will respond and whether any precautions are needed.
Dr. Overman also discusses your aesthetic goals and expectations in detail. The consultation is a two-way conversation, and there are no pressure or sales tactics involved. If blepharoplasty is not the right fit, he will tell you that too.
Upper Blepharoplasty vs. Lower Blepharoplasty
Depending on your concerns, you may be a candidate for upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or both.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty is often the most dramatic because it opens up the entire eye area. It addresses heavy hooding, droopy eyelids, loss of crease definition, and that overall tired appearance. Incisions are placed along the natural eyelid crease so that once healed, scarring becomes virtually invisible.
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags, puffiness, excess skin, fine lines, and dark circles. Dr. Overman uses a transconjunctival approach for lower blepharoplasty, meaning the incision is made on the inside of the lower eyelid where it is not visible. This is a scarless procedure. Rather than removing lower eyelid fat, he repositions the fat pads into a more youthful position for natural, long-lasting results.
Combining Upper and Lower
Many patients benefit from treating both upper and lower eyelids at the same time. This combined approach creates the most harmonious results and is often more convenient than staging the procedures separately.
What If I Am Not Ready for Surgery?
If blepharoplasty is not the right fit right now, or if your concerns are more mild, Clearview offers non-surgical options that can improve the eye area without downtime. Botox and Dysport can soften dynamic wrinkles around the eyes, laser treatments can improve skin texture and tone, and dermal fillers can address volume loss. Dr. Overman can help you decide which approach makes the most sense for where you are today.
Learn more: Cosmetic services at Clearview Dermatology
How Long Do Results Last?
Blepharoplasty results typically last 10 to 15 years or longer, though natural aging continues after surgery. Many patients never need repeat surgery because the improvements are so long-lasting. Scars from upper blepharoplasty are placed within the natural eyelid crease where they fade to become nearly invisible within months. Lower eyelid scars are inside the eyelid and are not visible at all.
What Does Preparation for Blepharoplasty Look Like?
Once Dr. Overman determines you are a good candidate, there are several preparation steps in the weeks leading up to surgery:
- Medical clearance if required based on your health history
- Medication adjustments as directed by the team
- Smoking cessation if applicable
- A pre-operative eye exam arranged with a trusted colleague
- Arranging post-operative care, since you will not be able to drive immediately after surgery
On surgery day, local anesthesia with oral sedation is used to keep you comfortable and pain free throughout the procedure.
Frequently Asked
Questions About Blepharoplasty Candidacy
What age is best for blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is appropriate for adults at any age who have specific eyelid concerns that surgery can address. There is no single ideal age. What matters most is your anatomy, your health, and your goals.
Can blepharoplasty fix my vision?
Upper blepharoplasty can improve peripheral vision when severely drooping upper eyelids are causing obstruction. During your consultation, Dr. Overman will assess whether this is a factor for you.
Do I need to stop smoking before surgery?
Yes. Clearview Dermatology strongly recommends smoking cessation before blepharoplasty. Smoking affects healing and increases surgical risk.
Can blepharoplasty be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Blepharoplasty works well as part of a broader facial rejuvenation plan. It is often combined with anti-aging treatments, laser treatments, Botox, or other cosmetic dermatology services for the most comprehensive result.
Will I need a consultation before I can schedule surgery?
Yes. Your blepharoplasty journey begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Overman. He will examine your eyelid anatomy, review your medical history, discuss your goals, and confirm that blepharoplasty is the right approach for you.
How long do blepharoplasty results last?
Results typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Many patients never need repeat surgery.
Frequently Asked
Questions About Blepharoplasty Candidacy
Who performs blepharoplasty at Clearview Dermatology?
Dr. Joe Overman performs all blepharoplasty procedures at Clearview Dermatology. Dr. Overman is a double board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs and reconstructive surgeon. His fellowship included oculoplastic surgery training, which gives him a specialized expertise in the eye area.
Where is blepharoplasty performed?
Blepharoplasty is performed at Clearview Dermatology's Littleton (Dakota Ridge) location at 13402 W Coal Mine Ave, Suite 360, Littleton, CO 80127.
Does Clearview Dermatology offer non-surgical eye treatments as well?
Yes. Clearview offers Botox and Dysport, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and other cosmetic services that can improve the eye area without surgery. Dr. Overman can help determine which option is the best fit for your goals.
How do I schedule a blepharoplasty consultation?
Call our office today to speak with an associate who can get you scheduled!
Part of the Clearview Dermatology Cosmetic Surgery series. See also: What Cosmetic Surgeries Does Clearview Dermatology Offer?
Visit Clearview Dermatology
Candelas (Arvada): 14789 W 87th Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80005 | (720) 797-9184
Bergen Park (Evergreen): 32135 Castle Court, Suite 202, Evergreen, CO 80439 | (720) 694-8550
Dakota Ridge (Littleton): 13402 W Coal Mine Ave, Suite 360, Littleton, CO 80127 | (720) 909-8154
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be considered, medical advice. All information, content, and material available on this blog are for general informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author and the blog disclaim any liability for the decisions you make based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
