This question arises very frequently when patients are looking to enhance the ocular region. These procedures address different issues. For patients who just have extra or redundant upper lid skin and puffiness a blepharoplasty would be the correct procedure. For patients who have "heavy" brows which have descended from there normal position a brow lift would be the appropriate procedure. Many patients have both a "heavy" descending brow and redundant skin and need both procedures done to obtain the best results. It is important that your surgeon address both these issues at the time of your evaluation in order to determine which procedures would benefit you the most.
Both dissolving and non dissolving sutures can cause irritation. I find that the dissolving sutures tend to cause more redness and swelling. If you are having redness and irritation at 9 days and the sutures are still in place your doctor may want to remove them. Usually sutures can be removed 5-7 days after upper eyelid surgery.
Botox works on wrinkles that are caused by muscle movement. It is excellent for reducing wrinkles in the glabellar area, forehead and crows feet. It can also reduce wrinkles in the neck area, around the mouth and chin area. It is important to have an experienced surgeon perform the botox injections.
Sometimes insurance companies will cover upper lid blepharoplasty. Each insurance company will have different criteria for coverage. If the excess skin hangs over the lids and blocks the superior vision insurance may cover it. Your doctor will need to do a visual field test to determine if there is a superior visual field defect. The insurance company may also require photos of the lids.
You do need a prescription for Latisse. Any doctor can write a prescription for it. I would recommend that you see an ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon and have a complete eye exam before starting Latisse.
