The aging process presents lots of changes, some more welcome than others. For many, a telltale sign of time’s constant march is the subtle shift of their eyelids — sound familiar?
What was once a firm curtain above your windows to the world begins to sag and may even obscure your view. The good news is you have options for reversing your droopy lids.
Frederick H. Watkins, MD, is a leading plastic surgeon in and around McLean, Virginia, and Rockville, Maryland. His unique style and personable approach make him one of the most sought-after surgeons in the region, especially for delicate eyelid surgeries.
Here’s what Dr. Watkins wants you to know about droopy lids.
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging or drooping eyelids. When considering this intervention, the first step is education, one of Dr. Watkins’ favorite topics. He can help you familiarize yourself with the procedure and its potential to transform your look and outlook.
The primary goal of eyelid surgery is to rejuvenate the area surrounding your eyes. Dr. Watkins removes or repositions excess skin, muscle, and fat through a series of skillfully executed incisions. The result is a brighter, more alert gaze that projects vigor and vitality.
Skilled hands are crucial in delicate eyelid surgeries. Dr. Watkins’ precision and artistry set the stage for a successful outcome. He has a keen eye for symmetry, the touch of a craftsman, and years of experience so that he can sculpt the contours of your eyelids safely and successfully.
With age comes wisdom — and a few unwelcome changes. The structure of your eyelids succumbs to the relentless pull of gravity over time. Skin loses elasticity, the muscles supporting it weaken, and the fatty deposits around your eyes redistribute, often not in the most flattering way.
Aging eyelids undergo many complex changes beneath the surface. For example, the orbicularis oculi muscles, responsible for blinking and squinting, weaken, and the levator muscles that elevate your upper eyelids lose strength, eventually bowing to the force of gravity — ptosis.
Eyelid surgery can address self-esteem, function, or both. The most obvious advantage is the improvement in the aesthetic appearance of your eyes. By removing excess tissue, Dr. Watkins restores your eyelids’ youthful tautness.
If ptosis hinders your field of vision, eyelid surgery may improve your ability to see.
The completion is the beginning of a new phase in your life. Post-surgery, expect a period of downtime. Swelling and bruising are par for the course but temporary. A combination of rest, cold compresses, and proper care can help manage these symptoms and accelerate recovery.
Your results emerge gradually. The reshaped tissue settles into its new position, and with each passing day, your rejuvenated eyes reveal a clearer, crisper vision.
It’s natural to have reservations — and even fears — about eyelid surgery, but rest assured you’re in good hands with Dr. Watkins. Like any medical intervention, there are risks to weigh, and Dr. Watkins explains them to you thoroughly.
From temporary discomfort to the possibility of minor complications, he ensures you’re well-versed in the ins and outs. Honesty is key to any successful doctor-patient relationship, and you can trust him to provide realistic expectations and comprehensive risk assessments.
To learn more about blepharoplasty for droopy eyelids and whether you’re a good candidate, request a consultation with Dr. Watkins online or call our location most convenient to you today.
