Having blepharoplasty involves small changes but big results. However, the procedure does involve incisions and invasive techniques. As such, scars are inevitable. But the important question is: how visible are eyelid surgery scars? Will people see your results or anything else?
How Visible Are Eyelid Surgery Scars?
Any surgery with incisions will result in scarring. This is simply how the body repairs tissues for specific types of wounds. However, the difference between scars and visible scars is a big one. With eyelid surgery, your scars should not be visible. In fact, only your results should shine through.
Upper Eyelid
With upper eyelid surgery, incisions are typically placed within the eyelid’s natural creases and folds. Furthermore, a skilled surgeon will absolutely minimize incision size. Smaller incisions means smaller scars.
While you may be able to see the scar if you look, others should be oblivious. Especially when your eyes are open, your scar should not be visible at all. With your eyelids closed, the scar may be slightly visible, depending on placement.
Lower Eyelid
Lower eyelid surgery is even better. With this procedure, a skilled surgeon can usually make the incision inside the eyelid. This approach ensures no scar visibility at all! Keep in mind that this approach might not work for all procedure plans. Even when exterior incisions are needed, they are placed similarly to those of upper eyelid surgery. We hide them.
Scar Visibility Factors
Incision Size and Placement
Your surgeon should always make the smallest incision required. Even an extra millimeter can make a huge difference for an area like the eyelids. Likewise, careful placement sits at the center of visibility. Well-placed incisions should hide within the eyelid’s structures.
Surgeon Skill
An experienced surgeon will make higher-quality incisions. In turn, this means less damage to the eyelid’s tissues, which improves healing. Likewise, the right surgeon will know precisely where to place incisions to minimize their visibility. Surgeon skill also influences the efficacy of their follow-up and patient support. So it’s best to work with a doctor and staff who are ready to go that extra mile for you.
Aftercare
Scars are part of the healing process, so this period is critical for patients. Your surgeon should provide clear, concise, and essential instructions for your entire recovery process. This includes:
- Tips for aftercare
- Things to avoid
- Ways to improve scarring
Scars Improve Over Time
It is a misconception that scars are fully permanent. While the size and severity of a scar are factors, most scars will improve over time. In some cases, minor scars will be largely resolved within several years.
Of course, lifestyle factors will influence this. Habits like smoking only get in the way of healing. Other elements to consider include:
- Diet and nutrition
- Hydration
- Sun exposure
- Alcohol consumption
Scar Reducing Treatments
If you have continued concern about post-procedure scarring, you still have options. Nonsurgical treatments allow patients to further reduce scarring in some cases. Keep in mind the delicate nature of the eyelids. So only a skilled specialist should perform any of these treatments.
Most commonly, patients use laser treatments. The good news: such treatments can also help prolong your eyelid surgery results. Laser treatments improve scars, but they also rejuvenate your skin overall. Key benefits can include improvements like smoothed wrinkles and tighter tissues.
The Premier Eyelid Surgeon for Tampa
Patient safety and outcomes are Dr. Kwitko’s top priorities as a leading eyelid surgeon. Call today to set up your consultation with Tampa’s top eyelid specialist. Let people see your results and your results only. Not your scars.
