When it comes to plastic surgery, it may seem very straightforward as to which procedure is right for you. However, this is not always the case. Everyone is different, and the best procedure is not always obvious without the expert help of a board certified plastic surgeon. Aging in the eye and forehead areas, for example, is sometimes related and may be improved with either a blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or brow lift. If you are considering facial plastic surgery to make yourself look more awake, alert, and youthful, then you may need to figure out whether a brow lift or upper blepharoplasty is the right procedure.
How It Works
The brow has a heavy influence on the resting facial expression in the aging face. As skin begins to sag over the eyebrows, it can lend a heavy, tired expression to the eyes and face overall, even if aging around the eyes is relatively minor. Drooping upper eyelids can also influence this expression, which is why some people see more improvement with a brow lift, while others benefit from blepharoplasty. A refreshed appearance can increase confidence, self-esteem, and improve initial impressions others form.
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty is a cosmetic eyelid surgery that involves the tightening of the skin in the eyelids, as well as the repositioning and conservative removal of skin and fat. Facial volume loss continues over time, so a skilled plastic surgeon will try to preserve as much of the eyelid as possible. The procedure varies greatly depending on how in-depth the procedure will be, so anesthesia needs and recovery time are different depending on the needs of the patient.
Brow Lift
There are many different types of brow lift techniques that can be used, depending on how much elevation is desired, where the incision must be placed, and so on. The gentlest technique is an endoscopic brow lift, which utilizes a small camera to access the brow through tiny incisions, tightening and rejuvenating the forehead. Again, the specifics of brow lift surgery and recovery depend greatly on the needs of the individual patient.
Combining the Procedures
In some cases, combining blepharoplasty and brow lift is the best course of action for getting the desired results. Modern cosmetic surgery is safe enough that healthy patients should have no problems undergoing multiple procedures at once, particularly if the surgeries are straightforward and the techniques gentle. Naturally, the cost of a combination procedure is higher, but the comprehensive results are often worth the increased costs. Recovery might take slightly longer, but is generally not much worse than for a standalone surgery.
Choosing Your Procedure
Only someone who is an expert in facial anatomy and aesthetics can give you specific advice about your treatment options. The best way to choose your procedure is to speak with an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon who can give you beautiful, natural results to suit your needs. Consultations with prospective surgeons will allow you to explore your options, ask questions, and get to know potential surgeons. You will also have your candidacy for surgery assessed, and you may get the opportunity to see a digital preview of your results. While this preview will just be an approximation of your results, it will give you an idea of what you might expect from each procedure.
Choosing Your Surgeon
Do not skimp on your research when choosing the plastic surgeon to perform your surgery. He or she should have impeccable qualifications, including board certification, as well as a great deal of experience. You will need to be able to trust your plastic surgeon completely, so never move forward with a procedure unless you feel completely comfortable with your doctor. Your plastic surgeon will be the biggest factor in the success of your procedure, so you should seek out the best.
If you are looking for a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon in the Boston area, come to Bentkover Facial Plastic Surgery in Worcester (508-363-6500) or Stoneham (617-247-0033), MA, and meet with acclaimed, board certified specialist Dr. Stuart Bentkover. Dr. Bentkover is an anti-aging expert and would be happy to help you find the procedure that is right for you. Call either location today to schedule your consultation.