Eyelid lift for droopy eyelids

The area around the eyes often reveals more about our well-being than any other facial feature. However, over the years, sagging skin, drooping eyelids, or bags under the eyes can make our gaze appear heavy and alter our expression. Eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) This can help. In the Plastic Surgery Zurich explained Prof. Dr. med. Hisham Fansa, Chief Physician and Head of Plastic Surgery Zurich, explains why this procedure is so frequently requested – and what makes it an effective, yet very precise treatment.

A Eyelid liftEyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a minor but effective surgical procedure. Excess skin, muscle, or fat tissue on the upper or lower eyelid is removed or repositioned. The result: a more open, alert look – without unnaturally altering the face.

Over the years, the skin over all the muscles in the body loses elasticity. This is particularly noticeable on the face. Excess skin develops on the upper eyelids, hanging over the natural crease – commonly known as "drooping eyelids." This excess skin weighs heavily on the eyelid, making the eyes appear tired and worn out. Some people report feeling heavy in their eyelids in the evening. In addition to the excess skin, the eye muscles and connective tissue can also weaken, and the fat from the eye socket can bulge forward. On the upper eyelid, this is often seen towards the nose. The fat that bulges forward on the lower eyelid is what is commonly referred to as "bags under the eyes." The muscles and connective tissue weaken, and the fat is pushed forward. This leads to a worn-out and tired appearance. Smoking, lack of sleep, and alcohol exacerbate this effect.

The tear trough also becomes more pronounced on the lower eyelid with age. This is a band that separates the eye from the cheekbone. In youth, this band is less visible because the cheek has not yet sagged and the fatty tissue from the eye socket has not yet pushed forward.

As plastic surgeons, we can remove excess skin and also remove or redistribute excess fatty tissue that is pushing forward. Particularly in the lower eyelid, fatty tissue can be used to improve the transition between the eye and the cheekbone.

Excess skin on the upper eyelid or bags under the eyes can be significantly improved. If there is elevated intraocular pressure, frequent conjunctivitis, or watery eyes, these should be checked beforehand to ensure a smooth recovery after the surgery.

I enjoy the need for precision. We operate with magnifying glasses, fine instruments, and suture with extremely fine threads that are barely visible. The skin of the eyelids and the eye itself are very sensitive. Surgery must be meticulous; after all, the result is permanent. That's what I love about facial surgery. Experience and precise technique come together here – we're practically "surgical watchmakers."

I once had an older patient who, after having her upper and lower eyelids tightened, brought her daughter along so I could operate on her too. That's a lovely compliment for our work.

I always believe that cosmetic surgery should only be undertaken if you are truly convinced it's right for you. You shouldn't let yourself be pressured – neither by your partner nor by the doctor. In the hands of experienced plastic surgeons, the procedure is low-risk and delivers excellent results.