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Hooded Eyelid Reduction Surgery: Everything You Need To Know

Understand blepharoplasty approaches and costs around the world

Blepharoplasty cost in Turkey
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Your eyes are the most striking feature of your face, yet they also reveal the first signs of ageing. The delicate skin around your eyelids often develops fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging, resulting in droopy eyelids. Also known as ptosis, a droopy eyelid is typically harmless and treatable in most cases. Ageing and genetics both play a role in these changes, prompting many to seek cosmetic solutions.

According to Maximize Market Research, the eyelid surgery market was valued at $4.3 million in 2022, with an impressive projected growth of $7.9 million by 2029. Supporting this trend, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) also ranked eyelid surgery among the top five cosmetic procedures in the US. This is evidenced by the positive outcomes experienced by notable celebrities like George Clooney, Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, and Catherine Zeta-Jones, among others, who have undergone successful eyelid surgeries.

In this article, we’ll explore common questions and concerns of patients about hooded eyes and cosmetic procedures.

Why do droopy eyelids develop?

Drooping eyelids result from excess skin hanging over the eyelid crease, often giving the appearance of tiredness, although this isn’t always the case. It can come from various factors, such as congenital conditions, ageing, or due to nerve damage affecting eyelid muscle control.

Sometimes, drooping eyelids can pose a medical concern, particularly if they hinder vision or exert pressure on the eye. In these situations, people might look into getting hooded eyelid surgery.

Surgical vs non-surgical approaches for hooded eyelids

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure that addresses both cosmetic and functional concerns related to the eyelids, resulting in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. Detailed on Dr. Anthony Bared’s website, one of Miami’s top facial plastic surgeons, the procedure involves making small incisions along the natural creases of the eyelids to minimise visible scarring. Excess skin and fat tissue are then removed, and the remaining skin is tightened and stitched up.

However, if you don’t want to go under the knife, there are non-surgical approaches available to treat hooded eyes, also called nonsurgical blepharoplasty. Among them are:

Botox: Also known as botulinum toxin, is a protein that temporarily reduces muscle activity, effectively lifting drooping eyelids and creating a more alert appearance. It is injected directly into the muscles responsible for eyelid movement, inducing muscle relaxation and leading to eyelid elevation. The procedure typically only takes a few minutes but requires touch-up injections every 4 to 6 months for maintenance.

Dermal fillers: These are injectable substances designed to plump the skin, effectively reducing wrinkles. This quick procedure takes minutes to complete, with no recovery time needed. Although mild side effects like redness may occur, additional injections are necessary to sustain results over time.

Eye Drops: Upneeq (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) stands out as one of the initial prescription eye drops developed to address select cases of ptosis, which helps in muscle tightening.

Ptosis crutch: For those who do not require or prefer surgery, ptosis crutches are the best alternative to treating temporary hooded eyes. These specialised eyeglasses come with attachments, known as “crutches,” designed to support the upper eyelid.

What is the best age for eyelid surgery?

Determining the appropriate age for hooded eyelid surgery involves several factors:

Health Assessment: Surgeons need to carefully evaluate a patient’s health to make informed decisions, tailor the surgical approach, and minimise risks, thereby ensuring optimal outcomes.

Aesthetic Expectations: Open communication about aesthetic objectives enables surgeons to customise the procedure to manage unique needs, whether it involves addressing signs of ageing or enhancing symmetry.

Lifestyle: Lifestyle choices such as smoking and skincare practises can impact the success and longevity of surgery results. Smoking, for instance, can hinder healing, while maintaining a healthy routine can help preserve the benefits of the procedure over time.

With that in mind, there is no set age for blepharoplasty. Facial Plastic Surgery Center, Youthful Reflections posted that while the common age for procedures occurs after 55, younger individuals-even in their 20s and 30s that are dissatisfied with their eyelids may also consider surgery to improve their overall health and look.

What are the common side effects?

Common side effects of eyelid surgery, like any surgical procedure, should be carefully considered. According to Manchester Private Hospital, potential side effects include temporary blurred vision, scarring, sensitive and irritated eyes, eye muscle injury, and difficulty closing the eyes at night in the first few days post-procedure. Although these side effects are generally temporary, it’s essential to be aware of them and discuss them with your surgeon.

Choosing the best blepharoplasty clinics and surgeons can help alleviate concerns and ensure a smoother recovery. Board-certified oculoplastic surgeons or facial plastic surgeons with extensive experience in blepharoplasty are ideal choices for achieving optimal results and minimizing risks.

What is the recovery time after blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty recovery time differs for each person. According to Mayo Clinic, patients commonly experience bruising and swelling, typically subsiding within 10 to 14 days. Upper eyelid surgery scars are concealed within the eyelid’s natural fold, while lower eyelid surgery scars are hidden beneath the lower eyelid.

Patients can generally return to work after one week and are advised to avoid exercise for around 3-4 weeks after the procedure.

Cost of eyelid blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery costs vary across countries such as the UK, USA, Mexico and Turkey, influenced by factors like procedure type, surgeon expertise, and clinic location.

Blepharoplasty cost in London

According to leading private clinics in London, blepharoplasty costs range from £3,500 to £6,000, depending on whether the procedure is for the upper or lower eyelids, or if it’s unilateral or bilateral. A combination of upper and lower blepharoplasty can start from £9,000 in some clinics.

Blepharoplasty cost in New York

In New York, the average cost for upper blepharoplasty starts at $10,000, excluding additional expenses such as anesthesia and facility fees.

Blepharoplasty cost in Mexico

In Mexico, the average cost for eyelid blepharoplasty is around $2,400 for only upper or lower eyelids. This excludes medical tourism add-ons such as hotel and transfers.

Blepharoplasty cost in Turkey

Meanwhile, Turkey, a popular medical tourism destination, offers cost-effective options for upper eyelid surgery, with packages starting from around €2,500.

It’s important to place your trust in qualified and experienced surgeons. Board-certified oculoplastic surgeons or facial plastic surgeons are the most sought-after for blepharoplasty. Their understanding of your goals, coupled with their expertise, will ensure you establish realistic expectations and ultimately achieve the desired results.

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