Signs of aging around the eye area can be the earliest and most bothersome. If you struggle with drooping brows, eyelid wrinkles, or undereye bags, you may benefit from a surgical procedure. Brow lifts and blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) address the eye area in different ways, making it important to understand your goals and expectations.
What is the Difference Between a Brow Lift and Blepharoplasty?
A brow lift and an eyelid lift or blepharoplasty are different procedures that treat different concerns. A brow lift addresses the brow and forehead area, lifting the skin and underlying structures to restore your natural brow arch and smooth forehead. An eyelid lift addresses drooping eyelids, undereye bags, and eyelid wrinkles.
People typically choose a brow lift when they are bothered by forehead wrinkles and brows that sag over the eyes. They choose an eyelid lift when they are concerned with the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids. These procedures can be performed together to provide full rejuvenation and lift of the eyes, brows, and forehead.
How Does a Brow Lift Work?
A brow lift can be performed in several ways. The most commonly used technique is an endoscopic brow lift. This procedure uses small incisions that allow Dr. Farole to insert small tools. He uses these tools to lift and reposition the skin and supporting layers with minimal disruption of the surrounding tissues. Some people may require a larger incision, depending on how much loose skin they have.
How Does a Blepharoplasty Work?
Blepharoplasty can be performed on the upper, lower, or both eyelids. The upper eyelid lift usually addresses wrinkled, sagging skin that droops over the eyes. The lower eyelid lift treats puffiness and drooping under the eyes for a tighter, smoother appearance. Blepharoplasty incisions are made in eyelid creases or inside the lower eyelid. Dr. Farole will tighten skin and muscles. He will also remove or reposition fat pads to reduce the appearance of puffiness.
What is Recovery Like After a Brow Lift or Blepharoplasty?
Most people can return to work five to seven days after a brow lift. You may have some swelling or bruising, but with endoscopic surgery, these effects are usually minimal. You will immediately see lifted brows and a smoother forehead. Residual swelling can last up to six months.
After blepharoplasty, you can usually return to work in two to three days. However, you may have some swelling and bruising around your eyes for several weeks. Full recovery can take several months, but a refreshed eye area can be seen within days.
After both procedures, you will be instructed to limit strenuous activities for several weeks and provided with detailed aftercare instructions. Each person’s recovery experience will differ depending on the type of procedure and their natural healing abilities.
Dr. Anthony Farole is the best. I came in very scared and afraid. Dr. Farole and his wonderful staff were very patient with me and helped calm me down. They reassured me that i would be fine and took very good care of me. I felt no pain and the procedure went very smooth. Thank you so much for a job well done!
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in learning more about brow lifts or blepharoplasty? Schedule a consultation at Dr. Farole’s Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center in Bala Cynwyd, PA by giving us a call at (610) 668-3300 today.
