Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, helps refresh the eyes by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the muscle. A common concern is whether this procedure leaves noticeable scars. While all surgeries leave some scarring, eyelid surgery is known for minimal, well-hidden incisions. This blog covers how selecting a skilled facial plastic surgeon and following post-operative care instructions can help minimize the appearance of eyelid surgery scars.
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Where Are Blepharoplasty Incisions Made?
The location of blepharoplasty incisions depends on whether you’re having upper or lower eyelid surgery.
Upper Eyelid Surgery: For upper eyelid surgery, your facial plastic surgeon makes the incision in the natural crease of the eyelid. This hides the scar so well that it’s nearly invisible once healed.
Lower Eyelid Surgery: There are two possible incision locations for lower eyelid surgery:
- Just below the lash line: This external incision is subtle and heals well with proper aftercare.
- Inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach): This method leaves no external scar and is best for removing or repositioning excess fat without removing skin.
The Importance of Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation
A consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. David Butler is crucial for achieving the best results. During your initial meeting, Dr. Butler will evaluate several factors that impact the appearance of your eyes and the effectiveness of the procedure:
- Brow Position and Contour: A low or sagging brow can create the illusion of excess upper eyelid skin. Addressing the brow with a forehead lift or an Endotine® brow lift may be necessary for optimal results.
- Symmetry and Facial Structure: The structure around your eye socket, including whether your eyes are deep-set or prominent, will influence your personalized surgical plan.
- Skin Quality and Elasticity: Your skin’s health plays a role in how well it heals and how noticeable scars may be.
How to Care for Blepharoplasty Scars
Taking care of your skin after surgery helps reduce visible scarring. Here are key steps to follow:
Keep Incision Sites Clean
Gently clean your incisions as instructed by your facial plastic surgeon. This prevents infection and promotes smooth healing. Use a mild cleanser or saline solution to gently remove any buildup.
Moisturize
Keeping the skin hydrated helps improve healing and reduces the risk of excessive scarring. Use an approved post-operative ointment as directed. Hydrated skin heals more efficiently and helps scars fade faster.
Use Scar Care Products
Silicone-based gels and sheets can help scars heal more effectively and fade faster. Vitamin E and aloe vera are also known for their skin-healing properties. Ask your surgeon for recommendations on skincare products tailored to your skin type.
Avoid Rubbing or Pulling at Incisions
It’s important to let the incisions heal without unnecessary tension. Avoid excessive eye movements, rubbing, or pulling at the skin, which can widen scars or slow healing.
Can I Minimize Visible Scarring?
Yes! While some scarring is inevitable, the following practices can significantly reduce scar visibility:
- Follow post-operative instructions carefully to avoid complications.
- Topical scar creams or dressings are used to hasten disappearance of incisions
- Avoid sun exposure, as UV rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Wearing sunglasses and using sunscreen on healed skin can help protect against hyperpigmentation.
- Refrain from smoking, as it can slow healing and worsen scarring. Smoking restricts blood flow, which is essential for proper tissue repair.
- Be patient, as scars continue to fade for several months to a year after surgery. The healing process varies for each patient, but with time, most scars become virtually unnoticeable.
- Consider laser treatments or microneedling, which can help improve scar appearance if necessary.
Interested in Eyelid Surgery in Santa Monica?
If you are considering eyelid surgery, choosing an experienced surgeon is key to achieving the best results possible. Dr. Butler is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon specializing in blepharoplasty. With advanced techniques and personalized care, he ensures natural-looking results with minimal scarring.Schedule an eyelid surgery consultation today by calling (310) 428-0033 or visiting our contact page.