Creepy Eyelid Skin: Don't Turn to Eyelid Surgery Just Yet

 

Skin around the eyes that resembles crepe paper is a common occurrence in aging men and women. Depleting collagen stores are to blame. While some retinol creams can help to add moisture, a visit with a plastic surgeon with advanced training in facial aesthetics can provide superior, lasting results.

If thoughts of eyelid surgery have you shivering in fear, relax. Chemical peels and laser resurfacing treatments are often better solutions for crepey skin around the eyes. An eyelid lift is most beneficial when the skin and muscle are starting to sag.

A Brief Anatomy of the Eyelid 

The role of the eyelid is to protect the eyes from excessive light and injury. At the same time, the eyelids help to distribute moisture over the cornea. The top of the eyelid is the visible skin, but below that skin is subcutaneous tissue and muscle. Within the tissue is collagen that helps keep the skin plump and youthful-looking.

Comparing Laser Resurfacing, Chemical Peels and Ulthera

A chemical peel involves the application of a chemical solution over the problem skin around the eyes. There are different solutions ranging from light to deep. A light peel removes the outer layer of the skin to reveal fresher, younger skin below. A deeper peel removes wrinkles. The procedure starts with a thorough cleaning of the face and then protective measures are taken to keep the solution from getting into the eyes. Once the peel has been on the skin for the correct amount of time, the solution is removed. Most people need a day to two weeks to recover depending on the depth of the peel.

Laser resurfacing is a little trickier. It is a process in which the laser ablates the upper skin layers. Complications may include deep burns which can lead to scarring or hypopigmentation, so it is essential to choose a plastic surgeon who is skilled in laser resurfacing. With a qualified plastic surgeon, the treatment revitalizes the skin's texture and color.

Lastly, Ulthera with a 1.5mm depth can make very nice improvements in the lower eyelid.  This FDA-approved, non-surgical, non-invasive procedure uses ultrasound energy to tighten loose skin. The procedure takes just 60 to 90 minutes in the office setting and there is no downtime.

When is Eyelid Surgery Recommended? 

As collagen stores deplete and skin loses elasticity, the skin starts to sag and wrinkle. Skin that resembles crepe paper is one of the common signs of aging. On the eyelids, that upper eyelid skin may sag so much that it obstructs vision. When the eyelids obstruct vision, clearly you need to see a plastic surgeon. Crepey skin alone doesn't require an eyelid lift, but if the skin is sagging and making you look or feel older while also making it hard to see, surgery is the better option.

The Lowdown on Eyelid Surgery 

During an eyelid surgery, incisions are made in the natural creases or eyelash line on your upper and/or lower eyelid. Once the skin is tightened and the excess fat is removed or reshaped, the incisions are sewn or glued shut, depending on your surgeon's preferences. Ointment is placed in the eyes to keep them lubricated.

For the next week, your eye may feel dry and itchy. Bruising and swelling is normal, too. You can minimize the swelling by keeping your head elevated while resting and using ice packs. You'll be back to light activities within three days. Stitches are removed within the first week. You'll be back to strenuous activities after four weeks.

View the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery's video on laser skin resurfacing. Your eyelid needs could be as quick and easy as a non-surgical procedure. Talk to Dr. Robert Kessler to discuss your concerns over crepe paper eyelids and discuss if non-surgical treatments are right for you. Call the Newport Beach plastic surgeon at (949) 644-6544.