Thermage or surgery for more upper eyelid space?

I'm 23 years old and I would like more upper eyelid space and definition in my eyebrows. Would I be an ideal candidate for Thermage or would I have to turn to surgery?

Sort: Date | Helpful
10 answers to “Thermage or surgery for more upper...”

A: Thermage is not going to create more upper eyelid space.

William Portuese, MD

Thermage is not going to create more upper eyelid space. If more definition of the upper eyelids is desired, upper blepharoplasty can be performed. Depending upon the amount of skin, the excess skin, muscle and fat in the upper lid could be all addressed at the time of the blepharoplasty to get a nice... more

A: Surgery

Christopher L. Hess, MD

I apologize to all those plastic surgeons who bought Thermage but they know as well as I that it doens't work. In fact I've had offers from several that wanted to sell me their Thermage divices. So with that said talk to your surgeon about a brow lift with or without an eyelid lift.

A: Too young for these ideas!

Richard P. Rand, MD

At 23, you are FAR too young to be thinking about invasive and potentially injurious plastic surgery procedures and you sound too critical of yourself. Just use great sun protection and take care of your skin and enjoy your youth and be kind to yourself!

A: Pennylane in your eyes

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Pennylane, You are far too young to consider eyelid or browlift surgery unless you have some form of congenital deformity. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to see if there is a way to achieve your goals without being too invasive. Good luck!

A: Thermage offers minimal results

Richard Gentile, MD

I would not expect significant changes in facial characteristics from a Thermage treatment. Other minimally invasive techiques like Botox can change facial proportions,, but are temporary. Eyelid surgery can be effective, but you should be 100% committed to this path and be sure you interests are not just a... more

A: It is best to post pictures with questions like this

David Shafer, MD

We would love to give you our expert advice. However, without pictures, it is hard to give you any specific advice. I would not suggest Thermage on the eyelid - if that is what you are asking. You are fairly young for eyelid surgery. You might want to consider Botox Cosmetic in the lateral canthal / crow's... more

A: Be careful about pursuing these options

Patrick Byrne, MD

I have not been very impressed with the results of Thermage in general. It may be effective in some patients; but it is, at best, highly variable. You are quite young to pursue treatment to this area. We will, on occasion, treat young patients with browlifts -- typically in a minimally invasive fashion. This... more

A: You may be too young for any procedure.

George J. Beraka, MD

Hi!  Very hard to advise you not knowing what you look like.  I am a big fan of Thermage for the jaw line, the abdomen, and the thighs.  I think it is less effective around the eyes. And I have never done cosmetic eyelid or eyebrow surgery on someone as young as you.  So be careful.

A: Thermage should not be used on the eyelids

Brooke R. Seckel, MD

Thermage is a radiofrequency skin tightening device, and in my opinion is not safe to use on the thin eyelid skin. I worry that the radiofrequency energy could penetrate the thin eyelid skin and injure the tissues beneath the eyelid. Even if Thermage was safe to use, it will not affect the eyelid space. Lack... more

A: No to Thermage on upper eyelids

Robert M. Freund, MD

You are young and looking to change the shape of your upper eyelids. I assume that your eyebrows are a little low. A good starting point may be as easy as an expert aesthetician to tweeze your eyebrows into a nicer shape. That shape as defined in an article I wrote in the mid 90's, should be an arched eyebrow... more

Post your question

Thermage before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.