Male Blepharoplasty
Dr. Anureet Bajaj Specializes in Male Blepharoplasty
Male eyelid surgery differs from eyelid surgery for women. The goal of male eyelid surgery is to create a natural-looking, masculine appearance and not overly excise the skin which can feminize the eyes. Dr. Anureet Bajaj specializes in this male-specific procedure, giving men the opportunity to enhance their eyes without appearing to have had surgery.
What Is Male Eyelid Surgery?
Male eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure dedicated to improving the looks and vibrancy of men’s eyes. The principles are similar between eyelid surgery on both men and women, but there are some subtle differences. The contour and shape of men’s eyelids and eyebrows differ from women; male eyelid skin tends to be thicker, and the muscles heavier.
Dr. Bajaj understands that these differences, although subtle, are significant enough to deem a procedure specifically for men.
Good Candidates for Male Eyelid Surgery
Male eyelid surgery patients should be in good health. The ideal candidates are men who experience sagging upper eyelids, wrinkles or deep creases around the eye, under eye bags or puffiness, and/or excess drooping lower eyelid skin. These conditions make men look older than their true age and appear tired. Drooping eyelids can also be a physical hindrance, blocking eyesight. While some men may want this procedure to fix physical hindrances, others may just desire a cosmetic enhancement.
No matter the case, male eyelid surgery can restore men’s eyes to amore youthful, alert, vibrant state.
Male Eyelid Surgery Consultation
During your one-on-one private consultation with Dr. Bajaj, your concerns you have with the appearance of your eyes and your aesthetic wishes will be discussed, as well as your medical history. Dr. Bajaj will perform a detailed examination of your eyes and will be able to determine the best techniques to reach your goals. It is important to note that patients should have realistic expectations of what this surgery can accomplish. Results will vary between patients as each patient undergoes a technique that is tailored to their needs. Eyelid surgery also does not address discoloration of the skin.
Conditions Addressed by Eyelid Surgery
Ptosis is a term used to describe drooping upper eyelids. Muscles not functioning properly can cause the upper lids to droop, occasionally impairing vision. Ptosis can occur in one or both eyes. Typically, ptosis occurs with age as the muscle attachments begin to weaken. However, it can be congenital, or present from birth. If so, it is highly recommended to address it at an early age because the muscles may not fully develop and cause lasting vision problems.
Ectropion and entropion are terms used to refer to the positioning of the lower eyelids. Ectropion is when the lower eyelid pulls outward. When this happens, it leaves the white portion of the globe (eye) underneath the iris exposed and unprotected. This most commonly happens with aging, but it can occur from trauma, stroke, or prior surgeries.
Entropion is when the lower eyelid flips inward and rubs against the eye. With this condition, the eye can become irritated and red, creating sensitivity to light and wind. Scratched corneas or infection can develop from entropion and can result in permanent damage to the eye. Entropion can occur from birth, aging, or trauma.
Double eyelid surgery is a popular technique used to create a crease in the eyelid for those who lack one. This procedure is commonly performed on patients of Asian descent. The crease made in the eyelid divides it into two segments, creating a more Caucasian appearance.
Surgery Preparation
Certain medical tests and evaluations need to be completed prior to your surgery; these may include a vision test and tear production test. All antibiotics and medications prescribed by Dr. Bajaj will need to be filled before your surgery, so you have them readily available afterwards. Refrain from smoking, drinking alcohol, anti-inflammatory medications, and herbal supplements for the month leading up to your procedure.
You will need to arrange for a family member or friend to drive you following surgery. Stock your home with plenty of ice packs or ice cubes, gauze, and clean washcloths for your recovery. You will also want to make sure you have extra pillows at home to keep your head elevated. Plan on taking at least a few days off from work after your procedure.
Male Eyelid Surgery Procedure
There are different techniques that can be applied to enhance the appearance of your eyes. During your consultation you will discuss with Dr. Bajaj, She will determine the appropriate technique that will provide you with optimal results.
Upper Eyelid Technique
To enhance the upper eyes, an incision in the natural crease of the upper eyelid will be made. This allows for excess skin and tissue to be removed as necessary to achieve desired results. This leave an inconspicuous scar that fades and blends with time. Sometimes men desire a fuller looking upper eye, in which case fat can be added to certain parts of the eyelid to create a pleasing contour. Fine sutures are used to close eyelid incisions.
Lower Eyelid Techniques
To create rejuvenated lower eyelids, an incision can be made inside the eyelid, called transconjunctival, or near the lash line, called subciliary. Subciliary is typically used for drooping under eye skin, while transconjunctival is good for removing fat bulges. During the lower eyelid surgery, fat, tissue, muscle, and skin are either removed or repositioned. The incisions are closed with fine sutures.
Recovery After Eyelid Surgery
Recovery varies between patients, but typically after male eyelid surgery some degree of swelling and bruising is normal and will subside with time. You will be given instructions on how to keep your incisions clean and prevent dry eyes. Vision may be slightly blurred for a few days as well as some sensitivity to light, but it will resolve on its own Sunglasses can be worn to help in the immediate postoperative period. Head elevation is recommended to help the healing process and decrease swelling. Cold compresses can help alleviate discomfort, and pain medication can be prescribed if necessary.
Sutures are removed at your postoperative visit, generally five to seven days after your procedure, and in some cases self-absorbing sutures are used which do not require removal. Your follow-up appointment will serve as an opportunity for Dr. Bajaj to assess your healing progress and make any adjustments if necessary. This procedure cannot fight against the normal aging process which may involve skin losing elasticity over time. However, after male eyelid surgery, you will lose that tired appearance of your eyes.