Upper eyelid correction is one of the most frequently performed procedures at Blooming, and it is easy to understand why. As the skin around the eyes loses elasticity with age, excess skin accumulates on the upper eyelids, making eyes appear heavy and tired. Surgery to remove this excess skin is straightforward, highly effective, and delivers results that can last for many years. In this article, we explain what the procedure involves, how long the recovery takes, and when it may be eligible for reimbursement by Dutch health insurance. A refreshed, more youthful gaze awaits.
As we age, the skin loses its firmness. This includes the skin around the eyes. It can even happen that the skin of the upper eyelids has stretched so much that it begins to hang over the lashes, which can obstruct the vision. Sometimes this laxity is accompanied by protrusion of the fatty tissue from the eye socket. The skin is thereby pushed forward and starts to fold or form a bulge above the eye. The most common complaint is that one looks so tired as a result. This can be corrected with a minor procedure on the upper eyelid.
After a local anaesthetic injection, we remove the excess skin, muscle, and where necessary the surplus fatty tissue. The procedure is not demanding. Afterwards, the skin is cooled for a short while. You may then go home, but do not drive yourself.
After the procedure, we advise a few days of rest. Your eyelids may be tender, bruised, and swollen. It is wise to apply cooling at regular intervals at home, as this helps to relieve pain and swelling. The pain is usually so minimal that you will not need a painkiller. It is best to avoid bending and heavy lifting during the first week. Those who do not perform strenuous work can return to their activities after a few days, wearing sunglasses if necessary to conceal any bruising. After seven days, the subcutaneous suture is removed.
As the scar falls within the natural crease of the upper eyelid, it is virtually invisible. It is difficult to predict how long the effect will remain visible. A well-performed upper eyelid correction will give you lasting satisfaction. One thing is certain: the ageing process continues, but I sometimes see patients who are still very happy twenty years later. The procedure is occasionally covered by insurance, depending on the policy. There must, however, be a medical reason for this, such as a restricted field of vision.
For the few who are not yet ready or do not yet feel the need for an eyelid correction, here is a make-up tip: tweeze the eyebrows to mask a frowning appearance. Apply a dark, matt shade of eye shadow to the overhanging part and a lighter shade to the mobile eyelid.
Source: One of the Most Common Procedures: Upper Eyelid Correction – DA Magazine edition
Read the article from DA Magazine here.