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Aesthetic Medicine Dubai | 8 February 2020

J-Plasma Renuvion is a minimally invasive medical spa treatment that provides an effective alternative to facelift surgery as well as many other face, chin, body, and neck skin tightening procedures.

J-Plasma causes the superficial skin layer to peel away delicately. A new layer of fresh, tighter, and more youthful skin emerges in the treated site. Patients who are concerned with the appearance of crow’s feet around the eyes will find this revolutionary treatment to be highly beneficial.

The patient undergoes the J-Plasma Renuvion skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatment under local anaesthesia. This makes it a safe and comfortable procedure for the patient.

It is an ideal solution for individuals considering a reduction in the appearance of crow’s feet as well as facial revitalization in a non-surgical manner. This procedure is also suitable for people who have received facial surgery in the past and now want to improve the appearance of fine lines and age spots on the skin.

J-Plasma Benefits

Non-Surgical

J-Plasma Renuvion does not involve surgery. Therefore, it does not lead to the pain and risks commonly associated with cosmetic surgeries. Furthermore, it does not cause scarring, other than if it is administered on the undersurface of the skin. The incision scars are minimal even in the case of a subdermal treatment.

Significant Results

J-Plasma Renuvion before and after pictures display significant improvements. Despite being a nonsurgical procedure, it effectively mitigates signs of facial aging such as crow’s feet.

Brief Procedure

J-Plasma is, at times, promoted as the “the one hour facelift.” However, this medical procedure is usually complete in under 45 minutes.

One Treatment Sessions Only

Patients typically require a single J-Plasma session to attain desirable outcomes. This differentiates it from various other available nonsurgical procedures. However, some individuals may have to undergo more than one J-Plasma Renuvion treatment.

J Plasma Procedure

While J-Plasma is a skin resurfacing procedure, it delivers the ionized energy to the superficial skin layer. This enables the skin to peel away to reveal a brighter and more youthful skin layer. J-Plasma reduces skin discoloration, improves texture, constricts pores, mitigates deep and fine lines, and tightens sagging skin. When applied underneath the skin, J-Plasma is a robust tightening procedure. The treatment provider applies ionized helium gas to the skin in a manner reminiscent of using a precise paintbrush. This offers highly targeted “cool plasma” delivery. This attribute helps treat the skin from the outside causing skin peeling and contracting, or pure tightening if used subdermally.

The J-Plasma procedure does not involve any major discomfort and is performed using local anesthesia. In addition, the patient may be prescribed pain medications and other solutions to help reduce the discomfort. In general, if the entire area undergoes J-Plasma treatment, the provider will use an extra pass to enhance the skin tightening.

Effective In-Clinic Procedure

J-Plasma is comfortable in-office procedure that typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes to complete. It involves minimal pain can efficiently mitigate signs of aging such as crow’s feet around the eyes.

Fillers in Dubai | 7 February 2020

Although no one likes the thought of aging, we can be thankful that we are living in this modern age when there are more facial cosmetic procedures than ever before to aid in the battle against time. Injectable fillers are not only effective, they are a completely safe method of rejuvenating the face. Even in the past 10 years, there have been advancements in the science of fillers, and my clinic offers several different approved brands. The most popular are Juvéderm, Profhilo, Restylane, Radiesse, Teosyal and Neauvia. The area of the face that requires filling determines the type of filler that he chooses. Some fillers have a thicker consistency than others and are more suited to areas where more substance is needed to achieve the desired lift. It is possible to fill nasolabial folds (lines between the nose and mouth), cheekbones, noses, chins, tear troughs, jowls, and lips.

CONTOURING AND REFINING FEATURES

When injected by an experienced professional, fillers also have the ability to contour and refine features. Lips can be augmented to reduce the lines that appear with aging, and small noses can be enlarged so that they balance nicely with other facial features. A flat chin can be injected with filler to provide a symmetrical profile. Fillers can provide a straighter nose for people who have a hump in the middle. Cheek bones can be injected to provide a natural-looking lift to the face. Although amazing results can be achieved with injectable fillers, it is the artist in control of the needle who determines the final outcome. It takes artistry, not just a licence, to sculpt the face in perfect harmony and proportions.

Not only can fillers be injected in a short period of time, but there is also little discomfort for the patient. Local anaesthetic is administered prior to the injections, and some brands even have the anaesthetic combined with the filler. Slight swelling or redness at the injection site may be experienced, but this is minimal, eliminating the need to take a few days off of work to heal. Another major benefit of injectable fillers is that they are affordable. Great results can be accomplished without breaking your pocket book.

THINGS TO KNOW IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING DERMAL FILLERS

Whether you are considering getting dermal fillers to smooth out wrinkles or enhance facial contours, a quick look at some criteria and facts will help you know you have come to the right place for your treatment.

Dermal fillers should be injected only by an experienced and qualified medical doctor. This procedure requires qualifications, experience, and an artistic edge, because 90% of the success of cosmetic procedures depends on who is doing them. For example, a bad haircut would indicate the level of experience of the stylist, not the scissors that were used. This is why it is extremely important to inquire about the credentials of your practitioner and ask to see before and after pictures. Getting a consultation first is advisable, as you would get a chance to see my facility and raise your questions or concerns with me.

YOUR EXPECTATIONS

Bringing a picture of your younger self to your appointment is helpful. However, bringing a picture of your favorite celebrity is not conducive. While you may see one aspect or feature of your face, it is important to know that a face has to be analysed in whole and not in part. The aim of the injectable procedure is to look naturally enhanced. It is also important to understand that each face has its own asymmetry. A good doctor can help bring more symmetry while keeping the overall aesthetics of the face visually pleasing. So make the most of your consultation by being open to recommendations. Your doctor sees in three dimensions, and you would benefit from exploring all your options.

THE ACTUAL PRODUCT

There are many types of dermal fillers on the market. But the most common of them are hyaluronic acid (HA) products. They have proven to produce natural and lasting results while maintaining fluidity to move with facial expressions. This line of dermal fillers also incorporates antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to deliver further treatment benefits while filling and contouring the face.

HOW LONG THE RESULTS WILL LAST

Hyaluronic acid in dermal fillers also naturally occurs in the body and therefore gets metabolized eventually. Depending on the dermal filler chosen and whether or not this is the first time you are having a filler injected, you can expect results to last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. If for some reason you are not satisfied with the results, which is very rare, HA fillers are also dissolvable at your request by injecting an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE AND AFTER THE INJECTION

It is always best to schedule your injectable appointments a couple of days to a week prior to any major event. With dermal filler injections, you will also need to take bruising and swelling into account. You can reduce this likelihood by stopping any supplements that can act like blood thinners such as fish oil and also some pain killers such as Aspirin, Aleve, Advil, etc., 2 weeks prior to your appointment.

After your dermal fillers treatment, follow the post-care instructions given, which include applying cold compresses, avoiding extremely cold or hot drinks, sun exposure, extreme temperatures, excess facial mimicry, and vigorous exercises. Being gentle is key.

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 6 February 2020

Eyelid surgery, also known as a blepharoplasty, is a common cosmetic surgical procedure that can improve the appearance of drooping or sagging eyelids. It can also relieve any issues caused by excess skin around the eyes. It’s a relatively simple and minor procedure, but many people are understandably nervous about having surgery near their eyes.

Specialising in all aspects of cosmetic and reconstructive eye surgery, Dr. Vigo is perfectly placed to explain everything you need to know about having a blepharoplasty.

As we age, the skin around our eyes and eyelids can become droopy or saggy. This causes eye bags or hooded, heavy eyes. Some people also have pockets of excess fat around their eyes that can lead to the same tired looking, droopy eyelids.

Excess skin around the eyes can also be caused by long term allergies or infections stretching the skin, or by smoking or being exposed to the sun for long periods of time. Sometimes, this excess skin can be heavy, making it difficult to open the eyes, which can affect the vision. Other times, some people simply don’t like the look of their droopy eyelids. Either way, surgery to remove excess skin or fat from the eyelids, called a blepharoplasty, can help, either medically, cosmetically, or both.

A blepharoplasty can be carried out under a local anaesthetic alongside a sedation. This means that your eyelids will be numbed and although you’ll be awake, you’ll feel relaxed and drowsy. It can also be carried out under a general anaesthetic where you’re asleep for the whole procedure. You’ll be able to discuss your options at your pre-operative assessment. Most of the time, you’ll be able to return home on the same day as your surgery.

What does eyelid surgery involve?

Depending on whether you’re having upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery or both, a blepharoplasty involves Dr. Vigo removing the excess tissue that is making your eyelids appear heavy, tired or droopy.

What is upper eyelid surgery?

An upper blepharoplasty is carried out on the upper eyelids to help improve the tone and tightness of the skin between the eyebrows and the upper eyelashes. It will help to minimise excess skin that can cause the upper lids to appear heavy and creased. Dr. Vigo will make an incision in the skin of the upper eyelid where the skin naturally creases, to minimise scarring.

They will then remove the excess tissue that is causing the heavy eyelids (this can be fat, muscle or excess skin) before closing the incision using small stitches. These stitches are designed to dissolve or fall out over the weeks following surgery.

Upper eyelid surgery usually takes around an hour.

What is lower eyelid surgery?

A lower blepharoplasty is carried out on the lower eyelids to help correct loose, drooping skin and eye bags between the lower eyelashes and the tops of the cheeks. It can also help to correct darker, crepey skin and puffiness under the eyes. With lower lid surgery, Dr. Vigo will make an incision either just inside the lower lid or just below the lower lash line. Then they will remove the loose, crepey skin and fatty tissue that is causing the lower eyelids to droop and appear heavy. You may then have dissolvable stitches or suture strips to close the incision. If you have suture strips, these will be removed by your surgical team around a week later. Lower eyelid surgery usually takes longer than surgery to the upper eyelid and can take up to two hours.

What is the recovery time after eyelid surgery?

After surgery, you will be given pain relief medications to use once the anaesthetic wears off, and you may have eye pads on for a short while to help minimise bruising. Your eye area, depending on whether you’ve had upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery or both, will feel tender, swollen and bruised in the days after surgery. Your eyes may also feel dry. You will be given full instructions to follow on how to clean and care for your eyes in the weeks that follow surgery. Your surgeon may also give you antibiotic cream to use to help prevent an infection developing while your wounds heal. The swelling and bruising will normally settle down after a week, but it may take up to six months for the full benefits of eyelid surgery to be noticeable. You will normally need around a week off work and normal duties to recover from eyelid surgery. You should also refrain from driving for a few days or for as long as your surgeon has recommended.

Tips for eyelid surgery recovery

The following tips will help you recover successfully:

When resting, use more pillows than normal to keep your head in an upright position to help minimise swelling

Use a cold pack on your eyes, if Dr. Vigo has said this is advisable

Wear wraparound sunglasses when outside to avoid irritation from strong sunlight, winds, dust or dirt

Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with any pain

Follow the advice of your surgeon on cleaning your eyes and what ointments and/or drops to use

Avoid wearing contact lenses, swimming, doing anything that might cause you to sweat, and avoid smoking for at least a week or for as long as your surgeon has recommended

Side effects to watch out for

It’s completely normal for your eyes to feel swollen and bruised for a week or so after eyelid surgery. Your wounds may even bleed a little.

Potential risks of eyelid surgery include:

Swelling of the eyeball

Dry eyes

Numb eyes

Watery eyes

Difficulty closing your eyes

A feeling of grittiness in the eyes

Temporary, slightly blurred vision

If you have any of the following problems, then seek medical attention from your medical team:

Severe eye pain

Any signs of infection including:

Oozing

Severe bleeding or swelling

The area around the eye feels hot to the touch

Blurred vision that is getting worse

Double vision

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 5 February 2020

Blepharoplasty, more commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids. Eyelid surgery can reduce overall bagginess from the lower eyelids as well as improve sight for those whose sagging upper eyelids impair their vision. There are several reasons to consider eyelid surgery. Below we share the most common reasons why many consider blepharoplasty to improve themselves medically and aesthetically.

Cosmetic Benefits- The areas surrounding the eyes are often the first to show noticeable signs of facial aging. Even for those who practice a consistent and healthy skincare routine, sometimes this is not enough to prevent excess skin and sag around the eyes. Eyelid surgery is an effective way to address those concerns and give you a more youthful, refreshed look. This procedure can reduce the excess skin and “bagginess” around the eyes, lessen overall puffy appearance, smooth and firm the skin around the eyes and leave the patient with a rested and vibrant look.

Fast Recovery – Fortunately, eyelid tissue tends to heal very well with little scarring. In fact, your skin begins to heal the moment your plastic surgeon completes the procedure. Due to the minimally invasive nature of this surgery, it generally only requires a local anesthetic and patients remain conscious throughout the procedure. In addition, the incisions made on the eyelid are minimal and in most cases the incision site is concealed by the natural creases of the skin and is faint enough that it does not diminish from the overall result. Recovery time following blepharoplasty typically only requires two weeks to heal.

Long-lasting Results – The results of the surgery will fully appear within several weeks and will correct the issue permanently. It is still important to practice healthy skin habits such as moisturizing and consistently using sun protection. This procedure requires no maintenance or upkeep and is only performed once on a patient.

Overall, there are many common reasons to consider eyelid surgery. We are excited to improve lives and restore our patients’ youthful glow.

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 4 February 2020

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, may be performed on the upper eyelid, lower eyelid or both lids at the same time. Most of the procedures are done on an outpatient basis, often using a local anesthesia with sedation. Eyelid surgery may be performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Check out just a few of the many benefits eyelid surgery might offer.

Fewer Fine Lines – While this is not the primary goal of eyelid surgery for most patients, many see a significant improvement in those early, telltale signs of aging. Lifting both the upper and lower lid can reduce the number of lines seen around the outer corners and lower lid of the eye. To enhance these results, consider a skin rejuvenation treatment like a chemical peel that will provide additional smoothing for those eye creases.

No More Bags – Bags below the eye can give you a fatigued appearance even if you are getting sufficient shut-eye. A lower eyelid lift can remove those baggy areas by eliminating excess skin and tissue below the eye. In some cases, we may even be able to improve the appearance of dark circles under the eye, particularly if a cosmetic treatment like a peel or medical facial is combined with the surgical procedure.

Improved Vision – When you have significant heaviness drooping of the upper lid, it can be more than a cosmetic concern. Those Extra deposits of skin and tissue on the lid or drooping of the eyebrow can also impair your line of vision. By removing those deposits and subtly lifting the brow upper lid, we can also expand your line of sight. Some patients even note greater comfort in the forehead area because brow muscles are not being constantly used to raise the upper lid for improved vision.

A Refreshed Appearance – Blepharoplasty is one of the most effective ways to give your entire face a refreshed appearance. The procedure also enhances the shape and appearance of your eyes specifically. Whether you undergo eyelid surgery alone or in combination with other surgical or cosmetic procedures, you are likely to see dramatic results after your procedure. That rejuvenated appearance can also go far in improving your self-confidence and your self-esteem.

If you decide eyelid surgery is the right choice for you, it is imperative to choose an experienced plastic surgeon to ensure the best possible results. Dr. Vigo is a seasoned plastic surgeon that has performed numerous blepharoplasties throughout his many years of work. He will tailor your procedure to your specific needs and desired outcome.

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 3 February 2020

Some of the first and most visible signs of aging often occur in the areas of the upper eyelids. As the skin of these areas becomes susceptible to fat deposits and the muscles begin to weaken, a look of anger, sadness, or exhaustion can set in – even when you are not feeling those emotions. In fact, the skin of the upper eyelids can become so heavy that it droops over the eyes and, in some cases, obstructs vision. Fortunately, upper eyelid surgery (also known as upper eyelid lift) from Dr. Vigo can address these concerns and create a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

Upper eyelid surgery offers a variety of both aesthetic and functional benefits, including:

Removal of excess skin along the upper eyelids

Firming and tightening of inelastic skin and lax muscles

Removal of fat bulges over the eyes

Lifting of heavy, drooping skin for improved vision

Eyelid surgery is a very popular procedure and has helped both men and women enhance their appearance and eliminate visual obstruction caused by excess skin among the upper eyelids.

You can learn more about eyelid surgery and view before-and-after images of this advanced treatment with Dr. Vigo. If you have questions about eyelid surgery, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to determine whether this option is right for your needs, please contact us today.

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 1 February 2020

An Upper Eyelid Lift or Upper Blepharoplasty is a specialist eyelid surgery procedure that removes the folds of loose skin and bulges of protruding fat which sit over the upper eyelids, to produce a less-tired and more youthful appearance. As a result of the downward pull of gravity and loss of elasticity in the skin, the skin and muscles around the eye weaken and stretch resulting in an accumulation of loose skin and protrusion of fat resulting in “eye-bags” or a hooded appearance of the upper eyelid skin. This trait may run in families and may be accelerated by the effects of smoking, sun-exposure and weight-loss.

Upper Eyelid Lifts are done by means of an Upper Blepharoplasty. An Upper Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure carried out, under local anaesthetic.

What is the process for Upper Blepharoplasty?

The incision lines (and scars) run in the natural crease of the upper eyelid. These incisions are extended a little way into the crow’s feet or laughter lines at the corner of the eyes. Through this incision surplus fat is removed and excess skin and sagging muscle removed. Eyelid scars fade with time and are normally barely visible after some months.

There will be no improvement in folds of skin below the eye socket. If the folds of skin on the upper eyelid are due to drooping of the eyebrow, then a brow-lift, together with an upper blepharoplasty, may be recommended.

After surgery patients are able to go home the same day. Bruising lasts about one week and we would recommend a return to work after the bruising and swelling has subsided. The sutures are usually removed after 7 days and soon after you will be able to use make-up.

Before surgery you should avoid taking tablets containing aspirin and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for at least two weeks before surgery as they increase the risk of bleeding.

All surgery, including cosmetic surgery, runs the risk of complications. For some types of eyelid surgery there is a tiny risk of blindness. These and all aspects of the surgery including cost will be discussed with you during your consultation.

The consultation

At your consultation, Dr. Vigo will examine your eyes to ensure that you are suitable for treatment, discuss the procedure and talk through your expectations after treatment.

After the procedure

Following your surgical procedure you will be provided with detailed aftercare information and you will be asked to attend a review appointment approximately 7 days later with your surgeon to assess the healing and to remove your sutures.

Blepharoplasty Dubai

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 1 February 2020

The lower eyelids are one of the first areas of your face to show signs of aging. The eyelid skin is extremely thin and susceptible to the forces of gravity, genetics, and sun damage. In youth, we have a smooth youthful contour from the lower lash line to the cheeks. As we age, this smooth transition from the lower eyelashes to the upper cheeks gives way to hills and valleys. Fatty bags may appear and bulge. The cheeks also age and descend, exposing the bony rim of our eyes, creating a hollowed, skeletonized appearance to your face. In lower blepharoplasty –also known as lower eyelid surgery– excess skin and fat may be removed and/or repositioned around your eyes to create a natural, more awake, more vibrant appearance without changing your face’s shape.

It has been said that the eyes are the windows to our souls. Our eyes are the defining features of our face and shape our interactions with others. For these reasons, blepharoplasty is an extremely popular procedure. With the advanced techniques used by Dr. Vigo, your blepharoplasty may be safely and effectively performed in the office under local anesthesia, with the expectation that you would be able to return to work within a week.

Am I a good candidate for blepharoplasty dubai?
If you have excess lower eyelid skin and/or puffy bags around the eyes, you may be an excellent candidate for blepharoplasty. The best candidates for this procedure are healthy patients who do not smoke and do not have any serious eye conditions.

What happens during the initial consultation for blepharoplasty dubai?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Chung will discuss your concerns about your eyes: are you concerned by the amount of loose skin? Does the texture of your skin bother you? Do you have puffy bags under your eyes? Do your friends and loved ones say that you “look tired?” Dr. Vigo will also carefully evaluate your medical history, noting any prior history of eyelid surgery, dry eyes, or the use of blood thinners. He will also pay special attention to the surrounding anatomic structures such as the upper eyelids, cheeks, as well as the strength of the lower eyelid muscles.

What happens during the blepharoplasty dubai procedure?
Typically, your lower eyelid surgery may be performed in the office under local anesthesia. The procedure takes approximately one to two hours, depending on the type of procedure performed. You may take an oral medication to help you relax during the blepharoplasty, and all patients need a ride home after the procedure.

Dr. Vigo is skilled in all types of blepharoplasty procedures. For most patients, an incision is made on the skin just below the lash line. This allows excess, wrinkly skin to be removed. For others, the incision for the eyelid surgery may be placed on the inside of the lower lid. This procedure, called transconjunctival blepharoplasty, is best for those patients who only need fat removed and/or repositioned. Ultimately, the decision regarding which procedure will provide you with the best results will be made after careful evaluation and discussion, carefully considering your goals and personal preferences.

During the procedure, Dr. Vigo will measure and draw out the planned incision using a special surgical marking pen. The skin is then cleansed with an antiseptic. Local anesthetic will be placed carefully in the eyelid skin. An incision is made just below the lash line and a conservative amount of excess skin is removed. Any fatty bags may also be removed or repositioned. Dr. Vigo never removes too much fat, as he does not want your eyes to appear hollowed. Bleeding is usually quite minimal. All incisions are closed with tiny, meticulously placed stitches. An antibiotic ointment is then applied to the incisions.

Blepharoplasty Dubai

Cosmetic Clinic Dubai | 24 January 2020

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment is a procedure for correcting a number of skin conditions, including acne scarring, by using the healing properties of a patient’s own blood. Also known as the ‘vampire facial’, PRP has become popular through its promotion by celebrity figures as a less-invasive alternative to laser and surgical treatments. It is most effective when combined with other skin rejuvenation treatments, such as micro-needling.

How does PRP acne scar treatment work?

In PRP treatment, we inject a concentrated solution of platelets taken from your blood, into the affected area of skin. Platelets are a natural component of blood, essential to the process of healing and growth of new skin tissue, particularly collagen and elastin. When your own platelet-rich blood is injected back into your skin, it stimulates this healing process and helps your skin to repair the damage caused by acne scarring.

What happens during treatment?

At the start of the PRP procedure, we draw a small amount of blood from your arm. The amount of blood drawn depends on the type of treatment you are having, and with acne scarring, the number of scars you are having treated. We then put the blood into a centrifuge, which separates the platelets from the white and red blood cells. This part of the process takes just a few minutes. Finally, we inject the platelet-rich serum into the areas of your face with the acne scarring. The whole procedure itself is relatively simple and quick, usually taking only about 30 minutes. There is no downtime associated with PRP, and you can carry on with your day immediately afterwards.

Are there any side effects?

Because the PRP injections use your own blood to naturally rejuvenate your skin, the risk of allergic reaction is almost non-existent.

While there is no downtime from the procedure, you may have some swelling and bruising at the site of the injection. We can apply a cool compress to the treated area immediately after the treatment to help minimise this. The needles we use are very fine and the injection itself should not cause you any pain.

How long do the results last?

The results of PRP treatment for acne scarring become evident in the 3 to 4 weeks following each session. Your body needs this time to heal itself naturally, as it generates new and healthy skin tissue and the scarring starts to fade.

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 22 January 2020

Blepharoplasty comes from the Greek words blepheron, meaning eyelid, and plassein, meaning to form. It essentially refers to the reshaping of the eyelids and is used to describe plastic surgery to the eyelids. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty primarily involves removal of excess skin but this can be combined with a range of other procedures including refashioning of the upper eyelid skin crease or reshaping the upper eyelid fat. A thorough consultation with an experienced surgeon is therefore essential to determine which procedures best suit an individual’s eyes and concerns.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty does require a cut to be made along the length of the upper eyelid but this is well hidden in the skin crease making it almost invisible to most onlookers. Occasionally it may have to extend outward into a crow’s foot line.

The incisions in upper eyelid blepharoplasty can either be made with a blade or a cutting laser. There are advantages and disadvantages to both techniques and which is used is largely a question of the surgeon’s preference.

Various methods are used to close the wounds during upper eyelid blepharoplasty. Most commonly permanent sutures, such as nylon or prolene, are used to close the skin as these cause the least skin reaction. Sometimes, absorbable sutures, such as vicryl, are used for deeper stitching, and alternative substances, like tissue glue, can be used to close wounds. The choice of sutures does depend on the type of surgery you are having and your surgeon’s preference.

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed under local anaesthetic only (with the patient completely awake and an injection into the eyelids); under local anaesthetic with sedation (the patient is awake but is given something to make them feel very relaxed); or sometimes under full general anesthetic with the patient asleep. Local anaesthetic of some sort is preferable to general anaesthetic as the recovery is faster and the patient is able to open and close their eyes, allowing a better assessment of the upper eyelid contour and skin fold. Surgery to both upper eyelids usually takes between 60-90 minutes depending on what is being done. The surgery is usually performed as a daycase operation.

Recovery from the procedure usually takes two weeks. During the first week both eyelids will appear swollen and bruised, and are likely to feel stiff and itchy. By the end of the first week when the sutures have come out, the eyelids feel much more comfortable and the swelling and bruising is greatly reduced. By the end of the second week most patients feel ready to face the world without sunglasses on.

Most patients are very happy with the results of upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery. In general, the surgery lasts several years and does not need repeating. However, the eyelids and face do continue to age throughout a person’s life, and, depending on an individual’s aging process and their preferences, some people do chose to have additional upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery later on in their life. This does not usually pose any problems if performed appropriately.

Benefits of upper eyelid blepharoplasty

Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a very successful procedure with a high level of patient satisfaction. To quote William Shakespeare: “The eyes are the windows to your soul” and the facial feature that we pay most attention to. This is confirmed in modern society by the fact that the most popular cosmetic procedure is a blepharoplasty. Tattler Beauty and Cosmetic Surgery Guide recommended “ if you only have one anti-ageing operation, an eyelid lift is the one to choose”. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is usually performed to increases the amount of upper eyelid visible (termed the upper eyelid “show”) and to get rid of hooding. This lightens the eyes and makes them appear bigger, which in turn makes the face look more refreshed, more open and more youthful.