Although you might feel that your eyes have become smaller, differently shaped, and even look old, it is actually not your eyes that have changed, but the area of your face that frames them – the peri-orbital region. These changes are due to three aspects of the ageing process – volume loss, loss of skin elasticity and muscle hyperactivity.
Indications for surgery
As part of the normal ageing process, eyelids stretch, and the supporting muscles weaken. Not all patients are suited for this type of surgery. As part of the normal ageing process, eyelids stretch, and the supporting muscles weaken. Excess fat and skin may, therefore, gather above and below your eyelids, causing sagging eyebrows, drooping upper eyelids and bags under your eyes.
This makes you look older and tired and, in the case of severely sagging skin around the eyes, could impair your vision (ptosis). Some of these features can be improved during a surgical procedure called blepharoplasty by surgically removing excess skin, muscle and fat. A blepharoplasty can be performed together with a facelift or other facial surgery.
Suitable patients
Patients undergoing any cosmetic surgery procedure should be healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in their expectations.
Blepharoplasty surgery must be tailored to each patient, depending on their concerns and the condition of their eyelids. Your plastic surgeon will discuss a surgical plan which meets your specific needs.
You could consider this surgical procedure if:
- Excess tissue keeps your eyes from opening completely
- You have baggy or puffy upper eyelids
- You have excess skin on your lower eyelids
The following cannot be corrected/removed or improved by a blepharoplasty procedure:
- Crow’s feet lines and other wrinkles around the eyes
- Dark circles under or around the eyes
- Sagging eyebrows
- Deep hollows under the eyes
These problems can be corrected by brow lifts, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, fat grafting or anti-wrinkle injectables.
The blepharoplasty procedure will not stop your eyes from ageing. The results of this surgery are therefore not permanent, but definitely long-lasting.
About the author
M.B.Ch.B; M.Med. (Plast&Reconstr) (Stell)
Dr Dèhan is a respected Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon known for his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to patient care. With a compassionate and hands-on approach, he supports his patients throughout their surgical journey. His expertise spans both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, with a particular focus on facial procedures, breast surgery, abdominoplasty, and liposuction.
Dr Dèhan’s experience in treating traumatic injuries, including hand injuries, burns, and lacerations, in children and adults alike. His practice also integrates skin cancer surgery, supported by a dedicated team of nurses, healthcare professionals, and a Skincare Diagnostic Technician.
He completed his medical studies at the University of Stellenbosch and Cape Town Medical School, followed by a prestigious fellowship in Paris under Dr Francoise Firmin, where he specialised in cosmetic surgery and ear reconstruction. Further training across Europe and the U.S. has enriched his practice with global insights into patient care and management.