What is the minimum amount of skin that can be removed in an upper eyelid surgey?

Question

Only skin, not muscle nor fat. I have noticed a different aspect in my face due to very sutle sagging skin, but to me it makes a big difference.

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

If you are noticing a change in your eyelids, then you should not be worried about the minimum amount of skin that can be removed.  You would be surprised by the amount of skin that can be removed and have the results still appear subtle.  If you are noticing that your upper lids are hooding, you are probably looking at a minimum of 5 mm of skin that can be removed and even your friends are unlikely to know you had anything done.  They may just comment that you look refreshed or ask if you have been working out.  I would hazard to guess that you want a nice, natural result.  You should see surgeon who is well respected in your area and meet with him/her for a consultation to define your goals and have them suggest to you the best way to achieve them.  Often times, there is a little fat that will also need to be removed to really give you the result that you want, so I would suggest going in with an open mind about what might be necessary to give you the results you want.  Best of luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

A very small amount of skin can be removed to be sure.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA.............

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Skin removal for correction of the upper eyelids depends on the patients desires and the eyelid anatomy. In most cases, very little skin is removed in order to make a big difference in the appearance of the eyelid. One of the biggest problems in the results of this surgery is removing too much skin and fat. This will lead to an over operated appearance with a hallowing out of the upper eyelid. Youthfulness has fullness and a distinct upper eyelid fold. Your photos look very good.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

You can take off a very small amount of skin with a bleph.  The question is is it worth doing a  surgery for something so minor.  This is a discussion and decision you will have to have with your surgeon.

John R. Burroughs, MD · Answer

I have removed as little as a few millimeters that was causing an extra fold that was aesthetically bothersome.  The amount removed varies at different parts of the upper eyelid (e.g., inner vs middle vs outer eyelid).  It is very crucial how much is left as in many patients having less than 20-25 mm between the eyelid margin and the brow can lead to trouble with eye closure and dry eyes.  Too much removal can also cause significant brow descent that may not look good after surgery.  You need to be more concerned with finding a surgeon with good qualifications, word of mouth, and reviews.

Jane Olver, MBBS, FRCS · Answer

A small slither of skin such as 4 to 6 mm can help reduce an excessive upper eyelid skin fold and look very natural. Usually the underlying muscle need not be removed if the amount is tiny. However, all surgery is risky and even removing an minimal amount of skin carries the risk of bruise, swelling, infection, redness and scar. The most common indication for a minimal skin removal is to alter the lid crease height and improve symmetry between the two eyes.Usually the question is "what is the maximum that can be removed" rather than minimum. If you are worried about a small excess upper eyelid skin fold, it may be due to relative eyebrow descent, and you should consider selective Botox to lift he eyebrows up a little and open up the eyes..

Emily J. Kirby, MD · Answer

The amount of skin removed during a blepharoplasty, or upper eyelid surgery, is not as important as what is left behind!  Measurements are made on your specific eyelids to determine the correct amount of tissue to be removed.  Many patients have small asymmetries that can be corrected at the time of surgery as well.A board certified plastic surgeon will also be able to assess the position of your eyebrows, which may be contributing to "droop" of the upper eyelids.  Blepharoplasty performed with even a small amount of tissue removed can be very effective.  Best of luck to you!

Mark Edinburg, MBBCH, FRACS (retired) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.You know, it is not about the amount that can be removed, but whether this is the correct option for you.Once I is an appropriate treatment, then you can discuss with your Plastic Surgeon that you are concerned about too much being taken out.In my practice, almost all patients have this concern- everyone wants to look better, and less tired, and are also worried about looking 'over corrected'. Easy to understand this concern. And it is one I discuss with each patient.So, my suggestion is: talk to a Plastic Surgeon. Listen to his/her recommendations, and voice your questions and concerns. Photos of his previous patients may also help you. A face-to-face consult gives you the opportunity to meet the Plastic Surgeon, and for him to meet you. This way you can both listen to, and discuss with, each other.

What is the minimum amount of skin that can be removed in an upper eyelid surgey?

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